Lead Plant Operator

NRG•Rockford, IL

9d•$103,664 - $155,496•Onsite

About The Position

Welcome to the intersection of energy and home services. At NRG, we’re all about propelling the next generation of leaders forward. We are driven by our passion to create a smarter, cleaner and more connected future. We deliver innovative solutions that make our customers’ lives easier—helping them power, protect, and intelligently manage their homes and businesses. To do this, we need creative and talented people to join our company. We offer a dynamic work environment and a unified and inclusive culture. NRG fosters a strong sense of belonging that leads to better collaboration and business performance. Our company programs are designed to help employees develop the skills they need for success now and in the future. In everything we do, we aim to champion our employees and bring value to our customers, investors and society. More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X. Job Summary Rockford Generation is seeking an experienced Senior Operations and Maintenance Technician with a minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining simple cycle natural gas power plants. The ideal candidate will possess direct, demonstrated experience with the Siemens V84.3A2 combustion turbine platform. In this senior role, the technician will serve as a key technical resource for the management team — planning and executing maintenance activities, training plant operators (including remote operations), covering shifts as needed, and acting as the primary on-call contact for plant issues. This position also carries primary responsibility for the station's SAP activities including purchase requisitions, inventory management and preventative maintenance program.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
7+ years of direct experience in operations and/or maintenance of simple cycle natural gas power plants.
Demonstrated hands-on experience with the Siemens V84.3A2 combustion turbine platform is required.
Proficiency in mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation systems related to combustion turbine power generation.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, P&IDs, schematics, and OEM documentation.
Strong knowledge of hazards associated with natural gas power generation and the safety precautions required for safe plant operations.
Adherence to all safety practices, procedures, and site security requirements at all times.
Proficient in remote operations technology and procedures; able to operate and troubleshoot plant systems from off-site.
Skilled in using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and operational data systems.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office and technical reporting tools.
Basic math skills and strong verbal communication skills; proficient with power and precision tools.
Ability to work independently without direct supervision and cooperatively across cross-functional teams.
Willingness and availability to respond to plant calls outside of normal working hours.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or certification in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or related field a plus.
Military technical training or equivalent industrial experience strongly valued.
Familiarity with NERC reliability standards is a plus.

Responsibilities

Monitor, operate, and maintain all equipment associated with natural gas simple cycle power plant operations, with specific expertise on Siemens V84.3A2 turbine T3000 DCS platforms.
Execute startup, shutdown, and routine operational procedures for combustion turbine systems in accordance with OEM guidelines and plant procedures.
Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues promptly to minimize downtime and maintain unit availability.
Serve as the primary on-call contact for plant staff — available during off-hours and expected to be the first call when issues arise at the facility.
Ensure the continued development of the NRG Generation box, safety over production and environment over production philosophies.
Work collaboratively with plant management and operators to achieve plant goals and the safe operation of the units.
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on combustion turbine and auxiliary equipment, ensuring maximum efficiency and reliability.
Conduct routine inspections and calibration of machinery to meet operational and OEM standards.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and OEM manuals specific to the Siemens V84.3A2 platform.
Hands-on experience with pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, fuel systems, turbine control and FM200 fire protection systems.
Assist management team with outage planning, scheduling, and procurement of parts and services.
Collaborate with engineering teams for equipment upgrades, modifications, and life extension activities.
Train and mentor plant operators in safe, efficient, and compliant operating practices for combustion turbine systems.
Develop and deliver training on individual systems at the facility to expand operator knowledge.
Provide technical guidance and subject matter expertise to support the management team.
Follow strict safety protocols and environmental regulations to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal standards.
Serve as the station's primary SAP leader responsible for activities including purchase requisitions, inventory management and preventative maintenance program NERC compliance contact for the station; maintain program documentation and ensure all applicable NERC reliability standards are met.
Participate in safety drills, hazard assessments, and emergency response procedures.
Maintain accurate documentation of operating logs, maintenance records, safety inspections, and compliance reports.