Cogeneration Operator

Cogeneration Operator

Experience: Mid Level

Salary: $44 - $61 per hour

We are seeking a Cogeneration Operator III to serve as the senior operator on shift within a 24/7 cogeneration facility. This individual will lead daily plant operations, direct junior operators, troubleshoot complex system issues, coordinate maintenance activities, and help ensure maximum reliability and uptime.

The ideal candidate brings hands‑on power generation experience, strong troubleshooting skills, and confidence to make operational decisions during both normal and emergency conditions.

• Operate gas engines, HRSG systems, chillers, emissions equipment, and plant auxiliaries
• Monitor plant performance using SCADA and local control systems
• Lead plant rounds and verify critical operating parameters
• Respond to alarms and abnormal operating conditions
• Execute operational adjustments to maintain safe and efficient plant performance

• Lead daily shift activities and direct Operators I and II
• Serve as senior operational authority during off‑hours
• Review and approve shift logs and operating reports
• Ensure effective communication during shift turnovers

• Diagnose mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and control issues
• Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions
• Identify opportunities to improve reliability and plant efficiency
• Support emissions compliance and performance optimization efforts

• Coordinate with maintenance personnel during planned and unplanned outages
• Manage lockout/tagout preparation and equipment isolation
• Support equipment restoration and startup activities
• Assist with predictive and preventive maintenance programs

• Lead safety walkdowns and reinforce operational discipline
• Ensure compliance with LOTO, confined space, hot work, and plant procedures
• Promote a strong culture of safety and accountability

• Mentor and train Operators I and II
• Support knowledge transfer and skills development
• Help build operational excellence across the shift team

• High School Diploma or GED
• 4+ years of experience in:

• Cogeneration
• CHP Facilities
• Power Generation
• Industrial Utilities
• Central Plant Operations

• Previous shift leadership experience
• Advanced troubleshooting skills across:

• Mechanical systems
• Electrical systems
• Controls and instrumentation

• Experience operating major gas engine platforms such as:

• Jenbacher
• Caterpillar
• Waukesha

• Strong understanding of emissions control systems
• Ability to make sound operational decisions during emergencies

• Associate Degree or Technical Certification
• Trade School Training
• Advanced Power Generation Training
• Experience in mission-critical facilities

We operate a mission‑critical cogeneration facility that provides reliable energy through advanced gas engine generation, heat recovery systems, emissions controls, chillers, and supporting utility infrastructure. Our operation runs 24/7 and depends on skilled operators who can think independently, solve complex problems, and maintain the highest standards of safety and reliability.

• Earn $48‑60/hr with overtime opportunities
• Senior‑level operator role with leadership responsibilities
• Work with advanced power generation and CHP systems
• Highly autonomous position with real operational impact
• Stable critical infrastructure environment
• Strong safety‑first culture
• Opportunity to mentor and develop junior operators
• Exposure to advanced controls, emissions systems, and plant optimization
• Career path into Operations Leadership and Plant Management