Plant Operator

Ormat Technologies; Austin (NV); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ormat Technologies seeks a Plant Operator to ensure safe, efficient operation of the power plant. You will monitor systems, respond to alarms, and log activities in line with procedures.

Responsibilities include operating equipment, performing maintenance, and coordinating with engineers and technicians to meet generation targets. Strong communication and a valid driver’s license are required.

Qualifications

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions to the areas of assignment as would be acquired in four years of high school.
• Must be able to read, write and speak English at a level which will permit safe performance of job duties.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to company policy.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, Outlook and Internet for communication and data entry.
• Experience levels vary by Plant Operator level (2/3/4) and collaboration with contractors.

Responsibilities

• Strictly adhere to safety procedures and complete operator safety qualifications in time.
• Control and monitor power generation equipment during operation, maintenance, and repairs.
• Review operating data, troubleshoot, and take corrective actions.
• Maintain logs and monitor displays to ensure proper production.
• Participate in planning, scheduling, and training activities.
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks and fire equipment testing.
• Operate plant computer data entry and support shift supervision as needed.

Skills

Safety procedures

Communications

MS Excel

Driver's license

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Tools

MS Excel

Outlook

Internet

Job description

Position Summary

The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that the operation of the power plant is safely and efficiently carried out in accordance with Plant Safety Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures. Additional duties include; monitoring plant systems and equipment on a continuous basis, and responding to alarms and out of specification parameters by taking appropriate corrective action.

Essential Functions

• Strictly adhere to and enforce safety procedures and successfully complete operator safety qualifications within the designated timeframes.
• Control a variety of power‑generation equipment and machinery during normal operation, scheduled maintenance, and emergency repair procedures.
• Review routine operating data troubleshoot abnormal indications and take corrective actions.
• Utilize a variety of analog and digital informational displays to understand operational performance variables, maintain a chronological log of plant activities and ensure optimal level of production.
• Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities.
• Prepare, review, edit, and recommend operating procedures.
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks (PM’s).
• Perform fire equipment testing.
• Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts.
• Must be able to operate a vehicle in a safe manner, enter and exit vehicle without assistance.
• Must be able to remain alert while driving for continuous period of time and read and understand maps.
• Must be able to work overtime, weekends and holidays when necessary.
• Must be able to work 12-hour rotating shifts and cover call outs as required.
• Must be able to read and follow written procedures.
• Must be able to interpret mechanical process and electrical drawings.
• Monitor meters, gauges, and control boards to verify operational parameters, and adjust equipment, generator output, voltage, and electricity flow rates according to standard protocols and power grid requirements.
• Attends monthly safety and Operator training as required.
• Participate in regular training to improve performance, acquire professional licenses, and maintain certifications required by Ormat and government regulations.
• When assigned as a Plant Operator 2,3, or 4:
  • Successfully complete the Plant Operator 2 qualifications within the designated timeframes.
  • Collaborate with contractors and vendors for all activities.
• When assigned as a Plant Operator 3 or 4:
  • Successfully complete the Plant Operator 3 qualifications within the designated timeframes.
  • Collaborate with contractors and vendors for all activities.
• Take readings and enter data into the plant computer.
• Participate in the administrative maintenance of the plant operating manuals.
• Direct activities and assist in training plant operators.
• Review station and equipment logs.
• Respond to plant recovery following upsets.
• Maintain proficiency in the operation of the plant.
• Assure that the plant meets its generation requirements while operating in a safe and efficient manner.
• Perform Shift Supervisor duties when needed.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with other power plant personnel, including managers, engineers and repair technicians to encourage teamwork and coordinate tasks.

Other Responsibilities

• Performs environmental and general housekeeping duties.
• Perform other duties as directed.

Education, Experience, and Skills Required

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions to the areas of assignment as would be acquired in four years of high school
• Must be able to read, write and speak English at a level which will permit the employee to accurately understand and communicate information to perform the job duties safely and efficiently.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to Ormat’s Safe Driving policy.
• Must be able to use and acquire knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in e-mail communications and spreadsheets. Must be proficient in MS Excel, Outlook, and use of the Internet.
• Must be able to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Experience:
  • Plant Operator 2: Six (6) months of experience as a Plant Operator 1 or demonstrated ability to perform the Plant Operator 1 tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Plant Operator 3:
    • Must have one (1) year experience as a Plant Operator 2 or demonstrated ability to perform the Plant Operator 2 and Plant Operator 3 tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Leadership skills of supervisory experience with the ability to move into a shift supervisor role is a plus.
  • Plant Operator 4:
    • Must have one (1) year experience as a Plant Operator 3 or demonstrated ability to perform the Plant Operator 3 and Plant Operator 4 tasks with little or no supervision.

Physical Requirements

• The ability to lift 50 lbs. periodically.
• Must be able to frequently climb to and work off of elevated platforms, ladders and walkways.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces and in harsh weather conditions.
• Must be able to wear and work in fire retardant clothing provided by Ormat.
• Must wear protective equipment in the performance of some duties as required by safety procedures and regulations.
• Plant Operator 1 & 2: This job requires sitting 30% of the time and standing 70%.
• Plant Operator 3 & 4: This job requires sitting 80% of the time with the ability to stay alert.