Plant Operator

About the role

We are seeking a hands-on Plant Operator to operate, maintain, and repair equipment at a landfill gas-to-energy facility in Youngstown, NY. This role involves maintaining large Caterpillar natural gas engines, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and completing extensive engine overhauls to ensure safe and efficient plant operations. The ideal candidate has a strong mechanical background, preferably with diesel engines or heavy equipment, and enjoys physically demanding, hands-on maintenance work. This individual must be comfortable working with a small team, responding to equipment emergencies, and participating in a rotating on-call schedule.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain a 10-engine natural gas facility consisting of two adjacent indoor plants
• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and mechanical repairs on plant equipment
• Troubleshoot engine malfunctions, respond to system alarms, and implement corrective actions
• Adjust plant controls to optimize equipment performance, efficiency, and reliability
• Conduct major engine overhauls, including disassembly, inspection, and replacement of pistons, liners, cylinder heads, bearings, and other components
• Repair and replace worn or damaged mechanical parts according to established maintenance schedules
• Execute equipment startup and shutdown procedures while maintaining safe operating conditions
• Participate in a rotating on-call schedule approximately one week out of every four
• Collaborate with plant operators and management to maintain consistent facility operations
• Support engine overhauls and repairs at other facilities through optional paid travel opportunities

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of hands-on mechanical maintenance or engine repair experience
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair equipment
• Experience working with diesel engines, heavy equipment, or industrial machinery strongly preferred
• Ability to perform physically demanding maintenance, including extensive engine disassembly and component replacement
• Willingness to participate in a rotating on-call schedule
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small, hands-on team environment
• Willingness to provide personal hand tools or gradually build a suitable tool collection
• Commitment to workplace safety, established maintenance procedures, and proper use of protective equipment

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contributions and matching opportunities
• Paid time off and sick leave
• Health savings account and wellness incentives
• Company-provided uniforms
• Optional paid travel opportunities
• Hands-on experience maintaining and overhauling large industrial engines
• Opportunities to develop specialized mechanical and power generation expertise

Pay

Salary range: $51,000 – $60,000 annually, depending on experience.

Schedule

Onsite Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM, with a rotating on-call schedule (approximately one week out of every four).