Auxiliary Operator

NAES; Sayreville (NJ); On-site; USD 58,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

Middlesex Generating in Sayreville, NJ, is seeking an Auxiliary Plant Operator to support safe, reliable operation of a landfill gas-fired cogeneration facility. You’ll monitor equipment, conduct rounds, document conditions, and assist with maintenance under supervision.

The role offers hands-on experience with combined-cycle systems, along with training toward becoming a fully qualified Operator. The position requires adherence to safety and environmental procedures.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of power plant operations and safety procedures.
• Experience reading P&IDs and industrial diagrams is a plus.
• Associate degree in a related field is preferred; boiler license desirable.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and record plant operations using manual rounds and computerized systems.
• Operate safely and reliably, maintaining all main and auxiliary equipment.
• Start up, shut down, and operate steam turbine/generator systems per procedures.
• Maintain knowledge of manuals, procedures, and emergency protocols.
• Utilize CMMS to track maintenance and submit work orders.
• Train and mentor new operators once qualified.

Skills

Procedural interpretation

Power plant operations knowledge

Combustion and steam turbine basics

Power generation equipment familiarity

P&IDs & process diagrams

Industrial safety practices

MS Office 365

Valid U.S. driver's license

Education

Associate degree in Power Plant Technology, Engineering, Process Technology, or related field

New Jersey Boiler License (Black Seal) — desirable

Tools

CMMS

Process control systems

Job description

Middlesex Generating is a landfill gas-fired cogeneration plant situated in Sayreville, NJ, boasting a 17-megawatt (MW) combined cycle facility. Central to its operation are two Solar Tarus T60 Solar Gas Turbines, ensuring efficiency. To maximize performance, we've seamlessly integrated an Elliot Steam Turbine and a Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG) into the system. This integration allows us to harness waste heat, thus optimizing our power generation process.

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Operator supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Middlesex Generating facility by monitoring plant equipment, conducting rounds, documenting operating conditions, and responding to changing plant conditions. This developmental role provides hands-on experience with landfill gas-fired combined-cycle systems while building the knowledge and qualifications needed to progress toward a fully qualified Operator position. The Auxiliary Operator uses manual and computerized systems to support generating requirements while maintaining compliance with established safety, environmental, and operating procedures.

Your scope of responsibility as Auxiliary Plant Operator will include the following primary functions:

• Monitor and record the operation of the landfill gas-fired combined cycle power plant using manual rounds and computerized systems.
• Operate the plant safely, efficiently, and reliably, maintaining all main and auxiliary equipment.
• Perform plant start-up, shutdown, and routine operations of steam turbine/generator systems following established procedures.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of plant systems, operating manuals, procedures, and emergency response protocols, and execute them as required.
• Operate within plant environmental parameters, including monitoring water chemistry, steam quality, and boiler chemistry.
• Conduct routine inspections of plant equipment and systems to ensure proper operation and identify potential issues.
• Utilize the CMMS to track maintenance needs, submit work orders, support corrective maintenance, and complete preventive maintenance tasks.
• Operate and monitor electrical switchgear, circuit breakers, and other electrical systems safely.
• Accurately maintain and update plant logs, records, and reports using electronic systems and company software.
• Follow all safety procedures, including Lock-out/Tag-out, and ensure the plant and equipment are kept clean and orderly.
• Assist in testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining plant systems and equipment under supervision as required.
• Train and mentor new operators once qualified, and complete required company training and qualification programs.
• Communicate effectively with supervision and operations/maintenance personnel regarding plant conditions, performance, and improvement suggestions.
• Ensure accuracy in submitted defective equipment reports and other documentation.
• Foster positive working relationships with internal staff and external company personnel as required.
• Perform tasks under supervision of Control Room Operator, Lead O&M Technician, and Control Room Operators.

NAES Safe

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 and Maintenance Manager and takes general direction from the Plant Manager or Control Room Operator depending on assigned duties. This position coordinates with all other plant personnel as it pertains to the safe and efficient operation of Middlesex Generating.

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 a modified DuPont rotating 12-hour shift schedule, ensuring 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts that includes built-in rest days. This position will require extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call availability as needed to support plant operations and business needs.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $27.88 to $39.02 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.
• A New Jersey Black Seal boiler operator's license is desired but not required.
• Demonstrated knowledge or entry-level experience in power plant operations, including monitoring and recording parameters, following procedures, assisting with maintenance, and understanding emergency response protocols. Candidates with 0–2 years of plant experience will be considered.
• Basic theoretical and practical understanding of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed-loop steam generation, and fundamental thermodynamic principles.
• Working knowledge of power generation equipment, including motors, pumps, boilers, turbines, generators, fluid systems, water treatment and chemical handling systems, cooling towers, emissions control equipment, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), process flow diagrams, and related schematics, with familiarity with process control and plant monitoring systems.
• Understanding of industrial safety practices, hazardous waste handling, and accurate inspection and documentation of plant operating parameters to support safe and compliant operations.
• Proficiency with basic hand and shop tools, Microsoft Office 365 for documentation and reporting, and a strong work ethic with a commitment to learning and skill development.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We serve clients across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors throughout North America and internationally, supporting the full life cycle of power generation and other industrial facilities.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, USERRA-protected status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.