Operating Technician

NAES; Aquasco (MD); On-site; USD 30,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

NAES is seeking an Operating Technician at Chalk Point Generating Station in Aquasco, MD to support start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of seven gas turbines and two steam turbines. You will inspect equipment, perform minor repairs, follow control room directives, and maintain CMMS logs to ensure reliable plant performance.

The role requires strong data logging, calibration, and coordination with the Control Room Supervisor.

Qualifications

• An associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred.
• Equivalent technical training in industrial maintenance or instrumentation and controls may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Previous experience in power plant operations or a similar industrial environment is preferred.
• Knowledge of combustion turbine and/or steam turbine operations, electrical systems, industrial safety, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste management, and plant operating parameter monitoring and logging is desirable.
• Experience implementing or working within a lockout/tagout (LOTO) program for hazardous energy control is required.
• Familiarity with piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and process control systems is beneficial.
• Proficiency with work order systems or computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) is required.
• Understanding of plant mechanical and electrical systems, including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling equipment, water treatment, pollution control, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems, is essential.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary.
• Ability to collaborate effectively, work independently, and develop practical solutions to operational and maintenance challenges is expected.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of power plant systems.
• Operate auxiliary equipment to support plant functionality.
• Conduct operating tests and inspections; perform minor repairs and adjustments.
• Follow directives to clear and prepare equipment for service at isolated panels.
• Maintain detailed logs; document activities in CMMS/SAP work orders.
• Read meters, gauges, and automatic devices to record data like temperature, vibration, hours, pressure, and fluid levels.
• Perform visual inspections and listen for malfunctions to determine repairs or lubrication needs.
• Diagnose mechanical malfunctions and execute repairs, replacements, and component examinations.
• Calibrate plant instrumentation and electrical circuits using test equipment.
• Troubleshoot PLCs, plant control systems, and DCS; replace control cards and wiring terminations.
• Assist in other tasks as required by the O&M Manager.

Education

High School or better

Associate degree in Power Plant Technology or related field

Associates or better in Power Plant Technology or related field

Tools

CMMS

SAP

P&ID

PLCs

DCS

Job description

• Pay or shift range: $21.78 USD to $59.43 USD
  The estimated range is the budgeted amount for this position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications and other job-related reasons.

Description

Chalk Point Generating Station, situated in Aquasco, Maryland, is a key power generation facility with a total capacity of approximately 1,618 MW. The station features a diverse lineup of nine generating units, including seven gas turbines and two steam turbines. This strategic configuration enhances efficiency and reliability, ensuring the station effectively meets regional energy demands.

Opportunity Summary

The Operating Technician at Chalk Point Generating Station supports the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of auxiliary equipment across a facility with seven gas turbines and two steam turbines. Responsibilities include equipment inspections, minor repairs, supporting maintenance activities, following Control Room Operator directives, and documenting work in a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).

Your scope of responsibility as Operating Technician will include the following primary functions:

• Assist in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of power plant systems, ensuring smooth and efficient processes.
• Operate key auxiliary equipment, such as air compressors, demineralized water systems, lube oil cooling systems, hydraulic systems, and locally controlled electrical and mechanical devices, to support overall plant functionality.
• Conduct operating tests and inspections, performing necessary minor repairs and adjustments to maintain optimal equipment performance.
• Follow Control Room Supervisor directives to clear and prepare equipment for service at isolated panels, including tasks like clearing, tagging, testing, and applying safety tape according to procedures.
• Maintain detailed and accurate logs, ensuring all operational activities are thoroughly documented.
• Monitor and report any abnormal or irregular conditions that occur during operations, taking corrective actions as required within the scope of operating instructions.
• Provide support during maintenance periods, contributing to the upkeep and reliability of plant systems.
• Actively support the use of a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), demonstrating proficiency in system usage, consistent data entry, and alignment with the facility's maintenance philosophy.
• Accurately record equipment issues and document maintenance actions on SAP work orders, efficiently managing both corrective and preventive tasks while diligently tracking spare parts usage and initiating re-orders as needed.
• Regularly read meters, gauges, and automatic devices to record critical data, such as equipment temperature, vibration levels, hours of operation, pressure, and fluid levels, verifying proper operating conditions.
• Perform visual inspections and listen to equipment at scheduled intervals to detect malfunctions or identify the need for repairs, adjustments, or lubrication.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical malfunctions or failures in operational equipment, executing repairs, replacements, dismantling, and examination of defective parts. Ensure all components are properly lubricated and cleaned.
• Utilize a Fluke meter and other test equipment to accurately calibrate and repair plant instrumentation and electrical circuits.
• Safely terminate and connect 480 VAC motor wiring, ensuring proper installation and functionality.
• Assist in troubleshooting and inspecting programmable logic controllers (PLCs), plant control systems, and distributed control systems (DCS), including the replacement of control cards and wiring terminations.
• Perform additional tasks as required by the O&M Manager, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of plant operations.

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 Operating Technician reports to the Control Room Supervisor and takes general direction from plant management.

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 Operating Technician 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, and holidays as needed to support plant operations and business needs and may also require callout availability. Depending on the position, on-call status may or may not apply.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $21.78 to $59.43 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

The broad pay range accommodates candidates at all experience levels.

Operations Experience and Core Qualifications

• An associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent technical training in industrial maintenance or instrumentation and controls, or relevant industry or military experience, may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Previous experience in power plant operations or a similar industrial environment is preferred.
• Knowledge of combustion turbine and/or steam turbine operations, electrical systems, industrial safety, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste management, and plant operating parameter monitoring and logging is desirable.
• Experience implementing or working within a lockout/tagout (LOTO) program for hazardous energy control is required.
• Familiarity with piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and process control systems is beneficial.
• Proficiency with work order systems or computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) is required.
• Understanding of plant mechanical and electrical systems, including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling equipment, water treatment, pollution control, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems, is essential, along with related maintenance practices.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary.
• The ability to collaborate effectively, work independently, and develop practical solutions to operational and maintenance challenges is expected.
• 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.

Qualifications

Skills

Preferred

Safety Policies and Procedures Management

Intermediate

Intermediate

Intermediate

Power Generation

Intermediate

CMMS - Computerized Maintenance Mgmt System

Intermediate

Chemistry Analysis and Testing

Intermediate

Water Treatment

Intermediate

Water and Steam Chemistry

Intermediate

Chemical Handling and Safety

Intermediate

Intermediate

Combustion Turbine O&M

Intermediate

Steam Turbine O&M

Intermediate

P&ID - Piping & Instrumentation Design

Intermediate

Education

Required

High School or better.

Preferred

Associates or better in Power Plant Technology or related field.

Experience

Preferred

An associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent technical training in industrial maintenance or instrumentation and controls, or relevant industry or military experience, may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Previous experience in power plant operations or a similar industrial environment is preferred.

Knowledge of combustion turbine and/or steam turbine operations, electrical systems, industrial safety, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste management, and plant operating parameter monitoring and logging is desirable.

Experience implementing or working within a lockout/tagout (LOTO) program for hazardous energy control is required.

Familiarity with piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and process control systems is beneficial.

Proficiency with work order systems or computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) is required.

Understanding of plant mechanical and electrical systems, including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling equipment, water treatment, pollution control, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems, is essential, along with related maintenance practices.

Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary.

Ability to collaborate effectively, work independently, and develop practical solutions to operational and maintenance challenges is expected.

Licenses & Certifications

Required

Driver's License

Equal Opportunity Employer
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