Powerhouse Operator

Primary Function:
Operates steam and gas turbo-generators, air compressors, boilers, auxiliary equipment, water plant, and assists Control Operator and Boiler Operator in coordination of power, steam, air, river water and drinking water production.

Tools and Equipment:
Plant control and recording instruments, switches, switchgear, turbine generators, auxiliary equipment, testing equipment, oil purifier, small hand tools, computers, forced draft fans, waste heat boilers, cooling equipment, boiler feed water and condensate heaters, water treatment plant, river water pumps, emergency fire pump, boiler feed pumps, small hand tools, feed water booster pumps, condensate transfer pumps, hydrostatic pumps, etc.

Working Description:

• Starts and stops steam and gas turbo-generator units, operates control switches, switchgear, electrical power feeder switches and auxiliary equipment controls.
• Operates and checks turbo-generator auxiliary equipment, such as condensate pumps, hydrogen system, lubrication oil system, checks air compressors and freeze protection system.
• Operates emergency generator and air compressors and auxiliary equipment.
• Assists the Control Operator and Boiler Operator in the regulation of Power Plant operating conditions by instrumentation and communications, maintaining logs.
• Inspects D. C. control room and battery room for proper operations..
• Collects and tests condensate and boiler water samples, adding chemicals to feedwater as required.
• Takes periodic inventory of chemicals, oil, etc., and reports results to supervisor.
• Responsible for keeping operating equipment clean and in an orderly condition and maintaining general housekeeping in the work area.
• Performs those production adjustment and repair functions, which do not require a specialized craft skill.
• Operates waste heat boilers, auxiliary equipment, and water plant.
• Assists the Boiler Operator in the operation of boilers, boiler auxiliaries, and lubricates operating equipment as required.
• Observes, takes readings, and makes adjustments as required on boilers, boiler auxiliaries, and boiler feed pumps.
• Places in service the pressure reducing and de-superheating stations.
• Assists the Boiler Operator in removing or placing boilers into service.
• Checks river water pumps and fire pumps for operation and condition.
• Maintains proper levels, tests, and chemically treats water in Water Treatment Plant.
• Collects and tests boiler water and condensate samples as required.

Materials Handled:
Power, steam, gas, hydrogen, oil, water, chemicals, lubricants, acid, air, natural gas, lubricants, alcohol, chlorine, etc.