Apprentice Operator Level 1

Description
This Apprentice Operator is responsible for activities related to the operation of a coal-fired 1700 MW plant which operates on 24/7 schedule and is manned on a rotating shift basis. This position is responsible for the safe operation of the generating units including areas of the boiler, turbine, condensers, coal pulverizers, ash removal systems, and auxiliary equipment. The candidate must successfully complete the Power Plant Operator Entrance Knowledge Exam. The candidate must also be able to pass a pulmonary function/respirator fit test. The candidate must reside within a reasonable distance from the facility in order to be available for callouts and emergencies.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Ability to perform the duties of the position in a safe manner.
• Operate and perform lubrication and inspection of boilers and turbine auxiliary equipment.
• Operate ash and mill pyrite equipment.
• Perform daily inspections and rounds of equipment.
• Perform equipment isolation and tagging.
• Assist in troubleshooting operational problems.
• Apply knowledge of steam power plant operations and basic power plant principles to daily decision-making and work tasks
• Operate computers and printers
• Discern and respond to verbal and auditory signals from operating system.
• Work without supervision inspection while carrying out duties.
• Knowledge of and ability to operate various switches and the effect it has on operation.
• Meet physical requirements of the job such as perform tasks while standing, walking, climbing, and squatting. Work with extended reach above head and in front of body and lift 50 pounds and carry while walking distances of up to 10 feet.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• technical diploma or secondary education in power generation is preferred
• Successful completion of the Power Plant Operator Entrance Knowledge Exam.
• Successful candidate will work as part of a team and ensure they are operating economically, efficiently, safely and within state/federal compliance at all times.
• Understanding of basic electrical theory.
• Understanding of basic cause and effect logic.
• Competent computer skills.
• Must be available for callouts/emergencies.
• Good communication, organizational and interpersonal skills.

Working Conditions

• Power plant environment. Work in and around rotating equipment, high voltage electrical equipment, dusty areas, high noise areas and high elevations.
• Work in all temperatures and climate conditions. Some temperatures can be extreme.
• Work in confined spaces, some requiring the use of respirator protective equipment.
• Performance of duties requires working rotating shifts and response to calls 24 hours/day, seven days/week.
• Emergency situations will require the use of a respirator and established facial hair in the sealing area of a respirator is not permitted.
• Reside within a reasonable distance from the facility in order to be available for callouts and emergencies.
• Requires standing, sitting, walking, kneeling, twisting, climbing stairs and ladders.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE)