Control Room Operator (CRO)

NAES•Faribault, MN

16h•$49 - $55•Onsite

About The Position

The Control Room Operator ensures the efficient and safe operation of plant equipment, including turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems, by managing start-up, operation, and shutdown processes in compliance with safety and operational standards. This role involves proactive monitoring, precise control, and detailed record-keeping while fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. The operator will troubleshoot, optimize plant performance, and address abnormalities, ensuring reliable operations and effective collaboration with the team, including managing the MRS remote site as needed.

Requirements

Ability to understand procedures and instructions related to the assigned area, typically acquired through four years of high school.
Must currently hold and maintain a valid Minnesota First Class Grade A (1-A) Boiler Operator License, or be able to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
Experience in power plant operations with a focus on control room operations and system monitoring.
Experience in water chemistry control, including analysis of water conditions, operation of water treatment systems, and safe handling of chemicals.
Theoretical and practical understanding of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, hazardous waste handling, and the monitoring and recording of plant parameters. Knowledge of turbine generators, combustion turbines, HRSGs, and associated systems.
Ability to read and interpret DCS logic, supporting effective plant operation and troubleshooting.
Consistent adherence to safety and environmental procedures, with a commitment to maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations.
Strong verbal and written communication skills to ensure accurate documentation and clear communication with supervisors and team members.
Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver’s license and maintain it in good standing.

Nice To Haves

An Associate degree in power plant technology, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred.
Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of education on a year-for-year basis.
Experience with combined cycle large-frame gas turbine power plants is preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform start-up, operation, and shutdown of all equipment, including turbine generators, by operating control panels to regulate HRSG and turbine load, steam temperature and pressure, feedwater, fuel supply, and combustion conditions, in compliance with safety and operational standards.
Operate and monitor combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems by reading monitors, meters, gauges, and control systems to verify conditions such as temperatures, pressures, flow rates, vibration, levels, emissions, and equipment status.
Actively support NAES Safety, Environmental, and Regulatory Compliance Programs and promote a strong safety culture.
Maintain personal accountability for safety by following all company safety and environmental rules, policies, and procedures.
Accurately complete and maintain daily logs and plant records, including output, emissions, fuel and water use, and heat rates. Ensure logs reflect all relevant readings and control actions.
Periodically review logs to verify tag-out procedures, equipment status, and administrative systems. Approve and issue Lockout/Tagouts as needed.
Maintain plant manuals, technical references, drawings, and maintenance records as required.
Report equipment abnormalities and plant issues to the Lead Control Room Operator. Promptly address upset conditions and perform emergency operations to maintain service and protect equipment.
Monitor equipment performance and respond to alarms, coordinating with team members. Direct Auxiliary Operators to adjust plant conditions or chemistry as needed.
Support training and development to enhance operational competency.
Conduct thorough shift handovers by clearly presenting plant status and concerns to incoming staff.
Maintain proficiency in plant operations and monitor systems to anticipate issues.
Assist in troubleshooting and diagnosing technical problems with the team.
Help manage upset conditions, including containment, control, and corrective action.
Assist with maintenance activities during normal operations and outages, supporting Lockout/Tagout, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and work request documentation.
Operate, monitor, and perform routine checks on the MRS remote site, ensuring proper functioning of all systems and equipment, and responding to any issues or alarms as needed.
Ensure seamless integration between the main facility and the MRS remote site, including remote troubleshooting and coordination with on-site personnel when required.
Perform additional reasonable tasks as assigned by the Lead Control Room Operator or plant management, as needed. Respond to instructions and requests from dispatchers to ensure proper coordination and compliance.