The Ferndale Generating Station in Ferndale, WA, is a 2x1 combined cycle natural gas power plant that also supplies process steam to a neighboring refinery. It incorporates two GE 7EA combustion turbines paired with a GE steam turbine, collectively generating 270 MW of electricity. This integrated setup exemplifies efficiency and synergy in power generation through its dual turbine configuration and steam supply capability.

Opportunity Summary

The Mechanical Maintenance Technician plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of plant operations. They contribute to preventive, routine, and predictive maintenance programs, utilizing CMMS systems to collect and analyze data that supports operational decisions. Through effective troubleshooting and the repair of critical mechanical systems such as pumps, valves, and turbines, they ensure optimal equipment performance and safety during both routine and planned shutdowns. Collaborating with team members and providing direct support to the I&E Department as needed, they help address maintenance needs involving instrumentation and electrical systems to promote overall plant reliability and performance. Additionally, they supervise contractors to maintain safety and quality standards.

Primary Functions

Participate in the plant’s preventive, routine, and predictive maintenance programs by performing scheduled tasks, utilizing computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and collecting and analyzing trending data to improve reliability and support operational decisions. Troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical equipment issues, applying timely and effective resolutions. Maintain, repair, and overhaul plant mechanical systems and components, including pumps, valves, fans, gearboxes, compressors, and turbines. Support planned shutdowns and repairs by inspecting equipment, diagnosing issues, and performing necessary tasks safely and efficiently. Collaborate with team members to execute maintenance tasks, share knowledge, and enhance overall plant performance, reliability, and safety. Assist in developing and refining preventive maintenance procedures to ensure they are comprehensive and effective. Coordinate and schedule outage-related mechanical work, ensuring efficient resource allocation and minimizing operational disruptions. Set up and operate machine shop tools to perform precise machining tasks, ensuring proper alignment and balance of equipment. Operate and maintain combined-cycle power-generating facility equipment with minimal guidance, ensuring compliance with plant procedures. Install piping, conduit, and other components to support plant system upgrades and modifications. Read and interpret meters, gauges, and instrumentation to monitor operating conditions, including temperature, vibration, pressure, fluid levels, and water chemistry. Maintain spare parts inventory and plant documentation, including operating manuals, technical references, diagrams, and maintenance records, to ensure reliability and accessibility. Supervise contractors and outside technicians to ensure repairs and upgrades adhere to safety protocols and quality standards. Collaborate with the Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E) department to provide support for mechanical maintenance tasks as needed, ensuring efficient operation and minimizing downtime of critical systems. Complete additional tasks as assigned by the Maintenance Manager or Plant Manager, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to plant operations.

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 Mechanical Maintenance Technician reports directly to the Maintenance Manager and receives general direction from other plant management. This role involves interfacing with contractors, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) personnel, and working closely with the I&E Department to ensure effective support, coordination, and execution of maintenance activities.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, stair and ladder climbing and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds. Protective equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, air masks, ear protection and others must be worn in the performance of some duties. Work with hazardous materials may be required. There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All personnel 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.

Compensation

Initial starting rate of pay is $51.03 per hour and will include an annual performance bonus.

Job Qualifications

High school education, providing a solid foundation in procedures and instructions. An Associate Degree in Power Plant Technology or a related technical field, particularly with a focus on mechanical or maintenance training, is highly advantageous. Extensive hands-on experience in power-generating facility maintenance, preferably as a power plant mechanic, millwright, or in an equivalent role. A comprehensive understanding of power plant operations, including preventive and predictive maintenance programs, and the ability to maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and overhaul mechanical systems and balance-of-plant equipment such as pumps, valves, compressors, turbines, and other critical components. A strong commitment to safety protocols and the ability to comply with industry safety regulations, ensuring quality, safety, and operational standards are maintained during maintenance and repairs. Proficient in assembling, disassembling, adjusting, and aligning electrical and mechanical equipment, as well as operating and utilizing various tools, including precision measuring tools, diagnostic equipment, and fabrication tools such as drill presses, milling machines, welding equipment, and rigging tools. Skilled in using and interpreting precision measuring tools and diagnostic equipment to ensure accurate repairs and adjustments. Capable of reading and interpreting meters, gauges, and instrumentation to monitor operational conditions such as temperature, vibration, pressure, fluid levels, and water chemistry, as well as collecting and analyzing data. Excellent oral and written communication skills, essential for effective coordination with team members and management, as well as accurate reporting of maintenance activities. A strong team player with a demonstrated ability to collaborate on maintenance tasks, share insights, and supervise contractors or technicians to ensure quality and safety standards. Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver's license, maintaining 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.