Assistant Plant Operator

The Assistant Plant Operator performs field duties assisting the Power Plant Operations Shift Foreman and Fireman/Boiler Operator in the proper operation and minor maintenance of all the power plant machinery and equipment.

Work is performed under the supervision of the Power Plant Supervisory Staff and as directed by the Power Plant Operations Shift Foreman and Fireman-Boiler Operator. This position assists in the operation and maintenance of all the plant equipment including all boilers, turbines and their auxiliaries, transformers, air compressors, water filter, screens, and systems including steam systems. The person in the position is required to train and become qualified as a Fireman/Boiler Operator as openings occur.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Illustrative only):

• Performs boiler and turbine plant and pumphouse shift rounds checklist, records/monitors/adjusts turbine condenser temperature in and out; oil cooler temperature in and out; hot well temperature, low pressure, intermediate pressure, de-aerator heater and high, intermediate and low pressure heater temperatures and pressures, vacuum pumps, air compressors, hydrogen systems and High School Steam temperature and charts, circulating water pumps and screen status (cleaning as necessary), oil water separator, reverse osmosis and demineralizer, etc.; Check 4160 transformer temperature;
• Maintains cognizance of overall plant equipment and operation and works to identify equipment, procedural and drawing deficiencies, and takes appropriate corrective action to protect personnel and equipment utilizing operating experience, operating procedures, abnormal operating procedures, process drawings, technical manuals, computerized maintenance management system, etc.;
• Starts and stops turbines where local control is needed, air compressors, pumps, and other plant systems;
• Obtains CFB and package boiler, Closed Loop Cooling, District Heat loop water samples and analyzes. Makes chemical injection adjustments based on findings.
• Operates coal yard runoff filter system, samples effluent, and monitors for acceptable discharge turbidity levels;
• Performs fugitive dust and control equipment observations and takes action to ensure the site is meeting fugitive dust control plan requirements;
• Assists Fireman/Boiler Operator when needed (coal chute plugs, feeder jams, ash lines, unloading limestone, etc.);
• Checks, maintains and operates the auxiliary equipment on CFB boilers including but not limited to blowers, limestone system, I.D. & F.D. fans, ash removal and reinjection system, and hydrated lime injection systems;
• Supports fuel loading and ash, and material handling as required;
• Performs minor maintenance & tests when needed;
• Cleans equipment and maintains assigned cleaning areas;
• Observes plant safety rules, performs assigned tasks in a safe manner and is alert for unsafe acts and conditions;
• Changes generator hydrogen bottles;
• Unloads limestone and hydrated lime into plant as directed; occasionally transfers demineralized water to tanker trailer for transport to Combustion Turbine.
• Performs maintenance activities and operational requirements of the Preventive Maintenance Program;
• Fills the role of Relief Assistant Plant Operator if necessary, reporting to Maintenance when not in the Assistant Plant Operator role, to assist with Preventative and Corrective Maintenance activities.
• Operate heavy equipment including end loaders, stackers, sweeper, etc; operates fuel loading systems and loads fuel to plant on weekends and or as directed;
• Performs other duties which are similar, related or incidental to this position, including duties assigned in other job titles; and
• Other related work as requested by supervisor.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• A High School degree or equivalent is required; two-year college degree is preferred;
• Previous power plant experience preferred;
• Prior to standing watch independently, an Assistant Plant Operator trainee must pass a verbal questioning and/or written test by the Power Plant Operations & Production Supervisor.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the functions and mechanics of pumps, electrical equipment, machinery and instrumentation along with the ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment in operation to detect operational flaws and defects is needed;
• Ability to communicate clearly, utilizing 3-way communication and phonetic alphabet where appropriate;
• Ability to read and operate gauge meters, computers, bailey control system and logging system accurately;
• Ability to conduct accurate analysis of readings and logs to determine machine adjustments.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to perform demanding physical tasks at times such as walking over rough or uneven surfaces, bending, stooping, working in confined spaces and lifting or carrying moderately heavy (up to 75 lb.) items;

• Must be able to work in hot or cold environmental conditions, confined, dirty/dusty areas, work at heights, climb ladders, traverse long flights of stairs, shovel, and scrape, while utilizing appropriate safety equipment and procedures;

• Ability to operate complex gasoline, electric or diesel-powered machinery or shop equipment requiring manipulation of multiple controls, fine adjustments or both;
• Exposure to adverse environmental conditions;
• Color, sound, odor, depth, hearing and visual perception and discrimination;
• Mental alertness;
• Good oral communication ability;
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and a good driving record;
• Ability to work rotating shifts for 24-hour coverage is mandatory;
• Residency requirement as outlined in the MPU Employee Policy Manual;
• May be required to use personal vehicle for use on the job.