Control Room Operator (CRO)

The Beaver Falls Generating Facility is a 1×1 combined-cycle cogeneration power plant with a nameplate capacity of 107 MW. This dual-fuel plant, capable of operating on natural gas or diesel, features a Siemens V64.3 combustion turbine and an Ansaldo steam turbine. Equipped with a Deltak HRSG and a Tempella auxiliary boiler, the facility efficiently supplies steam to two adjacent paper mills while generating power. This role may occasionally support the Syracuse Combined Cycle in Syracuse, NY.

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 and oversee plant operations—including start-up, shutdown, and emergency response—by directing plant operators and utilizing the Distributed Control System (DCS) to manage combustion, steam, feedwater, and electric load in compliance with environmental, NERC, and other regulatory requirements.
• Ensure successful completion of the O&M Technician Floor Operator qualification process prior to qualifying for Control Room Operator (CRO).
• Continuously monitor all major plant systems and auxiliary equipment to identify operational trends, detect abnormal conditions, and take prompt emergency action to maintain electric service, protect station equipment, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• 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 and events.
• Review and authorize safety-related activities, including Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO), Confined Space Entry, and Hot Work permits, in accordance with site procedures and safety regulations.
• Perform preventive maintenance on plant equipment and document all maintenance actions, equipment issues, and spare parts usage in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
• Troubleshoot and repair plant systems and equipment to ensure reliable and efficient operations.
• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with applicable codes, standards, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Support reliable facility operation by working assigned shift hours, overtime, and irregular hours as needed, including responding to short-notice schedule changes driven by plant dispatch requirements.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization across all facility areas through general housekeeping duties.
• Complete other tasks as directed by the Plant Manager.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees must also adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property. Additionally, they are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Adherence to these safety responsibilities is one of the key factors in 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 safe and efficient plant operations.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.

Power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near equipment and varying outdoor weather conditions.

Some duties may require the use of protective equipment, which can include hard hats, safety glasses, and eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions apply in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post-offer physical examination, 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.

As needed, this role may occasionally require travel to occasionally support the Syracuse Combined Cycle in Syracuse, NY.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $38 to $42 per hour, along with an annual performance bonus.

Job Qualifications

We are seeking a skilled Operator with a foundation in power generation operations, along with a proven ability to support team success and consistently meet performance standards.

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions related to the assigned area, typically acquired through four years of high school. An Associate degree in power plant technology, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education on a year-for-year basis.
• Experience in control room operations or a similar role within a generating facility, with strong knowledge of operational and maintenance procedures.
• Proven ability to manage plant operations—including start-up, shutdown, and emergency response—using the Distributed Control System (DCS) and coordinating field personnel.
• Skilled in DCS operation for regulating combustion, steam, feedwater, and fuel systems, while ensuring compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.
• Solid understanding of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed steam systems, industrial safety practices, and environmental compliance protocols.
• Familiarity with piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), process controls, and control system schematics.
• Experience with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for scheduling and executing preventive maintenance, documenting maintenance actions, and managing spare parts.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety protocols and the proper implementation of Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO), confined space entry, and hot work permitting procedures.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to work independently or collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES

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

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, 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 form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.