Auxiliary Operator

NAES; Agawam (MA); On-site; USD 67,502 - 75,768; Full time

Job summary

NAES's Berkshire Power Plant in Massachusetts seeks an Auxiliary Operator to support safe start‑up, shutdown, and daily operations of a 250 MW combined‑cycle facility. You will monitor auxiliary equipment, perform inspections, and work with the Maintenance Team to troubleshoot and maintain plant systems.

The role includes using CMMS for maintenance planning, keeping logs, following safety rules, and training others.

Qualifications

• Four years of high school and related training; associate degree preferred.
• Possession of MA Second Class Fireman license is required or preferred.
• Possession of MA Third Class or Second‑Class Engineer license preferred.
• OSHA forklift operator certification preferred.
• Experience with power plant machinery operations and maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Assist start-up, shutdown and routine operations of plant systems safely and efficiently.
• Operate and monitor major auxiliary equipment and related electrical/mechanical systems.
• Perform rounds, take instrument readings, and report abnormalities.
• Conduct operational tests, inspections, and diagnostics; perform repairs as needed.
• Follow control room orders to prepare equipment for service; clear, tag, test and secure.
• Support CMMS maintenance tracking, logs and materials ordering.
• Assist with Lockout/Tagout procedures and safety practices.
• Unload, handle, and sample bulk chemicals for analysis.
• Maintain up‑to‑date operation logs and plant housekeeping.
• Participate in safety training and process improvement initiatives.

Skills

Procedural literacy

Power plant operations

Auxiliary equipment operation

Electrical safety awareness

Valid driver’s license

Education

Associate degree in Power Plant Technology / Engineering / Process Technology

Massachusetts Second Class Fireman License

Massachusetts Third Class or Second-Class Engineer License

OSHA forklift operator certification

Tools

CMMS software

Job description

The Berkshire Power Plant is a 250 MW natural gas‑fired, combined cycle facility featuring a single‑shaft gas turbine. The facility utilizes a 340 MVA water‑and air‑cooled generator driven by both a 150 MW ALSTOM GT‑24B gas turbine and an ALSTOM triple‑pressure condensing steam turbine, producing an additional 100 MW. The gas turbine exhausts into a dual‑pressure reheat Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG), operating at near‑critical pressures.

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Operator supports the safe and efficient operation of power plant systems by assisting with start‑up, shutdown, and daily operations to ensure reliable performance. This role monitors auxiliary equipment, performs routine inspections and operational tests, and works closely with the Maintenance Team to troubleshoot and maintain plant equipment. The Auxiliary Operator also utilizes CMMS software to manage maintenance activities, maintains accurate operating logs, ensures compliance with safety standards, and contributes to continuous improvement through training and procedure development.

Scope of Responsibility

• Assist in the start‑up, shutdown, and routine operations of power plant systems, ensuring all processes are carried out safely and efficiently.
• Operate and monitor major auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, circulating water systems, boiler feedwater treatment systems, wastewater systems, generator cooling systems, and boiler feedwater and condensate systems, as well as locally controlled electrical and mechanical systems, ensuring optimal functionality.
• Perform regular equipment rounds, take critical readings from instruments, and report abnormal conditions to the appropriate personnel.
• Perform operational tests, inspections, and diagnostics, making necessary repairs and adjustments to assigned equipment to maintain peak operating conditions.
• Execute orders from the Control Room Operator to clear equipment or prepare it for service at isolated panels, adhering to operating instructions and procedures. This includes clearing, tagging, testing, and securing operations with safety tape to ensure safety and proper functioning.
• Report abnormal or irregular conditions during operations and take corrective action in accordance with established procedures to prevent operational disruptions.
• Assist the Maintenance Team with Lockout/Tagout procedures, equipment identification, troubleshooting, work request preparation, and other tasks to support safe and effective maintenance execution.
• Use Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) software to track maintenance activities, document plant deficiencies, schedule work, and order materials.
• Assist in the development of standard operating procedures as assigned.
• Complete required plant training and assist in the training of others.
• Unload, handle, and transfer bulk chemicals, and take samples for analysis and testing.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date logs of operations, ensuring all records are complete and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Maintain plant housekeeping and security.
• Follow safe working practices, identify hazards, and take corrective action as approved by management.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Control Room Operator or Operations Manager, supporting efficient plant operations.

Safety

Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees must also adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property. Additionally, they are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Adherence to these safety responsibilities is one of the key factors in the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Working Relationships

The Auxiliary Plant Operator reports to the Operations Manager and takes direction from the Plant Manager.

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.

Power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near equipment and varying outdoor weather conditions.

Some duties may require the use of protective equipment, which can include hard hats, safety glasses, and eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame‑resistant clothing (FRC), hot gloves, high‑voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions apply in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post‑offer physical examination, drug screening, and post‑employment random drug screening.

Work Schedule

The Auxiliary Operator follows DuPont’s rotating 12‑hour shift schedule, providing 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts to ensure consistent and reliable plant operation. This position will also occasionally necessitate extended working hours and flexible shifts as needed, including weekends and holidays, in response to schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or “On call” status will also be required.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $49.00 to $55.00 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications And Skills

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions specific to the area of assignment as would be acquired in four years of high school. Associate degree in Power Plant Technology, Engineering, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred.
• Must currently possess and maintain a valid Massachusetts Second Class Fireman License throughout employment.
• Possession of a valid Massachusetts Third Class or Second-Class Engineer License is preferred.
• Possession of a valid OSHA‑compliant forklift operator certification is also preferred.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain required Massachusetts licenses under Chapter 146, Section 50 of the Massachusetts General Laws upon becoming eligible.
• Experience in power plant machinery operations and/or maintenance, with a fundamental knowledge of Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant and/or water process operations and their associated roles and duties.
• Proven track record in technician or operations roles within power generation, with hands‑on experience in operating and maintaining major auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, circulating water systems, boiler feedwater treatment systems, wastewater systems, generator cooling systems, and associated electrical and mechanical systems.
• Theoretical and/or practical knowledge of combustion/steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, industrial safety, hazardous waste management, and plant parameter inspection/recording is desirable, but not mandatory.
• Knowledge and a basic understanding of electrical systems, including high‑voltage safety protocols and basic electrical theory.
• Familiarity with piping and instrumentation schematics and process controls is beneficial, but not essential.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.