Power Plant Utility Operator

The North Tonawanda Cogeneration facility, located in North Tonawanda, NY, is a 55-megawatt combined-cycle cogeneration plant. It features one GE Frame 6 gas turbine generator, one HRSG (Heat Recovery Steam Generator), and one GE steam turbine generator, all supported by a diverse array of essential auxiliary equipment. This facility not only ensures efficient and reliable power generation but also serves as a vital source of electricity for the surrounding area, contributing to the region's energy needs.

Opportunity Summary

The Power Plant Utility Operator at the North Tonawanda Cogeneration facility is responsible for participating in a training program to become a qualified Auxiliary Plant Operator. This role involves performing shift operations and maintenance activities, including the startup and shutdown of plant components, as well as conducting routine plant tours to ensure equipment is operating properly—all while prioritizing safety. Additionally, the Utility Operator assists with chemical handling and equipment switching, maintains housekeeping standards, and performs preventive maintenance.

The Utility Operator also collaborates with team members and departments to support the facility’s operational goals, working under established procedures and occasionally addressing complex situations.

Your scope of responsibility as Power Plant Utility Operator includes the following primary functions:

• Participate in the training program and work toward qualification as an Auxiliary Plant Operator at the North Tonawanda Cogeneration facility.
• Demonstrate continued improvement in proficiency while working toward full qualification, developing familiarity with the plant’s combined-cycle systems, and supporting auxiliary equipment.
• Follow established and well-documented procedures under general supervision.
• Perform all station shift operations and maintenance, including start-up and shutdown of the main gas turbine, steam turbine, HRSG, and critical auxiliary systems.
• Conduct routine plant tours to inspect equipment and provide feedback to the Control Room Operator and other personnel.
• Perform equipment switching and tagging in accordance with approved procedures and sound operational practices.
• Conduct routine preventive and predictive maintenance on all plant systems and equipment; assist with corrective maintenance tasks when properly trained or supervised.
• Assist with the safe and accurate offloading of bulk chemicals used in plant operations.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards throughout the facility to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Comply with all site safety requirements and procedures; identify and address safety hazards promptly.
• Communicate effectively with site personnel and company staff at other locations to coordinate operations and share information.
• Collaborate with team members across departments to support the facility in reliably serving the region’s energy needs.
• Handle recurring work situations of moderate to high complexity, with occasional variations from standard practices, in a facility that plays a vital role in the local energy infrastructure.
• Perform other duties as required to support daily plant operations.

NAES Safe

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.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods…