Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician

NAES•Houston, TX

2d•$45 - $54•Onsite

About The Position

The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician ensures reliable and efficient operation of the Tejas Energy Center’s simple-cycle combustion turbines and mechanical systems. Responsibilities include startup, shutdown, monitoring, and inspection of LM6000 PC and Siemens 501 D5 gas turbines, along with operation of evaporative cooling, water injection, and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. The technician performs mechanical troubleshooting, minor repairs, and preventive maintenance while adhering to safety and environmental standards. Working with maintenance teams and using the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), the technician supports equipment reliability and plant performance within the Houston Zone of ERCOT.

Requirements

Ability to understand procedures and instructions related to the assigned area, typically acquired through four years of high school. An Associate degree in power plant technology, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education.
Proven track record in technician roles within power generation, with hands-on experience operating and maintaining simple-cycle combustion turbines and auxiliary systems.
Demonstrated expertise in journeyman-level operations and mechanical systems, including startup, shutdown, routine operations, troubleshooting, and repair of mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems, as well as disassembly and reassembly of components such as pumps, valves, and turbine-generator equipment.
Theoretical and practical knowledge of gas turbine operations, Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, electrical distribution equipment, piping and instrumentation schematics, process controls, and inspection/recording of plant parameters.
Skilled in interpreting and troubleshooting complex technical documentation, including blueprints, P&IDs, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams, while maintaining thorough maintenance records to support regulatory compliance and equipment reliability.
Comprehensive understanding of safety protocols, including Lock-Out-Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures, OSHA requirements, confined space entry, and environmental compliance standards applicable to gas-fired generation.
Ability to collaborate and coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams, contractors, and vendors to optimize resources, support plant reliability, and ensure timely completion of maintenance activities.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with demonstrated proficiency in technical writing, clear communication, and the mathematical aptitude needed to evaluate operational data and mechanical performance.
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, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education.

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor LM6000 and Siemens 501 D5 gas turbines and auxiliary systems, including LP Sprint, Inlet Chilling, and Ammonia Injection skids, ensuring performance within prescribed limits.
Perform safe, efficient start-up and shutdown of turbine generators and balance-of-plant systems in accordance with operational protocols.
Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize Allen-Bradley PLC and SCADA systems for effective control, alarm response, and equipment diagnostics.
Perform walkdowns using P&IDs and F&IDs to verify system operation and resolve equipment issues.
Conduct inspections, operating tests, and routine maintenance to ensure proper functioning and prevent mechanical or operational problems.
Monitor and record key parameters such as temperature, vibration, pressure, and fluid levels to verify optimal equipment performance.
Inspect and listen to equipment regularly to detect abnormal sounds, leaks, or vibration, taking corrective action to maintain integrity.
Diagnose and repair minor mechanical issues and assist in major maintenance activities to minimize downtime and maintain reliability.
Operate and maintain plant tools and equipment—including vehicles, cranes, hoists, welding, and cutting tools—using proper safety techniques.
Safely perform switching, isolation, and tagging of mechanical and electrical systems under lead supervision.
Forecast, track, and reorder spare parts to ensure equipment availability; assist with inventories and documentation.
Maintain logs, maintenance records, preventive/predictive maintenance documents, equipment files, and system diagrams.
Maintain plant manuals, technical references, prints, and other documentation to support accurate maintenance and operations.
Ensure all activities comply with OSHA standards, environmental regulations, and plant-specific safety protocols.
Participate in training sessions and emergency response drills to maintain safety and mechanical readiness.
Collaborate with team members and contractors to support reliable plant operation and maintenance.
Complete other tasks and projects as assigned by the Plant Manager or designee.