Operator I

About the Role

The Operator I supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of a reciprocating engine-based power generation facility. This role performs routine operational activities, monitors plant equipment, and assists in maintaining optimal plant performance while ensuring compliance with all safety, environmental, and operational requirements. The Operator I works closely with the Shift Supervisor, Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Technicians, Maintenance Technicians, OEM representatives, contractors, and vendors to support plant availability, equipment reliability, commissioning activities, startup and shutdown operations, troubleshooting, and planned outages.

Responsibilities

• Safely start, stop, operate, and monitor engine-generator packages and all associated auxiliary equipment in accordance with OEM specifications, plant procedures, and operating limits.
• Monitor plant equipment through the control system and field inspections to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Adjust operating parameters and setpoints within approved OEM and plant guidelines to optimize performance, efficiency, and equipment reliability.
• Conduct routine equipment inspections and document operating conditions, equipment status, and abnormalities.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and report equipment malfunctions or abnormal operating conditions to the Shift Supervisor.
• Assist with plant startups, shutdowns, commissioning activities, and planned maintenance outages.
• Coordinate with Maintenance and I&E personnel to safely isolate equipment and return systems to service following maintenance activities.
• Complete operating logs, shift reports, inspections, and other required documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Participate in OEM and company training programs to develop a thorough understanding of plant systems, operating procedures, and equipment capabilities.
• Follow all company safety policies, environmental regulations, permit-to-work procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space, and other safe work practices.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping throughout the facility to promote a safe and organized work environment.
• Assist contractors, OEM representatives, and vendors while work is performed on site.
• Respond appropriately to plant alarms, emergency situations, and abnormal operating conditions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance plant safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shift Supervisor or Plant Management.

Work Environment

Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to work around high-voltage equipment, rotating machinery, elevated noise levels, and hot surfaces while following all applicable safety procedures.

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED is required.
• Previous experience in industrial operations, manufacturing, utilities, oil and gas, or power generation is preferred but not required.
• Basic understanding of mechanical equipment, pumps, compressors, engines, valves, and auxiliary systems.
• Ability to read and interpret operating procedures, equipment manuals, and technical documentation.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use plant monitoring and reporting systems.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
• Ability to recognize abnormal equipment conditions and respond appropriately.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn complex plant systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced operating environment.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and respond to emergency callouts as required.

Qualifications

• Technical training or coursework in power generation, industrial operations, mechanical systems, or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work at elevated heights.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing.

Benefits

Veolia’s comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering, and more. Employees are also entitled to participate in an employer-sponsored 401(k) plan to save for retirement.