Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician

Opportunity Summary

The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician at the Batavia Power Plant supports the safe startup, operation, and monitoring of a 1+1 combined cycle cogeneration facility, contributing to reliable electric and thermal energy production. This role provides hands-on exposure to major plant systems, including combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, auxiliary systems, and foundational IC&E and control system activities. It is a structured development position that combines field operations, maintenance support, and progressive training toward Control Room Operator qualification within an integrated generating environment.

Scope of Responsibility

• Perform controlled startup, shutdown, and operational support of combined cycle combustion turbine, HRSG, steam turbine, and auxiliary systems in accordance with plant procedures and under supervision to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Operate and monitor major plant auxiliary systems, including condensate and feedwater systems, cooling systems, air compressors, and demineralized water systems to support continuous combined cycle and cogeneration operation.
• Conduct routine field inspections and operational rounds to identify abnormal conditions, equipment issues, or performance deviations and communicate findings to operations personnel.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and shift documentation, recording equipment status, operating conditions, and any observed abnormalities.
• Identify and report abnormal operating conditions promptly, supporting corrective actions under established procedures to maintain safe and stable plant operation.
• Perform basic instrumentation, controls, and electrical (IC&E) support activities, including field verification checks, sensor validation, and assistance with troubleshooting.
• Aid maintenance personnel during planned and unplanned outages by supporting equipment preparation, system isolations, and return-to-service activities.
• Use the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document work activities, track equipment status, and support maintenance planning and coordination.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance tasks as assigned, following established procedures and safety requirements.
• Conduct hands-on inspections of mechanical and electrical equipment, identifying leaks, lubrication needs, wear, and other conditions impacting reliability.
• Support troubleshooting of mechanical and operational issues affecting turbines, HRSGs, steam systems, generators, and auxiliary equipment.
• Assist with control system and PLC-related activities, including basic signal verification, field checks, and support of diagnostic troubleshooting under supervision.
• Participate in structured Control Room Operator (CRO) qualification training while progressively developing knowledge of integrated combined cycle plant operations and system coordination.
• Provide occasional backup O&M support to the Sterling Power Plant, assisting with field operations, monitoring, and outage activities to maintain safe, reliable operations.
• Fulfill other tasks as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of plant operations.

Safety

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

• Standing for extended periods of time.
• Climbing stairs and ladders.
• Working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 O&M Technician works a standard Monday to Friday day-shift schedule, ensuring consistent plant operation and support during regular business hours. 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 ranging from $35 to $40 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

• Skilled Technician with experience in power generation operations and maintenance, coupled with a proven ability to contribute effectively to team success and consistently meet performance standards.
• Ability to understand procedures and instructions related to the assigned area, typically acquired through four years of high school.
• An Associate degree in power plant technology, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education.
• Hands-on experience in power plant operations, including exposure to gas turbine-based generation systems, steam systems, and associated auxiliary equipment in a utility or industrial power generation environment.
• Working knowledge of plant startup, shutdown, and normal operating practices, with the ability to perform basic troubleshooting and support mechanical, electrical, and control system issues under supervision.
• Familiarity with major plant equipment such as pumps, valves, heat exchangers, compressors, and turbine-generator systems, including basic inspection, monitoring, and support of maintenance activities.
• Understanding of gas and steam turbine operating principles, plant instrumentation, and basic process control concepts used to support reliable power generation performance.
• Experience working collaboratively with operations and maintenance teams to support planned and unplanned outages, routine maintenance activities, and equipment troubleshooting efforts.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to clearly document operational conditions, communicate abnormalities, and support continuous improvement in plant performance.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.