DOTP-Plant Operator

About the Role

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of electricity and steam by performing both field/auxiliary duties and control‑room operations (monitoring, alarms, startup/shutdown, load control).

Responsibilities

• Operations & Monitoring: Operate, inspect, and monitor power plant equipment (e.g., gas turbines/generators, feedwater/condensate systems, fuel systems, boiler/HRSG equipment, and water treatment systems) to maintain safe and efficient plant performance. In the control room, regulate turbines, generators, HRSGs, and auxiliary equipment using HMIs/panels; maintain proper steam temperature/pressure, feedwater and fuel supply, and overall efficient conditions. Execute plant startup, shutdown, and load control; perform emergency operations to maintain electric service and safeguard equipment.
• Condition Assessment & Troubleshooting: Observe variations in operating conditions; interpret instrument readings to troubleshoot equipment and resolve operational problems. Maintain accurate logs and respond to dispatcher orders in real time. Generate/review work requests for equipment repair and assist maintenance personnel as needed.
• Safety & Compliance: Recognize hazards; follow safety guidelines for personal, coworker, and public protection; implement plant emergency procedures when required. Understand and execute LOTO procedures and operate switches/valves, knowing their impact on plant operation. Communicate plant conditions clearly to supervision and team members; provide suggestions for improvements within established procedures.
• Chemistry & Data Handling: Take samples and perform routine laboratory tests/analysis for plant processes (e.g., boiler water, make‑up demineralizer); monitor and record data using instruments, charts, and other devices. Operate computer systems to receive, analyze, and input operational data.

Working Conditions

Industrial power‑plant and occasional office environments; exposure to rotating equipment, high voltage, high noise, elevations up to 150–250 ft, confined spaces, and all temperature extremes. Irregular/rotating shifts, weekend/holiday work, and 24/7 callout. Emergencies may require respirator use and stair climbing to safety shelters. Facial hair is prohibited in the respirator sealing area; contact lenses restricted except for specific medical reasons; safety footwear required.

Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Credentials: Valid state driver’s license.
• Experience: 0-3 years’ Plant Operator experience (or equivalent industrial experience) in a power plant environment. Level placement depends on demonstrated competencies.
• Qualification: Ability to successfully complete the Control Room Operator qualification card (required for CRO progression). Participation in a structured progression pathway from Plant Operator to Control Room Operator within a defined timeframe. The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and requires passing a pre-employment DOT drug screen and background check, with ongoing participation in the NRG DOT Program.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree or certificate from a technical/vocational program (or equivalent)

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of steam power‑plant systems and fundamental plant principles.
• Ability to perform arithmetic for flow, pressure, and meter calculations.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, procedures, and technical manuals.
• Proficiency with HMIs and related electronic/computer equipment; discern and respond to verbal/auditory signals.
• LOTO proficiency; perform PM checks; support performance testing; strong teamwork and self‑directed learning.

Physical Requirements

• Work indoors/outdoors under all climates; around large rotating and energized equipment; in high‑noise areas; at elevations up to 250 ft; and in confined spaces (with respirator).
• Frequent walking, standing, stair/ladder climbing; ability to work from aerial devices.
• Routine kneeling, crouching, squatting, twisting, pushing, pulling, shoveling; use hand tools (up to 25 lbs) above/below head and extended from the body.
• Lifting: Medium (≤50 lbs) Frequent; Heavy (>50 lbs) Frequent (use team lift/mechanical assist per safety procedures).
• Near/color/depth vision Frequent; far vision Moderate; talking/hearing Moderate; hand‑eye coordination and full motor capability Frequent.
• Must wear required PPE and work with/around hazardous and non‑hazardous materials per guidance.