Auxiliary Plant Operator

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Plant Operator plays an essential role in supporting the operation of biomass power generation systems at the Madison Biomass Facility. This position involves active participation in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of critical plant processes, including fuel handling systems, biomass-fired boilers, and associated auxiliary equipment.

Primary Functions

• Assist with start-up, shutdown, and routine operations of biomass plant systems in accordance with established procedures and safety protocols, including the safe and efficient operation of the facility’s Foster Wheeler boiler.
• Operate and monitor key auxiliary systems such as biomass fuel conveyors, feed systems, ash handling equipment, air compressors, boiler feedwater systems, and emissions control systems, including the hot precipitator and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system.
• Conduct routine inspections, diagnostics, and performance tests on critical systems and components, with particular attention to boiler performance, combustion efficiency, and emissions control reliability.
• Carry out control room orders to prepare equipment for service or safely remove it from operation. Tasks include isolation, lockout/tagout, and ensuring all safety protocols are observed during clearances and handovers.
• Perform routine water chemistry analysis on boiler feedwater and condensate systems; operate emissions monitoring equipment to ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate and timely operating logs and shift reports in accordance with regulatory and company requirements; issue and approve Tag Outs when authorized.
• Identify and report abnormal or off-normal equipment or process conditions to the Control Room Operator (CRO), and support or take corrective actions as needed.
• Aid in mechanical and electrical maintenance activities including Lockout/Tagout support, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and maintenance request generation.
• Utilize a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document work performed, track system performance, and assist with work planning and material requisition.
• Support the facility’s mission of promoting sustainable energy practices and long-term environmental stewardship through reliable and efficient plant operation.

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

• Standing for extended periods.
• Climbing stairs and ladders.
• Entering and exiting equipment cabs.
• Traversing uneven or elevated surfaces.
• Routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Performing tasks from elevated platforms, walkways, or in confined spaces.
• Working in conditions involving dust, wood particles, fumes, high noise levels, and extreme temperatures near operating equipment.
• Outdoor tasks in all weather conditions are required, including in high-heat environments adjacent to biomass processing systems.
• The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory and may include hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, high-visibility clothing, steel-toe boots, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), respirators, and fall protection.
• 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 Auxiliary Plant Operator follows a modified DuPont rotating 12-hour shift schedule, ensuring 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts that includes built-in rest days to support continuous and reliable plant operations. This position will 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 $29 to $31 per hour, along with an annual performance bonus.

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.