Assistant Operator Trainee I

About the role

Collins, a family-owned company founded in 1855, produces softwood and hardwood products at facilities in Chester, California; Lakeview, Oregon; and Kane, Pennsylvania. The Powerhouse Assistant Operator Trainee is in the beginning phases of learning to operate and maintain systems within the powerhouse to ensure continuous and steady operation of supplying steam for lumber drying and generating power for sales.

Responsibilities

• Comply with safety standards at all times and correct/report any observed safety hazards.
• Read and study material related to steam boilers and power generation.
• Begin learning how to:
  • Monitor and maintain all powerhouse operating equipment.
  • Operate and maintain all rolling stock equipment used in the powerhouse.
  • Draw out the fuel system, boiler, ESP ash, instrument, plant air, fire protection, and service water systems; boiler makeup and condensate return water; and 1-line high voltage electrical 60kv supply to 4160v/480v main breakers.
  • Perform the alignment and safe start-up of the boiler, turbine generator, and related equipment.
  • Perform the safe parallel connection to PG&E.
  • Collect and test all water samples and adjust chemical pumps accordingly.
  • Shut down the powerhouse in the case of an emergency.
  • Start the plant.
  • Take inventory of all chemicals, testing supplies, and testing equipment for restocking purposes.
  • Perform inspections on safety-related items, first aid kit, fire extinguishers, sprinkler sheds, and other items as needed.
  • Make nightly rounds in all departments and lock all gates for the entire plant site.
  • Collect all hot work permits and make multiple rounds checking for signs of fire.
  • Assist with boiler grate cleaning.
  • Push fuel, clean up, and assist maintenance personnel as needed.
• Must pass a series of tests related to steam boilers and power generation.
• Perform additional duties as needed by the Powerhouse Operator and supervisor.
• On-site attendance during scheduled shifts is essential to effectively perform the listed duties and responsibilities.

Requirements

• Must be eighteen (18) years of age or older.
• Meet company requirements, which may include an evaluation of mechanical comprehension.
• Ability to follow all company, state, and federal safety rules when performing required job duties.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screening.

Environmental Conditions

• May be exposed to dust, noise, trip hazards, and variable temperatures and weather conditions.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Individuals must be willing to wear the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. Positions may require additional PPE at specific times.
• Examples of PPE which may be required include high visibility garments, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, a hard hat, foot protection, a face shield, and a respirator.

Schedule

• 10–12-hour day or night shifts with the possibility of scheduled weekends and holidays.
• Schedule rotates every 12 weeks between days and nights.