Boiler Operator

About the Role

Sprague Resources is hiring a Boiler Operator (Steam Plant Operator) for our Tamworth, NH biomass electric generating power station. This role involves day-to-day operations and routine preventative maintenance of the power plant, including monitoring and documenting plant processes, operating PLC-based control systems, and performing corrective actions to maintain system functionality.

Responsibilities

• Start-up, operate, shutdown, and secure equipment under normal and emergency conditions in the field.
• Train in ARC flash protection and safety protocol; become OSHA qualified for electrical circuit breaker operation and company policy.
• Troubleshoot and perform preventative maintenance and basic mechanical tasks as directed.
• Complete plant rounds to inspect all facility machinery for malfunctions or potential failures.
• Maintain logs and records of operating conditions; report any irregularities.
• Assist in facility water chemistry tests and control treatment chemicals within recommended limits.
• Repair and calibrate equipment as required.
• Monitor and evaluate plant production equipment, including efficiency, heat rate, and system demands.
• Respond to process variable feedback (temperature, pressure, flow) to ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective power generation while maintaining environmental standards.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance on ash removal, boiler and fuel systems, valves, pumps, and other components.
• Develop operating and maintenance procedures for consistent and safe operation.
• Conduct or assist in scheduled and forced outage maintenance work.
• Supervise, coordinate, or assist contractors performing work at the facility.
• Comply with all Facility Environmental, Health, and Safety policies and programs.
• Maintain logs of problems, repairs, and downtime.
• Participate in committees and task forces for plant operations and improvements.
• Assist in the implementation and upkeep of the preventative maintenance and spare parts inventory tracking system.
• Act as a team member; comply with all NE Renewable Power policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance to lesser experienced operations personnel.
• Other duties as assigned by supervision.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Technical education or 1-2 years’ experience working at a power plant, millwright, or equivalent mechanical experience.
• Familiarity with PLC-based controls or similar is a plus.
• Valid driver's license.
• Basic computer skills, including data entry.
• Basic math skills.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with power and precision tools.
• Ability to work cooperatively and without direct supervision.
• Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions in power plant operations and maintenance.
• Commitment to strict adherence to all safety practices and procedures.
• Team-oriented mindset to collaboratively address business challenges.

Work Environment

• 80% of work is performed indoors, 20% outdoors.
• Exposure to weather conditions, high ambient temperatures, hot surfaces, steam, hot water, and high-pressure/high-temperature/high-decibel processes.
• Moderate to high noise levels in the work environment.
• Required use of protective equipment, including hard hats, safety glasses, respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves, and high-voltage protective gear.
• Extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility.
• Respond to plant emergencies/call-ins (day or night) on holidays or weekends as applicable.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work on your feet for extensive periods, climb stairs and ladders, and routinely lift 50 pounds.
• Capability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, fall protection, hard hats, safety shoes, and safety glasses.
• Ability to work in elevated areas, confined spaces, and extreme heat and cold conditions.
• Perform repetitive motions as required.
• Ability to hear and understand audible alarms and detect changes in equipment noise levels.

All employees must pass pre-employment screenings, including a physical examination, pulmonary function test, OSHA respirator questionnaire, audiometric test, drug screen, motor vehicle verification, and background check. Post-employment screenings include an annual audiogram and respirator fit testing.

Benefits

• Medical benefits and retirement contributions starting on your first day.
• 401(k) Traditional and Roth plans with a 100% employer match of the first 6% of the employee’s contribution.
• Defined Contribution Plan with an automatic 2.6% contribution from Sprague.
• Paid Volunteer Time.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Choice of high-deductible and PPO Health Plans.
• Wellness Program.