Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Technician

NAES • Berkeley, CA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Berkeley Cogeneration Plant, which provides electricity and steam to the University of California, Berkeley campus. This role operates and maintains the LM2500PJ gas turbine, steam turbines, auxiliary boilers, and supporting plant systems. The technician performs startups, shutdowns, inspections, and minor repairs while following safety procedures and maintaining accurate operating records to support continuous plant operation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Hands-on power generation background operating and maintaining gas turbines, steam turbines, auxiliary boilers, and combined-cycle or cogeneration plant systems.
• Journeyman-level knowledge of plant operations and mechanical systems, including startup, shutdown, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical equipment.
• Practical experience disassembling, repairing, and reassembling plant equipment, including pumps, valves, and turbine-generators, with working knowledge of electronic and microprocessor-based systems.
• Technical understanding of gas and steam turbine operations, CEMS, electrical systems, process controls, P&IDs, and plant operating parameters.
• Skilled in interpreting and troubleshooting blueprints, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and other technical documentation while accurately documenting maintenance and operational activities.
• Thorough knowledge of safe work practices, including LOTO, OSHA requirements, and environmental compliance standards applicable to cogeneration and steam plant operations.
• Effective coordination with plant personnel, contractors, and vendors to support maintenance, outages, and operational activities.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, technical writing, and mathematical skills to effectively address operational and maintenance issues.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.
• Employees must remain mentally alert and work safely at all times.
• Employees must adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property.
• Employees are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures.
• All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.

Nice To Haves

• An associate degree in power plant technology, engineering, or a related technical field is preferred.
• Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of additional education.

Responsibilities

• Perform startup, shutdown, and routine operation of the LM2500PJ gas turbine, Terry letdown steam turbine, HRSG, auxiliary boilers, and supporting plant systems.
• Operate auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, reverse osmosis and cooling water systems, condensers, and locally controlled electrical and mechanical equipment.
• Monitor and record plant operating parameters, including temperature, vibration, pressure, operating hours, fluid levels, and other equipment conditions.
• Conduct routine inspections, operating tests, and preventive maintenance to identify abnormal conditions, lubrication needs, and developing equipment issues.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and perform minor corrective repairs on mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and control systems to minimize downtime.
• Prepare equipment for service and maintenance activities in accordance with operating procedures, LOTO requirements, and established safety practices.
• Complete preventive and corrective maintenance work orders and assist maintenance personnel during scheduled outages, repairs, and equipment restoration.
• Use the CMMS to document equipment conditions, work requests, completed maintenance, corrective actions, spare parts usage, and other required information.
• Test and adjust boiler and water-treatment chemistry to maintain established water-quality and operating standards.
• Maintain accurate operating logs and promptly communicate equipment abnormalities, operating concerns, and maintenance needs to appropriate plant personnel.
• Support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the cogeneration facility by performing additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager.

Benefits

• Eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED