Auxiliary Operator

Opportunity Summary

The Hopewell Power Station is a biomass facility situated in Hopewell, VA, with a capacity of 51 MW. It employs biomass‑fired power generation technology to produce electricity, which is sold to Dominion. By utilizing biomass as a fuel source, the Hopewell Power Station plays a crucial role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels while contributing to the generation of renewable energy.

• Assist with start-up, shutdown, and routine operations of biomass plant systems in accordance with established procedures and safety protocols.
• Operate and monitor key auxiliary systems such as biomass fuel conveyors, feed systems, ash handling equipment, air compressors, boiler feedwater systems, and emissions control systems (e.g., baghouse filters, SCR).
• Conduct routine inspections, diagnostics, and performance tests on assigned systems and components, and perform minor repairs or adjustments to ensure reliable operation.
• Carry out control room orders to prepare equipment for service or safely remove it from operation. Tasks include isolation, lockout/tagout, and ensuring all safety protocols are observed during clearances and handovers.
• Perform routine water chemistry analysis on boiler feedwater and condensate systems; operate emissions monitoring equipment to ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate and timely operating logs and shift reports in accordance with regulatory and company requirements; issue and approve Tag Outs when authorized.
• Identify and report abnormal or off-normal equipment or process conditions to the Control Room Operator (CRO), and support or take corrective actions as needed.
• Assist with mechanical and electrical maintenance activities including Lockout/Tagout support, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and maintenance request generation.
• Utilize a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document work performed, track system performance, and assist with work planning and material requisition.
• Operate heavy equipment to maintain fuel supply to the station in the event of a casualty to the automated dual feed system.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the control room or plant management in support of reliable and efficient plant operations.

Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees must also adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property. Additionally, they are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Adherence to these safety responsibilities is one of the key factors in the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

The Auxiliary Plant Operator reports to the Shift Supervisor and takes direction from plant management, as well as Control Room Operator depending on assigned duties.

Physical demands include standing for extended periods, climbing stairs and ladders, entering and exiting equipment cabs, and traversing uneven or elevated surfaces. The role requires routinely lifting up to 50 pounds and performing tasks from elevated platforms, walkways, or in confined spaces. Work may be performed in conditions involving dust, wood particles, fumes, high noise levels, and extreme temperatures near operating equipment.

Outdoor tasks in all weather conditions are required, including high‑heat environments adjacent to biomass processing systems. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory and may include hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, high‑visibility clothing, steel‑toe boots, flame‑resistant clothing (FRC), respirators, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions are enforced in and around the facility to ensure plant safety and environmental compliance.

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.

The Auxiliary Operator works a…