Power Plant Operator

NAES•Houston, TX

3d•$48 - $53•Onsite

About The Position

The Power Plant Operator supports the safe, reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of Channelview Cogeneration, an 851 MW combined-cycle power generation facility in Houston, Texas. The plant operates in a 4x1 configuration with Siemens 501F-D2 and 501F-D3 combustion turbines, Nooter/Eriksen heat recovery steam generators, and an Alstom steam turbine generator. Working under the direction of the Operations Supervisor and Control Room Operator, the operator monitors equipment, performs field rounds, operates plant systems, supports troubleshooting and maintenance, and assists with normal and emergency operations. The role includes maintaining water chemistry requirements, following established procedures, and completing site-specific Plant Operator and Head Operator qualifications. The position works rotating 12-hour shifts, alternating between days and nights to support continuous 24/7 operations. Extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, holidays, and possible callouts may be required. Work takes place in a power plant environment with physical demands and potential exposure to confined spaces, hazardous materials, fumes, extreme temperatures, high heat, noise, and outdoor weather. Required protective equipment may include hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame-resistant clothing, hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Employees must participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, including a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening. The position offers a base pay rate of $48 to $53 per hour and eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred; additional technical training or education in power plant operations is beneficial.
Experience as a plant operator or in a similar operational role within a power generation environment; combined-cycle facility experience is preferred.
Working knowledge of combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, transformers, switchgear, instrumentation, controls, protective relaying, water chemistry, and auxiliary systems.
Ability to interpret P&IDs, electrical and mechanical drawings, schematic diagrams, operating procedures, and technical manuals.
Proficiency with DCS, PLC, and plant information systems, including interpreting alarms, evaluating operating data, and recognizing abnormal conditions.
Demonstrated troubleshooting skills, including basic instrument calibration, equipment operation, use of hand and power tools, and evaluation of equipment performance.
Ability to interpret electrical and mechanical meter readings, perform basic flow and pressure calculations, and recommend corrective actions.
Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work independently, document equipment conditions, and coordinate with plant personnel, contractors, and vendors.
Valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license that remains in good standing.
Ability to meet the position’s physical demands, including standing for extended periods, climbing stairs and ladders, working at heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.
Ability to participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, including a post-offer physical examination and drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.
Ability to follow NAES safety rules and procedures and remain mentally alert while working safely.

Nice To Haves

Additional technical training or education in power plant operations.
Experience at a combined-cycle power generation facility.

Responsibilities

Operate gas turbines, steam turbines, HRSGs, generators, and auxiliary equipment during normal and emergency conditions.
Follow equipment clearance and Lockout/Tagout procedures, Job Safety Analyses, Work Authorizations, and applicable confined-space and hot-work permit requirements.
Monitor DCS and PLC systems, including Siemens T3000, Ovation, and Allen-Bradley platforms, to assess equipment status and identify abnormal conditions.
Align plant equipment, operate manual valves, and adjust plant systems as directed by the Control Room Operator or Operations Supervisor.
Collect and analyze HRSG water samples and adjust chemical feed as authorized to maintain water quality within specifications.
Interpret instrument readings, meters, gauges, and annunciator signals; record operating parameters, shift logs, equipment rounds, and inspection results.
Troubleshoot equipment and system malfunctions, assist with failure investigations, recommend corrective actions, and identify maintenance needs.
Prepare and review equipment work requests and assist maintenance personnel with inspections, repairs, preventive maintenance, and performance testing.
Support emergency response, equipment failure investigations, and activities involving abnormal plant conditions or operational incidents.
Complete site-specific Plant Operator qualifications within six months of hire and Head Operator qualifications within two years after completing Plant Operator qualifications.
Review and revise operating procedures and related documentation to support accurate and consistent plant operations.
Coordinate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, contractors, and vendors to communicate plant conditions and support operational priorities.
Assist with operator training and cross-training to develop personnel and maintain operational proficiency.
Monitor the off-loading of aqueous ammonia and other bulk chemicals in accordance with handling and environmental requirements.
Maintain clean and orderly work areas, identify hazards, and follow applicable safety, environmental, regulatory, and company requirements.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support safe, efficient, and reliable facility operations.