Technician Senior - Operations

Grand River Dam Authority; United States; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Grand River Dam Authority seeks a Senior Technician – Operations (Control Room Operator) to monitor and control a multi-unit power plant from the Control Room. Responsibilities include startup/shutdown, alarms management, and ensuring safe, efficient operation to meet generation needs.

The role requires Plant Operator IV qualification, with six months to obtain if not already held, plus strong communication skills and a background in gas turbine/coal systems.

Qualifications

• Must complete Plant Operator IV Qualification within 6 months if not already held.
• Gas Turbine and coal experience desirable.
• Knowledge of gas/steam turbine operations and process controls.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate startup/shutdown of a power generation facility from the Control Room.
• Continuously monitor plant systems and respond to alarms and upset conditions.
• Coordinate operations and maintenance with on-site Operators/Technicians.
• Assist field personnel during maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Plant Operator IV Qualification

Gas Turbine experience

Coal experience

Piping & instrument diagrams

Process controls

Oral & written communication

Power plant industry knowledge

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in a technical field (desirable)

Technical degree/certification considered as qualifying experience

Tools

CMMS

Job description

Technician Senior – Operations (Control Room Operator)

This job posting will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on the date listed below. November 16, 2026 We deliver affordable, reliable ELECTRICITY, with a focus on EFFICIENCY and a commitment to ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP. We are dedicated to ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, providing resources and supporting economic growth. Our EMPLOYEES are our greatest asset in meeting our mission to be an Oklahoma Agency of Excellence.

Position Overview: Responsible for safe and efficient start up, operation, shutdown of a power generation facility, which includes one (1) combined cycle plant and one (1) coal-fired plant, along with all associated support equipment, based on the assigned tasks. Primarily, the responsibilities involve working from the Control Room, continuously monitoring the status of all plant systems. Ensuring appropriate corrective actions are taken to clear alarms and address upset conditions, executing plant shutdown and start-up procedures when necessary, and ensuring the plant operates safely and efficiently to meet its generating requirements. During field assignments, maintain, troubleshoot and repair mechanical and de-energized electrical equipment. This equipment includes, but is not limited to, the Gas/Steam Turbines and auxiliary components, gas compressors, motors, pumps, and other auxiliary equipment.

• Promotes continual improvement, working to identify opportunities to improve safety and equipment reliability.
• Provides general direction for the operation of a multi-unit combined cycle and coal fired facility having a combined energy output of approximately 1 GW.
• Operate combustion turbine generators and balance of plant equipment safely and effectively.
• Coordinate operations and maintenance requirements with on-site Operator/Technicians.
• Work under the direction of the Operations Supervisor and management.
• Initiate, operate, and shut down Combustion and Steam Turbine(s) along with auxiliary equipment, as necessary.

Additionally, the role involves reading meters, gauges, or monitoring automatic devices to record essential data, such as equipment operating temperatures, vibration, operating hours, pressure, and fluid levels, to verify operating conditions.

Monitor, document, and assess system conditions while maintaining and reviewing operational and maintenance reporting logs.

Keep management well-informed of any abnormal situations.

Additionally, during maintenance and overhaul periods, there might be a need to report the progress of work, especially when not on an assigned shift and while actively engaged in maintenance activities.

Utilize P&ID's and facility operating procedures along with equipment technical manuals to conduct maintenance and repair work on facility equipment, ensuring that all equipment operates within the specified operating range.

Show complete commitment to the facility maintenance philosophy by actively supporting and demonstrating proficiency in using the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

Adhere to all regulatory procedures and facility safety protocols, comprehending and following them diligently.

Undertake specific tasks and responsibilities assigned in these areas.

Execute tasks related to the handling of hazardous materials and wastes, as well as spill prevention and control, as directed by facility management and in compliance with relevant regulations.

Comprehensive training, including initial orientation and annual classroom training, as well as on-the-job training, will be provided to ensure a thorough understanding of essential information for regulatory compliance and documentation.

Work flexible hours, including shift hours, overtime, or irregular schedules, as necessary to ensure the reliable operation of the facility.

Ensure the power plant consistently meets its generating requirements while operating safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all environmental regulations at the federal, state, and local levels.

Operate the plant following well-established procedures under general supervision.

The role involves having the authority to control plant operations with a primary focus on safety to prevent any recordable accidents and ensure compliance with all environmental permits. Decisions are made within prescribed operating guidelines.

Play an active role in maintaining plant operating manuals, technical references, prints, diagrams, and preventive/predictive maintenance records in an administrative capacity.

Provide support to field technicians during maintenance plans execution, including assistance with Lockout/Tagout procedures, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and work request preparation, among other areas as required.

Show full commitment to and active participation in GRDA Safety and Regulatory Compliance Programs. Create, organize, and maintain accurate records. Perform other assigned duties as required.

Skills, Knowledge, Qualities

Strong technical skills All internal candidates must have completed the Plant Operator IV Qualification as a fundamental prerequisite. External applicants will be required to fulfill the same qualification within six (6) months upon recruitment. Gas Turbine and/or Coal experience is desirable. Theoretical and practical knowledge of gas/steam turbine operations Experience with piping and instrument schematics and process controls Extensive working knowledge of power plant industry Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.

Education, Training, Experience

HS diploma or equivalent required; associate degree in a technical field is desirable. Minimum of six (6) years of operational experience in a power plant or similar large industrial setting, with a preference for at least one (1) year of Control Room experience. A technical degree or certification in a related field may be considered as qualifying experience for up to two (2) years.

Certificates, Registrations, Licenses

Valid driver’s license

Physical Requirements

Protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, ear protection, arc flash rated clothing etc.). Work outside in all types of weather conditions. May be required to work at heights up to and exceeding thirty (30) feet, underground and in confined spaces. Must possess mental, visual, and auditory acuity for attention to visual and auditory detail. Manual dexterity is required for the operation of test equipment, small tools, and the installation, adjustment, and repair of control devices. Must be able to stand and walk on cement floors, uneven ground, slippery surfaces, and open grating. Must be able to climb extending ladders, restricted overhead clearance ladders, scaffolding, stairs, and various other elevated equipment. Must be able to carry and operate a fire extinguisher, escape an emergency by running. Must be able to lift ≥50 lbs. from the floor level, and push/pull heavy objects while standing, crouching, and in bent posture. Must be able to work 12 hour rotating shifts and extended hours when necessary and be available for emergency callouts and scheduled shift coverage over as necessary.

Other information

Position is located at the Grand River Energy Center in Chouteau, OK. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications Highly competitive benefits package If you’re passionate about growth, teamwork, and making an impact, you’ll love building your career with us. The Grand River Dam Authority is Oklahoma’s largest public power electric utility, fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. GRDA is also a steward of the waters of the Grand and Illinois Rivers in Oklahoma and manages over 70,000 surface acres of premier Oklahoma lake waters, as well as miles and miles of the Scenic Illinois River.