The Altavista Biomass Power Station is a notable renewable energy facility with a capacity of 51 MW. The facility is equipped with two B&W boilers, a Mitsubishi steam turbine, and an Alstom generator, which work in synergy to generate electricity from biomass feedstocks. NAES has an operating history of more than 17 years with the regulated electric utility that owns the station. The plant’s generation is included as a valuable resource in the utility’s long range plans. Altavista is located within the Lynchburg, Virginia metro region, in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Operator (AO) assists in the safe and efficient operation of the power plant and the supporting equipment and systems. The AO carries out all routine water chemistry analysis, inspects and monitors operating components and reports plant status. In the event of a failure of the automated fuel feed system, the AO may be required to operate heavy equipment to maintain proper fuel supplies to the station.

Primary Duties

Assist in the startup, shutdown, and routine operations of power plant systems. Operate major auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, circulating water systems, boiler feed-water treatment systems, waste water systems, generator cooling systems, boiler feed-water and condensate systems, and locally controlled electrical and mechanical equipment. Conduct operating tests, inspections, and minor repairs on assigned equipment to ensure proper operating conditions. Follow instructions from the Control Room Operator to clear or prepare equipment for service, adhering to operating procedures and safety protocols. This involves clearing, tagging, testing, and applying safety tape to equipment as necessary. Conduct routine water chemistry analysis and operate Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) equipment. Maintain detailed logs as assigned. Report any abnormal or irregular conditions encountered during work and take corrective measures within established operating procedures. Assist maintenance personnel during scheduled maintenance periods. Operate heavy equipment as needed to maintain fuel supply to the station in the event of a malfunction in the automated dual feed system. Complete additional tasks as directed by the Control Room Operator, Shift Supervisor, or the O&M Manager.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value of NAES and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to be mentally alert and work safely at all times. Additionally, employees are required to adhere to all safety warnings and posted safety signs whenever on company property. Furthermore, employees must follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Working Relationships

The Auxiliary Operator reports to the Shift Supervisor (under the guidance of the O&M Manager) and periodically receives work direction from the Control Room Operator.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include the possibility of standing for extended periods of time, stair and ladder climbing and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds. Protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g. hard hats, safety glasses, air masks, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves and high voltage protective equipment, etc.). Work with hazardous materials may be required. Must be able to be respirator qualified. There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All employees will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program. This program includes post-offer physical examination and drug screening and post-employment random drug screening. 

Work Schedule

Regular scheduled work days include four days on and four days off, rotating days and nights. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules, work load and plant conditions. "On call" status will periodically be required.

Compensation

Initial compensation will range from $26.00 to $30.50 per hour.

Job Qualifications

Ability to comprehend procedures and instructions relevant to the assigned area, typically obtained through a four-year high school education. Prior experience in power plant operations is preferred. Essential experience includes proficiency in water chemistry control, analyzing water conditions, operating water treatment facilities, and handling chemicals safely. Highly desirable qualifications include both theoretical and practical knowledge of steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, industrial safety protocols, hazardous waste management, and the ability to inspect and record plant parameters. Familiarity with piping and instrument schematics, as well as process controls, is advantageous. A working understanding of the power plant industry is beneficial. A valid driver's license is required and must be maintained at all times.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is the leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have established ourselves as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Additionally, our growing family of companies enables us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.

NAES is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. It is the practice of NAES to seek employees of the highest quality and to select individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other basis of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state and federal law.