Operations Manager - Southcentral Power Plant (SPP)

About the Role

This position manages daily power plant operations and production activities, directing resources to achieve plant availability and reliability requirements in accordance with standardized operating procedures. The role analyzes plant operations and makes recommendations for improving performance related to safety, availability, reliability, efficiency, and operating cost.

Responsibilities

• Direct operators in all aspects of power plant operations.
• Manage daily production activities for the plant(s).
• Review operating data to ensure economic operation, compliance with safety procedures, correction of deficiencies, and permit requirements.
• Develop, implement, update, and maintain operations and maintenance plans, procedures, checklists, site policies, training and safety programs, and work practices.
• Oversee plant maintenance compliance with permit conditions, environmental health and safety programs, local laws, ordinances, and standards.
• Monitor and implement regulatory requirements.
• Develop and implement operator training programs and maintain operator qualifications.
• Manage water treatment programs.
• Coordinate and review plant safety programs, including required training for lock-out/tag-out procedures, confined space entry, and hot work permits.
• Coordinate with purchasing and warehouse to acquire parts and materials.
• Assist in engineering and implementing plant upgrades and modifications.
• Prepare, review, and analyze daily equipment log sheets, alarm conditions, and other operational data.
• Document abnormal conditions and perform root cause analysis; formulate solutions to minimize recurrence.
• Assess plant systems and equipment for routine repairs and maintenance in coordination with the Plant Manager and Maintenance Manager; initiate work order requests in the Computerized Maintenance Management System.
• Plan and prepare capital and operating budgets relating to division and contracts.
• Routinely inspect generation equipment, auxiliary systems, outbuildings, and main structures.
• Verify that appropriate unit testing is performed and documented.
• Prepare, review, and approve documents, records, work orders, and reports.
• Establish initiatives and manage objectives aligned with Chugach’s overall strategic goals.
• Prepare and administer employee performance reviews.
• Plan for staffing, training, and development of department personnel.
• Support continuous improvement and operational efficiency by identifying areas of opportunity and sharing recommendations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Relationships

• Internal:
  • Plant Manager: Report to, receive direction, guidance, and decisions from.
  • Maintenance Manager: Coordinate with, give and receive information.
  • Other Departments: Coordinate with, provide assistance to, and exchange information.
• External:
  • Bargaining Unit Representatives
  • Repair Facilities: Communicate with and coordinate work.
  • Consulting Firms and Manufacturers: Coordinate with and exchange information.
  • Local Vendors: Consult with.

Requirements

• Knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems and components.
• Knowledge of industrial turbines and associated auxiliary equipment.
• Knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and controls maintenance techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of gas turbines (aero derivative and frame), steam turbines, hydro turbines, and plant auxiliary systems.
• Knowledge of boiler and cooling water treatment.
• Proven ability to provide effective leadership by fostering a collaborative, high-performing team environment through guidance, training, and mentorship.
• Proven ability to be self-motivated and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to prioritize assignments and delegate duties to the department.
• Proven ability to uphold ethical and professional conduct.
• Demonstrated ability to organize workflow, manage multiple priorities, and effectively utilize resources.
• Ability to manage cross-functional teams and develop effective working relationships.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering or related field, required.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience, including supervisory experience in the operation and maintenance of power plants, required.
• Experience working in a union environment, preferred.

Additional professional experience in a similarly complex role or related field (above the 5-year minimum) may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has supervisory responsibility for plant operators.

Work Environment

• This is a field position at plant sites.
• Work may be assigned to a remote site as required to complete projects or assume similar duties.
• Travel may require use of a company vehicle, fixed-wing, or helicopter aircraft.
• Some evening and weekend work may be required, including infrequent periods of around-the-clock work during emergencies and equipment testing.
• Occasional work in excess of a normal workday may be required.
• Schedule and base location may be modified due to changes in Chugach business plans and/or operational needs at other facilities.

Benefits

Health Benefits

• Premium & Deductible are paid for by Chugach Electric.
• Coverage includes: Medical, RX, Dental & Vision.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Telemedicine.

Financial Security

• 401K Plan.
• Defined Benefit (Pension).
• Retirement Investment services.
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Chugach Electric.
• Supplemental Life Insurance.
• Short Term Disability.
• Long Term Disability.
• Flex Spending Account (Health, Limited Use, Dependent Care).

Work, Life & Health

• 20 days vacation for first year of employment.
• 10 Paid Holidays + 3 Float Holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• MetLife Will Preparation.