Auxiliary Plant Operator

NAES•Sparks, NV

18h•$37 - $46•Onsite

About The Position

The Auxiliary Plant Operator supports safe, reliable, and efficient operations at the Western 102 Power Station and Solar Plant by operating and monitoring plant systems and equipment in the field. This position performs equipment inspections, operational testing, minor maintenance, equipment isolation, and troubleshooting while supporting plant startup, shutdown, and normal and emergency operations. Working closely with the Control Room Operator (CRO) and Maintenance, the Auxiliary Plant Operator identifies abnormal conditions and takes appropriate corrective action to maintain safe and reliable generation.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Demonstrated experience in power generation, industrial operations, maintenance, or a related technical environment involving mechanical and electrical equipment.
Commitment to safe work practices with knowledge of applicable OSHA, NFPA, environmental, hazardous-material, and Lockout/Tagout requirements.
Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

Nice To Haves

An Associate degree in Power Plant Technology, Engineering, Process Technology, or a related technical field is preferred.
Practical familiarity with reciprocating engines, internal combustion generating equipment, or comparable industrial machinery is preferred; experience with Wärtsilä 34SG or similar gas engines is a plus.
Working knowledge of plant auxiliary systems such as fuel gas, compressed air, starting air, engine cooling, lubrication, ventilation, pumps, valves, and associated mechanical equipment is desirable.
Basic understanding of electrical systems, electrical theory, generators, plant distribution equipment, and safe work practices around energized or high-voltage equipment.
Exposure to water treatment, chemical handling, environmental monitoring, or related plant processes is preferred.
Ability to read and interpret operating procedures, technical manuals, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), electrical drawings, and other plant documentation.
Familiarity with solar photovoltaic systems or associated electrical equipment is beneficial but not required.

Responsibilities

Support the startup, shutdown, and routine operation of Wärtsilä 34SG generating units, auxiliary systems, and associated plant equipment in accordance with established procedures.
Operate and monitor auxiliary systems and equipment, including fuel gas, starting air, compressed air, engine cooling, lubrication, ventilation, water treatment, electrical distribution, and other locally controlled mechanical and electrical systems.
Conduct routine equipment rounds, operational tests, inspections, and diagnostics; identify abnormal conditions and complete minor repairs or adjustments to maintain proper operating conditions.
Coordinate with the Control Room Operator (CRO) to operate equipment from local or isolated panels, place equipment in or out of service, and perform clearing, tagging, testing, equipment isolation, and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) activities.
Monitor plant environmental and emissions control equipment and assist with sampling, chemical handling, and other environmental compliance activities in accordance with plant and regulatory requirements.
Maintain accurate operating logs, equipment records, readings, and other required documentation, including support for the preparation and administration of equipment Tag Outs.
Identify and report abnormal or irregular operating conditions to the CRO and take appropriate corrective action within established procedures to protect personnel, equipment, and plant reliability.
Provide support to Maintenance personnel during maintenance activities and outages, including equipment identification, troubleshooting, work request preparation, LOTO, preventive and corrective maintenance, and minor mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation repairs.
Utilize the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document equipment deficiencies and maintenance activities, initiate work requests, order materials, and support parts and inventory management.
Assist with operation and routine monitoring of the site's solar photovoltaic system and associated electrical equipment as assigned.
Participate in NAES Safety and Regulatory Compliance Programs and perform additional duties as assigned.