Power Plant Coal Yard Operator

Power Plant Coal Yard Operator

This entry-level position is responsible for the safe operation of industrial machinery and heavy equipment in support of a commercial multi-unit power generation facility that operates on a 24/7 rotating shift. The role focuses on operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting systems associated with combined cycle and coal-fired power plants, responding to alarms, executing plant procedures, and performing planned and corrective maintenance to ensure safe, compliant, reliable, and efficient plant operations.

Responsibilities

• Operate controls and equipment to regulate Heat Recovery Steam Generators, Combustion Turbines, Boilers, and Steam Turbines to maintain safe, compliant, reliable, and efficient combustion conditions.
• Perform emergency operations to maintain electric service and safeguard plant equipment during abnormal or upset conditions.
• Carry out corrective and preventive maintenance on electrical and mechanical equipment, plant structures, and buildings to support power station operations.
• Conduct regular inspections and tests of facilities to determine the overall condition of the power plant and identify potential issues.
• Report upset conditions, alarms, or other anomalies in plant status to Operations and Maintenance Department staff as appropriate.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly testing as required to maintain compliance with governing agencies and regulatory standards.
• Make accurate and timely entries in the Operating Log to document plant status, activities, and events.
• Operate mobile heavy equipment such as wheeled dozers, haul trucks, and water wagons in a safe and controlled manner.
• Operate stationary heavy equipment such as conveyors, stacker/reclaimers, and railcar dumpers to support coal yard and plant operations.
• Respond to alarms by taking appropriate corrective actions and following established plant procedures.
• Perform planned and corrective maintenance, including semi-skilled mechanical work on plant and coal yard equipment.
• Use and follow lockout tag-out procedures to ensure the safe isolation of equipment during maintenance and repair activities.
• Carry and operate a fire extinguisher and take appropriate actions to escape emergency situations when required.
• Wear and properly use all required personal protective equipment while performing job duties.
• Lift, push, and pull heavy objects as needed to support maintenance and operational tasks.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall plant and coal yard operations.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Effective knowledge of industrial machinery operations, specifically heavy equipment used in power plant and coal yard environments.
• Ability to operate heavy mobile equipment such as dozers, excavators, haul trucks, and water wagons.
• Ability to operate stationary equipment including conveyor systems, stacker/reclaimers, and railcar dumpers.
• Understanding of power plant operations, including combined cycle and coal-fired systems.
• Knowledge of the principles of combustion and their application in power generation equipment.
• Knowledge of troubleshooting and repair procedures for industrial and power plant equipment.
• Knowledge of safety equipment and procedures involved in handling potentially hazardous chemicals.
• Familiarity with lockout tag-out procedures and safe isolation of equipment.
• Awareness of various state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and industry practices related to power generation and environmental compliance.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills with strong reliability and commitment to the team.
• High level of motivation with a willingness to work swing shifts, extended hours when necessary, and be available for emergency call-outs.
• Ability to stand and walk on cement floors, uneven ground, slippery surfaces, and open grating at heights from ground level up to approximately 390 feet.
• Ability to climb extension ladders, restricted overhead clearance ladders, scaffolding, stairs, and other elevated equipment.
• Ability to carry and operate a fire extinguisher and run to escape emergency situations.
• Ability to wear all required PPE including hard hat, FR clothing, steel toe…