Operator, Plant

BHE (Berkshire Hathaway Energy)•Yerington, NV

About The Position

The Plant Operator supports the efficient, cost-effective production of electric energy by operating and controlling power plant equipment. The role monitors instrumentation and plant conditions, takes action to keep operations within prescribed limits, and responds promptly to abnormal conditions. Duties include inspecting, maintaining, and repairing equipment; operating and monitoring turbines, generators, water treatment equipment, and plant auxiliary equipment; and maintaining personnel and equipment safety and environmental compliance standards. The operator coordinates with system dispatchers regarding load, voltage, frequency, and switching requirements; adjusts and synchronizes generating equipment to system conditions; and maintains daily operating, dispatcher and trouble-call, and visitor records. The role also maintains an orderly control room and work area, completes shift turnover, and conveys relevant plant and system conditions to relief staff. Operators may support overhaul crews during shutdowns or emergencies, perform plant operations and auxiliary-equipment inspections, and carry out basic maintenance after training. They may also direct daily operating assignments and assist with schedules, planning, project activities, and job-related reports. Employees perform tasks for which they are trained and can work competently and safely. Additional operator and maintenance qualifications must be achieved in accordance with training standards. Candidates must pass an oral or written examination or performance test covering the qualifications described in the posting.

Requirements

At least two years of related mechanical, electrical, or instrumentation and controls experience in an industrial process, electric utility, mining, propulsion, chemical, or heavy construction setting.
In addition to the experience requirement, one or more of the following: an associate of science degree in a technical field from an accredited institution; relevant military experience; ISA CCST certification; ISA CIMM or CMRT documentation; documented journeyman accreditation; or a combination of relevant experience, skills, and education.
Achieve additional operator and maintenance qualifications in accordance with training standards.
Pass an oral or written examination or performance test covering the stated qualifications.
Be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

Responsibilities

Operate and control power plant equipment to support efficient, cost-effective electric energy production.
Monitor instrumentation and plant conditions, maintain operation within prescribed limits, and respond promptly to abnormal conditions or requirements.
Inspect, perform preventative maintenance on, and repair plant equipment.
Assist in developing, defining, and training staff on operations policies and procedures.
Operate and monitor turbines, generators, water treatment equipment, and plant auxiliary equipment.
Maintain personnel and equipment safety and environmental compliance standards and practices.
Coordinate with system dispatchers on load, voltage, frequency, and switching requirements; adjust controls and synchronize generating equipment as needed.
Maintain daily logs, records of dispatcher and trouble calls, and visitor records.
Keep the control room, work area, equipment, and panels clean and orderly.
Complete shift turnover and fully inform relief staff about current and preceding plant and system operating conditions.
Participate in overhaul work during plant shutdowns or emergencies when necessary.
Perform plant operations, inspect and operate auxiliary equipment, and become familiar with equipment trip functions and testing as directed.
Supplement maintenance by performing basic maintenance duties after training.
As required, direct daily operating work assignments and assist with schedules, planning, project activities, and job-related reports.
Perform all tasks for which properly trained and able to work competently and safely.