Power Plant Operator - Apprentice Level 1

About the role

Conemaugh Generating Station is a 2-Unit, 1700-MW rated coal-fired power plant. The Apprentice I Operator is the first of four progressions to the Power Plant Operator position. A fully qualified Apprentice 1 is responsible for in‑depth knowledge of the Bottom Ash and Pyrite Removal System, the Pulverizers, the Generator Auxiliary Systems in the basement, and the Auxiliary Boilers. The Apprentice 1 must also have a basic knowledge of all other equipment including equipment layout, nomenclature and purpose, and inspection guidelines for equipment located in the basement area of the plant. Understanding of unit start‑up, shut‑down, normal operation, and alarm response to all equipment in this area is required.

Responsibilities

• Operate, lubricate, and inspect boilers and turbine auxiliary equipment.
• Perform daily equipment rounds and inspections (boiler, turbine, cooling towers, ash removal systems) using handheld data collectors.
• Execute equipment isolation and tagging in compliance with safety standards.
• Monitor and ensure safe operation of generation units during normal, start‑up, and shutdown conditions.
• Respond to alarms and troubleshoot issues within assigned areas.
• Apply and adhere to all safety procedures, including confined space entry and lockout/tagout.
• Maintain alertness and situational awareness throughout shifts.

Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or GED required; two‑year technical degree or relevant military experience preferred.
• Successful completion of EEI POSS test and entry‑level operator classification exam.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to organize and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Commitment to a four‑year tenure in Operations upon achieving full operator status.
• Working knowledge of station systems and safety protocols.
• Solid problem‑solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and apply cause‑and‑effect logic.
• Proficiency in computer applications and data entry tools.
• Must be legally authorized for employment in the United States and not require employer‑sponsored work authorization.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Long‑term disability (LTD)
• Short‑term disability (STD)
• Life insurance
• Additional “a la carte” benefits
• 401(k) plan
• Flexible spending accounts (medical and childcare)
• Employee referral program
• Tuition reimbursement program

Pay

$34.25 per hour

Schedule

Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, off shifts, and outages.