The Syracuse Combined Cycle Plant in Solvay, NY, a 103 MW facility with a Siemens V64.3 combustion turbine, a Deltak three-drum HRSG, and an Ansaldo steam turbine. As needed, this role may occasionally support the Beaver Falls facility in Beaver Falls, NY, a 107 MW 1x1 combined cycle dual-fuel cogeneration plant supplying steam to two paper mills, with a Siemens V64.3 turbine, an Ansaldo steam turbine, a Deltak HRSG, and a Tempella auxiliary boiler. These plants play a critical role in the regional energy landscape, ensuring reliable power and supporting New York's industrial operations.

Opportunity Summary

The Control Room Operator is responsible for coordinating plant operations, including start-up, shutdown, and emergency situations, using the Distributed Control System (DCS) while directing the actions of other plant operators. This role involves monitoring plant systems and equipment, executing emergency actions to ensure compliance and safety, and performing preventive maintenance as scheduled. The position also requires prompt reporting of anomalies, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring all activities comply with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and operational procedures.

Your scope of responsibility as Control Room Operator (CRO) includes the following primary functions:

Coordinate plant operations, including start-up, shutdown, and emergency situations, by utilizing the Distributed Control System (DCS) and directing the actions of other plant operators. Operate DCS control panels to regulate steam temperature and pressure, feedwater, and fuel supply, ensuring efficient combustion and electric load management while maintaining compliance with Environmental, NERC, and other regulatory requirements. Continuously monitor all major plant systems and associated auxiliary equipment to identify operational trends and detect abnormal or emergency conditions. Execute emergency actions as needed to ensure regulatory compliance, maintain electric service, and safeguard station equipment. Promptly report regulatory violations, operational upsets, or other anomalies to the Plant Manager. Respond to dispatch orders and requests from the NYISO and Transmission Operator in a timely and accurate manner. Record comprehensive and accurate entries in the plant operating log to ensure proper documentation of operations. Review and authorize safety-related activities, including Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO), Confined Space Entry, and Hot Work permits, as required. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance activities on plant equipment as directed by the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS). Troubleshoot and repair plant systems and equipment to ensure reliable and efficient operations. Utilize the CMMS effectively by documenting equipment issues, maintenance actions performed, and spare parts usage thoroughly. Ensure all work complies with applicable codes, standards, regulations, policies, and procedures. Support reliable facility operation by working assigned shift hours, overtime, and irregular hours as needed, including occasional short-notice schedule changes based on plant dispatch requirements. Perform general housekeeping duties and maintain cleanliness across all facility areas. Complete other tasks as directed by the Plant 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 CRO reports to the Plant Manager and may give direction to operations and maintenance personnel on matters pertaining to plant operations.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include the possibility of standing for extended periods of time, stair and ladder climbing and 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.). There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility. 

As needed, this role may occasionally require travel to occasionally support the Beaver Falls facility in Beaver Falls, NY.

Fitness for Duty

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

Work Schedule

This position offers a Monday to Friday work schedule, during regular dayshift hours. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with the possibility of weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules, workload, and plant conditions. "On call" status will periodically be required. Some travel may be involved to participate in Manager, Owner, User Group, or other offsite meetings.

Compensation

Initial starting compensation will range from $38 to $43 per hour and will include an annual performance bonus.

Job Qualifications

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, providing the ability to understand procedures and instructions specific to the area of assignment. An Associate Degree in a technical field is highly desirable. Successful completion of the O&M Technician Floor Operator qualification process is required prior to commencing CRO qualifications. Demonstrated experience in a control room operations role, or a similar position within an operating or generating plant, with a strong understanding of operational and maintenance tasks. Proven ability to coordinate plant operations, including start-up, shutdown, and emergency situations, by effectively utilizing the Distributed Control System (DCS) and directing the actions of other plant operators. Proficient experience in operating DCS control panels to regulate steam temperature and pressure, feedwater, and fuel supply, ensuring efficient combustion, electric load management, and compliance with Environmental, NERC, and other regulatory requirements. Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion/steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, industrial safety, hazardous waste management, and inspection/recording of plant parameters is highly desirable. Familiarity with piping and instrument schematics as well as process controls is desirable. Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to apply creative solutions to unique challenges, along with excellent organizational, oral, and written communication skills to effectively manage tasks and collaborate with team members. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently, with a self-directed approach. Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver's license and maintain it in good standing 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.