Plant Operator

Job Summary

Ensure plant operation in a safe and effective manner in accordance with design specifications, procedures and policies. Facilitate the operation of a biomass-fueled boiler, associated turbine-generator unit, and auxiliary equipment by monitoring unit performance and adjusting control devices. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Perform other related duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Operate biomass fuel fired boiler, turbine, generator and related auxiliary equipment:

· Start up or shut down boiler/turbine/generator and support system equipment

· Monitor generating facility control boards and performance of boiler and turbine generator.

· Control operation of plant pumps, fans, control valves, boiler/turbine control

system and other system support equipment.

· Adjust controls for proper system operation.

· Determine problem areas and analyze causes.

· Regulate equipment using recording and indicating devices.

· Follow operating and administrative procedures.

· Interface with plant computer systems.

· Dispatch Station Unit Loading in conjunction with MISO requirements.

· Help coordinate plant maintenance activities.

· Inform plant supervision of current or potential problems.

· Maintain communication with MISO.

· Maintain open communication between shifts.

· Direct routine inspection of the plant by the operating assistants, take action to direct the correction of problems and/or make recommendations for the repair or replacement of needed items and equipment.

· Verify equipment in the plant is operating within design parameters.

· Use OEM and vendor manuals for a better understanding of processes and equipment.

Maintain necessary documents:

· Record malfunctions of equipment, instruments, and controls

· Maintain operating logs/trend readings as needed

Communication

· Must be able to clearly communicate using telephones, two-way radios and PA system.

Return plant to normal operating condition:

· Respond to appropriate alarms to correct abnormal conditions

· Monitor plant parameters and follow established procedures

· Alert supervision of any abnormal conditions.

Respond to emergencies:

· Implement plant emergency procedures

· Perform assigned duties.

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE: 4 years of operating experience is preferred and/or 1A Assistant Operator status with high pressure boilers, or equivalent experience. Strong understanding of the combustion, steam and water cycles associated with plant operation.

SPECIAL ABILITIES: Ability to read and interpret control board gauges, graphs and indicating devices to analyze operating conditions and to respond appropriately. Show a high level of job responsibility, good judgment, and the ability to arrive at sound decisions. Be dependable, cooperative, and able to get along well with fellow employees. Should have a high mechanical aptitude and must have a high degree of system knowledge as it pertains to the operation and maintenance of the plant.

SPECIAL SKILLS: Operate various plant controls and interface with the plant computer system. Personnel must have the ability to learn new controls and instruments to advance the operation of the plant.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Routinely handle objects weighing up to 25 pounds and on occasion may be expected to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

Must be medically cleared and adequately groomed to wear respiratory protection, if required.

JOB CONDITIONS

Work performed with leadership from plant supervision.

Standard workweek may consist of eight‑hour or 12 hour day on a rotating shift basis with overtime as required. Various shift cycles are a potential.

Work is generally performed in an indoor shop/plant environment. They may be exposed to excessive heat and cold, excessive noise, fumes, electrical energy, and other hazards normally associated with power plants. Work is done around moving objects or vehicles, on slippery or uneven walking surfaces, on ladders or scaffolding, below ground and in high and confined places. Personnel must wear hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, respirator and other personal protective safety equipment as required.

OTHER SKILLS: Operate various plant controls and interface with the plant computer system. Personnel must have the ability to learn new controls and instruments to advance the operation of the plant.

Additional Requirements

· Must possess a valid driver's license.

· Present a positive attitude with the ability to function as a team player.

· Be able to effectively communicate between operations, maintenance, supervisors, and contractors.

· Present a professional and courteous manner when using the workplace telephone.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Overtime

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

• Manufacturing: 1 year (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Lanse, MI 49946 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Lanse, MI 49946: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person