Power Plant Operator

NAES Corporation

Houston, TX

Pay: $48-$53/hr

Channelview Cogeneration is an 851 MW combined-cycle power generation facility located in Houston, Texas. The plant operates in a 4x1 configuration featuring two Siemens 501F-D2 and two Siemens 501F-D3 combustion turbines, four Nooter/Eriksen heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs), and one Alstom steam turbine generator. The facility is designed to provide efficient, reliable generation while supporting the energy needs of the Houston-area market.

**Opportunity Summary**

The Power Plant Operator supports the safe, reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of Channelview Cogeneration by monitoring equipment, performing field rounds, operating plant systems, and assisting with troubleshooting and maintenance. Working under the direction of the Operations Supervisor and Control Room Operator, this position supports normal and emergency operations, maintains water chemistry requirements, follows established procedures, and completes required Plant Operator and Head Operator qualifications.

**Your scope of responsibility as Power Plant Operator will include the following primary functions:**

• Operate gas turbines, steam turbines, HRSGs, generators, and auxiliary equipment to support safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations during normal and emergency conditions.
• Follow equipment clearance and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), Work Authorizations, and applicable confined space and hot work permit requirements.
• Monitor DCS and PLC systems, including Siemens T3000, Ovation, and Allen-Bradley platforms, to assess equipment status and identify abnormal operating conditions.
• Align plant equipment, operate manual valves, and adjust plant systems as directed by the Control Room Operator or Operations Supervisor.
• Collect and analyze HRSG water samples and adjust chemical feed as authorized to maintain water quality within established specifications.
• Interpret instrument readings, meters, gauges, and annunciator signals; record operating parameters, shift logs, equipment rounds, and inspection results.
• Troubleshoot equipment and system malfunctions, assist with failure investigations, recommend corrective actions, and identify maintenance needs.
• Prepare and review equipment work requests and assist maintenance personnel with inspections, repairs, preventive maintenance, and performance testing.
• Support emergency response, equipment failure investigations, and other activities involving abnormal plant conditions or operational incidents.
• Complete site-specific Plant Operator qualifications within six months of hire and Head Operator qualifications within two years after completing Plant Operator qualifications.
• Review and revise operating procedures and related documentation to support accurate, consistent plant operations.
• Coordinate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, contractors, and vendors to communicate plant conditions and support operational priorities.
• Assist with operator training and cross-training to develop personnel and maintain operational proficiency.
• Monitor the off-loading of aqueous ammonia and other bulk chemicals in accordance with established handling and environmental requirements.
• Maintain clean and orderly work areas, identify hazards, and follow applicable safety, environmental, regulatory, and company requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the facility.

**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.

**Working Relationships**

The Power Plant Operator reports to the Operations Manager and also receives direction from the Maintenance Manager and Plant Manager. The Power Plant Operator provides direction to other plant personnel as needed to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the facility.

**Physical Requirements and Working Conditions**

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.

Power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near equipment and varying outdoor weather conditions.

Some duties may require the use of protective equipment, which can include hard hats, safety glasses, and eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), h