Plant Operator

Job Summary:

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of electricity and steam by performing both field/auxiliary duties and control‑room operations (monitoring, alarms, startup/shutdown, load control).

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Operations & Monitoring

• Operate, inspect, and monitor power plant equipment (e.g., gas turbines/generators and associated auxiliaries, feedwater/condensate systems, fuel systems, boiler/HRSG equipment, and water treatment systems) to maintain safe, efficient, and reliable plant performance.
• In the control room, operate HMIs/panels to regulate turbines, generators, HRSGs, and auxiliary equipment; maintain proper steam temperature/pressure, feedwater and fuel supply, and overall efficient conditions.
• Execute plant startup, shutdown, and load control; perform emergency operations to maintain electric service and safeguard station equipment.

Condition Assessment, Troubleshooting & Documentation

• Observe variations in operating conditions; interpret instrument readings to troubleshoot equipment and resolve operational problems.
• Maintain accurate CRO/shift logs and respond to dispatcher orders and requests in real time.
• Generate/review work requests for equipment repair and assist maintenance personnel (including safe tool/equipment use and vehicle operation) as needed.

Safety, Compliance & Procedures

• Recognize hazards; follow safety guidelines for personal, coworker, and public protection; implement plant emergency procedures when required.
• Understand and execute equipment clearance procedures (LOTO) and operate various switches/valves, knowing their impact on total plant operation.
• Communicate plant conditions clearly (oral and written) to supervision and team members; provide suggestions for plant improvements within established procedures. 

Chemistry & Data Handling

• Take samples and perform routine laboratory tests/analysis for plant processes (e.g., boiler water, make‑up demineralizer); monitor and record data using instruments, charts, annunciators, and other devices.
• Operate computer systems to receive, analyze, and input operational data.

Working Conditions:

• Industrial power‑plant and occasional office environments; exposure to rotating equipment, high voltage, high noise, elevations up to 150–250 ft, confined spaces, and all temperature extremes.
• Irregular/rotating shifts, weekend/holiday work, and 24/7 callout. Emergencies may require respirator use and stair climbing to safety shelters. Facial hair is prohibited in the respirator sealing area; contact lenses restricted except for specific medical reasons; safety footwear required.

Minimum Requirements

Education & Credentials

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid state driver’s license. 

Experience

• 0-3 years’ Plant Operator experience (or equivalent industrial experience) in a power plant environment. Level placement depends on demonstrated competencies.

Qualification

• Ability to successfully complete the Control Room Operator qualification card (required for CRO progression).
• The position is part of a structured progression pathway: Hired candidate will be required to complete the training, qualification cards (including the Control Room Operator qualification card), and competency milestones for progression from Plant Operator to Control Room Operator within a defined target timeframe. Successful completion makes employees eligible to be considered for advancement in accordance with Company policy; this statement does not create a contract or guarantee promotion.
• The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and requires the successful candidate to pass a pre-employment DOT drug screen and drug and alcohol testing background check, and once placed will be a participant in the NRG DOT Program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree or certificate from a technical/vocational program (or equivalent)

Additional Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of steam power‑plant systems and fundamental plant principles.
• Ability to perform arithmetic for flow, pressure, and meter calculations.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, procedures, and technical manuals.
• Proficiency with HMIs and related electronic/computer equipment; discern and respond to verbal/auditory signals.
• LOTO proficiency; perform PM checks; support performance testing; strong teamwork and self‑directed learning.

Physical Requirements (Demand and Frequency):

• Work indoors/outdoors under all climates per Heat Stress procedures; around large rotating and energized equipment; in high‑noise areas; at elevations up to 250 ft; and in confined spaces (with respirator).
• Frequent walking, standing, stair/ladder climbing; ability to work from aerial devices.
• Routine kneeling, crouching, squatting, twisting, pushing, pulling, shoveling; use hand tools (up to 25 lbs) above/below head and extended from the body.
• Lifting: Medium (≤50 lbs) Frequent; Heavy (>50 lbs) Frequent (use team lift/mechanical assist per safety procedures).
• Near/color/depth vision Frequent; far vision Moderate; talking/hearing Moderate; hand‑eye coordination and full motor capability Frequent.
• Must wear required PPE (steel‑toed boots, respirators, goggles/safety glasses, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves, high‑voltage protective equipment) and work with/around hazardous and non‑hazardous materials per guidance.