OPERATIONS TECHNICIAN -RIO GRANDE POWER PLANT

El Paso Electric Company; New Mexico; On-site; USD 103,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

El Paso Electric Company in New Mexico seeks an Operations Technician for the Power Generation department to ensure safe, efficient operation of pumps, turbines, boilers, and related equipment. Under Shift Supervisor, you'll perform routine inspections, monitor performance, and support outages while maintaining safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

The role requires a high school diploma, completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent training, and at least two years of plant

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completed Power Plant Operator Apprenticeship or equivalent training; additional technical education preferred.
• At least two years of power plant operations experience.
• Must pass a Human Performance Evaluation (HPE).

Responsibilities

• Inspect and record plant data to ensure safe performance using control systems and manual observation.
• Operate and monitor plant systems in accordance with SOPs and safety regulations.
• Support outages and scheduled maintenance activities and troubleshoot major plant systems.
• Document performance, maintenance activities, and safety checks in logs and digital systems.
• Travel between sites may be required and adhere to PPE and lockout/tagout procedures.

Skills

Operational experience

Safety awareness

Equipment monitoring

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Power Plant Operator Apprenticeship Program

Tools

Control systems

Hand tools

Logbooks/logging

Job description

Job Description

Date Posted

09/28/2026

Closing Date

10/05/2026

Grade Level

U

Department

Power Generation

Starting Salary

$51.97

Job Purpose

The Operations Technician is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation and maintenance of all equipment within the power plant. This includes, but is not limited to, pumps, motors, boilers, turbines, generators, valves, electrical systems, and associated mechanical and control components. Under the direction of the Shift Supervisor, the technician performs routine inspections, monitors equipment performance, and operates plant systems and equipment as directed to ensure optimal functionality and compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards. This role is essential to maintaining continuous power generation and supporting outage and maintenance activities as required.

Education And/Or Special Training

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Successful completion of an approved Power Plant Operator Apprenticeship Program or an equivalent training program; additional education or training in a related technical or engineering field is preferred.

Experience And Minimum Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in power plant operations, with emphasis on conventional steam generating units, simple cycle gas turbines, and combined-cycle units, including equipment monitoring, system control, and response to operational conditions.
• Prior experience in plant operations or as an O&M technician is preferred, with demonstrated ability to operate and troubleshoot major plant systems such as turbines, boilers, generators, and electrical equipment under the direction of supervisory staff.
• Must pass a Human Performance Evaluation (HPE).

Essential Job Functions

• Routinely inspect and record operational data (e.g., fluid levels, temperatures, pressures) from plant systems to ensure optimal and safe performance. Use control systems and manual observation to detect anomalies and initiate corrective actions. Conduct basic maintenance using hand tools and assist skilled trades during outages and scheduled maintenance. Support troubleshooting and repair of mechanical and electrical systems. Safely start, stop, and adjust equipment such as pumps, motors, valves, feeders, and treatment systems. Maintain operational readiness of reverse osmosis systems, cooling towers, fuel tanks, and water wells.
• Operate and monitor chlorine, acid, phosphate, fuel oil, condenser, and water treatment systems in accordance with environmental and safety regulations. Maintain continuous communication with the Control Room Operator to ensure coordinated and efficient plant operations. Respond promptly to operational directives and alarms. Wear required PPE and follow all safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures, hazardous waste handling, and emergency response actions. Read and apply procedures from technical manuals, schematics, and SOPs. Ensure compliance with regulatory and company standards. Engage in ongoing training programs to stay current with operational technologies, safety practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Document equipment performance, maintenance activities, and safety checks in logs and digital systems. Support reporting and compliance audits.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains. Participate in planning and execution of outages and upgrades.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and comply with company driving policies. Travel between sites may be required. Driving Policy.
• Comply with all applicable company policies, procedures, and code of ethics, as well as all relevant governmental laws and regulations, including those related to employment, safety, and environmental standards. Performs other related tasks that are not included but are within the context of duties defined.