Chalk Point Generation Station, located in Aquasco, Maryland, is a major power generation facility with a total capacity of approximately 1618 MW. The station comprises nine units, including seven gas turbines, and two steam turbines. This configuration allows the station to effectively meet regional energy demands.

Opportunity Summary

The Operating Technician is vitally tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of power plant systems through the start-up, shutdown, and routine management of key auxiliary equipment. This role involves conducting inspections, performing necessary repairs, and following precise directives from the Control Room Operator to maintain optimal performance. Additionally, the Operating Technician actively participates in maintenance activities and demonstrates proficiency in using a computerized maintenance management system to support the facility's maintenance goals.

Primary Duties

Your scope of responsibility as Operating Technician will include the following primary functions: 

Assist in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of power plant systems, ensuring smooth and efficient processes. Operate key auxiliary equipment, such as air compressors, demineralized water systems, lube oil cooling systems, hydraulic systems, and locally controlled electrical and mechanical devices, to support overall plant functionality. Conduct operating tests and inspections, performing necessary minor repairs and adjustments to maintain optimal equipment performance. Follow Control Room Supervisor directives to clear and prepare equipment for service at isolated panels, including tasks like clearing, tagging, testing, and applying safety tape according to procedures. Maintain detailed and accurate logs, ensuring all operational activities are thoroughly documented. Monitor and report any abnormal or irregular conditions that occur during operations, taking corrective actions as required within the scope of operating instructions. Provide support during maintenance periods, contributing to the upkeep and reliability of plant systems. Actively support the use of a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), demonstrating proficiency in system usage, consistent data entry, and alignment with the facility's maintenance philosophy. Accurately record equipment issues and document maintenance actions on SAP work orders, efficiently managing both corrective and preventive tasks while diligently tracking spare parts usage and initiating re-orders as needed. Regularly read meters, gauges, and automatic devices to record critical data, such as equipment temperature, vibration levels, hours of operation, pressure, and fluid levels, verifying proper operating conditions. Perform visual inspections and listen to equipment at scheduled intervals to detect malfunctions or identify the need for repairs, adjustments, or lubrication. Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical malfunctions or failures in operational equipment, executing repairs, replacements, dismantling, and examination of defective parts. Ensure all components are properly lubricated and cleaned. Utilize a Fluke meter and other test equipment to accurately calibrate and repair plant instrumentation and electrical circuits. Safely terminate and connect 480 VAC motor wiring, ensuring proper installation and functionality. Assist in troubleshooting and inspecting programmable logic controllers (PLCs), plant control systems, and distributed control systems (DCS), including the replacement of control cards and wiring terminations. Perform additional tasks as required by the O&M Manager, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of 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 Operating Technician reports to the Control Room Supervisor and takes general direction from plant management.

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 must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, safety shoes, air masks, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves, and high voltage protective equipment, etc.). Work with hazardous materials may be required. 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 a post-offer physical examination and drug screening and post-employment random drug screening.  

Work Schedule 

Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with 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 $53.34 per hour.

Job Qualifications

Ability to understand procedures and instructions specific to the area of assignment, typically acquired through four years of high school. Prior experience and extensive working knowledge in power plant industry and operations is desirable. Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion turbine operations and/or steam turbine operations, electrical systems, industrial safety, regulatory compliance, hazardous waste management, and the inspection/recording of plant parameters is highly desirable. Experience with a lockout/tagout program for hazardous energy control is required. Experience with piping and instrument schematics, as well as process controls, is desirable. Working knowledge of a work order management system or computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) is essential. Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment, including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid systems, chemical handling, water treatment systems, pollution control equipment, and AC/DC electrical distribution and control systems, is required, along with associated maintenance functions. Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential. Ability to work well with others, be self-directed, and apply creative solutions to unique problems is necessary. Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver's license, ensuring it remains 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.