Chief Operating Engineer

NES Fircroft; Northeastern Ontario; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering staffing provider is seeking a qualified Chief Operating Engineer for a thermal power plant in Northeastern Ontario. This role involves overseeing operations, maintenance, and compliance of power generation assets. The ideal candidate will have a valid 1st Class Power Engineer certificate, over 10 years of experience in gas turbine operations, and strong leadership skills to manage diverse teams and ensure optimal plant performance. This position offers a dynamic work environment focused on safety and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Valid 1st Class Power (Operating) Engineer certificate.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in gas turbine operations.
• Strong interpretation skills for technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Lead plant operations and maintenance activities.
• Supervise staff operators, electricians, and contractors.
• Monitor operational performance and compliance.
• Maintain communication with regulatory bodies.
• Provide technical guidance and leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Situational analysis

Communication skills in English

Attention to detail

Education

Certificate or diploma in electromechanics, electrotechnology, electricity, processes, and/or mechanics

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Chief Operating Engineer

Position Location: Based at the power plant facility in Cochrane, ON.

Introduction

We are seeking a qualified and experienced candidate to fill the position of Chief Operating Engineer (COE) for a thermal power plant. The position will be effective as soon as possible.

Description

Reporting to the Managing Director, the Chief Operating Engineer is responsible for the operations and maintenance of the organization’s power generation assets. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading plant operations and maintenance activities to ensure maximum readiness of the facility’s gas turbine and associated equipment.
• Supervising staff operators, electricians, and contractors.
• Monitoring operational performance and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements in coordination with the Plant Manager.
• Maintaining proactive communication with regulatory bodies and internal teams to minimize operational issues and maximize production.
• Providing technical guidance and leadership through on-site presence and operational expertise.
• Ensuring the plant is fully prepared to meet dispatch instructions from the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) or equivalent authority.
• Advising on equipment replacement, repair, retrofit, and budgeting to support long‑term operational readiness.

Candidate Profile

• Certification: Valid 1st Class Power (Operating) Engineer certificate issued by the Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) or equivalent.
• Experience: Minimum 10 years’ experience in gas turbine operations.
• Education: Certificate or diploma in electromechanics, electrotechnology, electricity, processes, and/or mechanics.

Technical Knowledge

• Electrical circuits, PLC systems, hydraulic circuits, and heavy machinery.
• Experience with dispatch systems (e.g., Day Ahead Market), transmission operators, and regulatory processes.
• Strong interpretation skills for technical drawings (civil, mechanical, electrical), specifications, and wiring diagrams.
• Comprehensive understanding of thermal power generation operations and applicable health and safety standards.

IT Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and other relevant tools.

Attributes

• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Sound judgment and quick decision-making to ensure safety and compliance.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and situational analysis during equipment malfunctions.
• Attention to detail, quality, and rigor in all tasks.
• Effective priority and time management.
• Proactive approach to anticipating and mitigating operational issues.
• High integrity and physical readiness for on‑site responsibilities.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken); working knowledge of French is an asset.

About NES Fircroft

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market‑leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.