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:

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 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 regular work schedule follows a rotating 12-hour shift, alternating between days and nights to support continuous 24/7 operations. 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 of $34 per hour.

Job Qualifications

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.

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

Education

Preferred

Skills

Preferred

Behaviors

Preferred

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.