Operating Technician

Chalk Point Generation Station, situated in Aquasco, Maryland, is a key power generation facility with a total capacity of approximately 1,618 MW. The station features a diverse lineup of nine generating units, including seven gas turbines and two steam turbines. This strategic configuration enhances efficiency and reliability, ensuring the station effectively meets regional energy demands.

Opportunity Summary

The Operating Technician at Chalk Point Generation Station plays a key role in supporting the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of auxiliary equipment. Located at a facility with nine generating units—including seven gas turbines and two steam turbines—this position demands precision and adaptability to maintain system reliability. The technician performs inspections, makes necessary repairs, and follows directives from the Control Room Operator to ensure optimal performance. This role also supports maintenance efforts and requires proficiency with a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).

Your scope of responsibility as Operating Technician will include the following primary functions:

- Assist in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of power plant systems, ensuring smooth and efficient processes.

- Operate key auxiliary equipment, such as air compressors, demineralized water systems, lube oil cooling systems, hydraulic systems, and locally controlled electrical and mechanical devices, to support overall plant functionality.

- Conduct operating tests and inspections, performing necessary minor repairs and adjustments to maintain optimal equipment performance.

- Follow Control Room Supervisor directives to clear and prepare equipment for service at isolated panels, including tasks like clearing, tagging, testing, and applying safety tape according to procedures.

- Maintain detailed and accurate logs, ensuring all operational activities are thoroughly documented.

- Monitor and report any abnormal or irregular conditions that occur during operations, taking corrective actions as required within the scope of operating instructions.

- Provide support during maintenance periods, contributing to the upkeep and reliability of plant systems.

- Actively support the use of a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), demonstrating proficiency in system usage, consistent data entry, and alignment with the facility's maintenance philosophy.

- Accurately record equipment issues and document maintenance actions on SAP work orders, efficiently managing both corrective and preventive tasks while diligently tracking spare parts usage and initiating re-orders as needed.

- Regularly read meters, gauges, and automatic devices to record critical data, such as equipment temperature, vibration levels, hours of operation, pressure, and fluid levels, verifying proper operating conditions.

- Perform visual inspections and listen to equipment at scheduled intervals to detect malfunctions or identify the need for repairs, adjustments, or lubrication.

- Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical malfunctions or failures in operational equipment, executing repairs, replacements, dismantling, and examination of defective parts. Ensure all components are properly lubricated and cleaned.

- Utilize a Fluke meter and other test equipment to accurately calibrate and repair plant instrumentation and electrical circuits.

- Safely terminate and connect 480 VAC motor wiring, ensuring proper installation and functionality.

- Assist in troubleshooting and inspecting programmable logic controllers (PLCs), plant control systems, and distributed control systems (DCS), including the replacement of control cards and wiring terminations.

- Perform additional tasks as required by the O&M Manager, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of 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.

Working Relationships

The Operating Technician reports to the Control Room Supervisor and takes general direction from plant management.

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), hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions apply in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

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.

Work Schedule

The Operating Technician works a rotating 12-hour shift schedule, alternating between days and nights to support continuous 24/7 operations and ensure seamless shift transitions. This position will also occasionally necessitate extended working hours and flexible shifts as needed, including weekends and holidays, in response to schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or “On call” status may also be required.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $38.11 to $54.94 per hour.

Core Qualifications and Skills

We are seeking a skilled Operator with a foundation in power generation operations, along with a proven ability to support team success and consistently meet performance standards.

- An Associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, equivalent technical training in industrial maintenance or instrumentation and control is beneficial, though not required. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education on a year-for-year basis.

- Prior experience and extensive working knowledge in power plant operations is desirable.

- Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion turbine and/or steam turbine operations, electrical systems, industrial safety, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste management, and the inspection and logging of plant parameters is highly desirable.

- Experience with a lockout/tagout program for hazardous energy control is required.

- Familiarity with piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and process control systems is desirable.

- Working knowledge of a work order system or computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) is essential.

- Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical systems—including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling equipment, water treatment systems, pollution control systems, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems—is required, along with associated maintenance functions.

- Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential.

- Ability to work well with others, be self-directed, and apply creative solutions to operational or maintenance challenges is necessary.

- Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have built a reputation as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Our growing family of companies allows us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.

Experience

Preferred

- We are seeking a skilled Operator with a foundation in power generation operations, along with a proven ability to support team success and consistently meet performance standards.

- An Associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, equivalent technical training in industrial maintenance or instrumentation and control is beneficial, though not required. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education on a year-for-year basis.

- Prior experience and extensive working knowledge in power plant operations is desirable.

- Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion turbine and/or steam turbine operations, electrical systems, industrial safety, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste management, and the inspection and logging of plant parameters is highly desirable.

- Experience with a lockout/tagout program for hazardous energy control is required.

- Familiarity with piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and process control systems is desirable.

- Working knowledge of a work order system or computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) is essential.

- Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical systems—including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling equipment, water treatment systems, pollution control systems, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems—is required, along with associated maintenance functions.

- Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential.

- Ability to work well with others, be self-directed, and apply creative solutions to operational or maintenance challenges is necessary.

Education

Required

- High School or better

Preferred

- Associates or better in Power Plant Technology or related field

Licenses & Certifications

Required

- Driver's License

Skills

Preferred

- Safety Policies and Procedures

- Power Plant Operations

- Power Plant Fundamentals

- Power Generation

- CMMS

- Chemistry Analysis

- Water Treatment

- Water Chemistry

- Chemical Handling

- Hazardous Waste Management

- Combustion Turbine

- Steam Turbine

- Piping & Instrumentation Design (P&ID)

Behaviors

Preferred

- Team Player: Works well as a member of a group

- Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking

- Functional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subject

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.