Plant Operator Lead

Virginia Tech•Blacksburg, VA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to a Power Plant Operator Shift Supervisor, the Plant Operator Lead will assist the supervisor in setting work priorities, assigning work, and overseeing daily operations or special projects. Additionally, the Lead will provide input to the supervisor for employee evaluation and training, document work performed in the Facilities Work Order System, and optimize the use of personnel. The Lead will also perform the duties of the Power Plant Shift Supervisor in their absence. Key operational duties include operating coal, gas, and oil-fired boilers, related plant equipment, and air pollution control equipment. The role also involves performing preventative maintenance on plant equipment, water handling and testing (including demineralizer regeneration, condensate polishers, and domestic softeners), operating loader and coal delivery/storage systems, and operating steam turbine generators and auxiliary equipment. Routine cleaning and housekeeping duties are also part of the role.

Requirements

Considerable experience as a Power Plant or Boiler Operator.
Strong mechanical experience.
Experience providing preventative maintenance to plant/boiler or related equipment.
Experience performing water analysis and softener regeneration procedures.
Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to plan, schedule and direct the work of others.
American Society of Power Engineers Power Plant Engineer 1st Class (PO1) or equivalent or the ability to obtain within 18 months.
Computer proficient to be able to use a computer based work order system.
Ability to interpret instructions and complete assignments as part of a team.
Ability to operate bucket loader.
Ability to operate coal storage and delivery systems.
Strong communication skills, with a proven record of providing excellent customer service, and the ability to interact with a diverse University Community.
Ability to safely and frequently move and handle heavy objects weighing 50 pounds or more; climb and work from elevated work stations such as ladders and scaffolds; climb steps and ladders up to four stories; work for long periods of time standing, sitting, walking, reaching, bending, crouching and/or kneeling, pushing/pulling and working in confined spaces, in extreme heat and dusty environments.
Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.
Ability to work shift work.
This position is designated as “Emergency Personnel.”
Must be available as situations warrant for response to after hours and weekend calls.
Ability to report to work within one hour in emergency situations.

Nice To Haves

Previous supervisory experience.
Experience working in higher education or institutional setting.
Turbine operation experience.
American Society of Power Engineers Power Plant Chief (PPC) license or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Provide input to supervisor for evaluation and training of employees.
Document work performed in the Facilities Work Order System.
Optimize use of personnel.
Perform the duties of the Power Plant Shift Supervisor in their absence.
Operate coal, gas, oil fired boilers, and related plant equipment.
Operate air pollution control equipment.
Perform preventative maintenance on plant equipment including lubrication as required.
Perform water handling and testing including regeneration of demineralizers, condensate polishers, and domestic softeners.
Operate loader and coal delivery/storage systems as required.
Operate steam turbine generator and auxiliary equipment.
Perform routine cleaning/housekeeping duties.