Control Room Operator (CRO)

The Rayburn Energy Station is a natural gas-fired power plant with a nominal generation capacity of 750 megawatts (MW). The facility features a single set of two Siemens SGT6-5000F series combustion turbine generators (CTGs) operating in high-efficiency combined-cycle mode. In this configuration, the hot exhaust from each CTG flows into a dedicated Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG), maximizing energy output through steam-driven power generation.

Opportunity Summary

The Control Room Operator is responsible for continuously monitoring the status of all plant systems. This position ensures that alarms and upset conditions are addressed promptly by taking appropriate corrective actions. The CRO also executes plant shutdown and start-up procedures as needed and ensures the plant meets its generating requirements while maintaining safe and efficient operations. Additionally, the CRO ensures that all equipment functions properly by adhering to approved procedures, guidelines, equipment technical manuals, and operating directives from plant management.

Your scope of responsibility as Control Room Operator will include the following primary functions:

• Perform the start-up, operation, and shutdown of all equipment, including turbine generators, in compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Operate and monitor equipment, including combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems, ensuring safe and efficient performance.
• Actively participate in NAES Safety, Environmental, and Regulatory Compliance Programs, supporting a strong safety culture.
• Uphold personal accountability for safety by adhering to all company safety and environmental rules, policies, and procedures.
• Complete and maintain the daily log and other plant records, including electrical output, steam output, emissions output, fuel consumption, water consumption, and heat rates, with accuracy and timeliness.
• Review logs and records periodically to ensure effective functioning of tag-out procedures, equipment status, and administrative systems.
• Maintain plant operating manuals, technical references, prints and diagrams, and preventive/predictive maintenance records as needed.
• Report plant abnormalities to appropriate personnel, ensuring issues are addressed in a coordinated manner.
• Monitor the performance of plant equipment and take appropriate action when alarms are activated, coordinating with team members as necessary.
• Assist in staff training and development initiatives to improve operational competency.
• Conduct thorough and accurate shift handovers by presenting plant issues and concerns to incoming personnel.
• Maintain proficiency in operating all plant equipment and proactively monitor systems to identify potential issues.
• Participate in troubleshooting efforts for technical issues and diagnose equipment failures or anomalies in collaboration with the technical team.
• Assist in controlling plant upset conditions, including containment, control, and corrective actions as required.
• Support maintenance activities during normal shifts and outages by providing assistance with Lockout/Tagout, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and work request preparation.
• Execute additional assigned tasks from the Operations Manager, contributing to the operational success of the plant.

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 Operations Manager and responds to directions from the Maintenance Manager, and Plant Manager. The CRO gives direction to other personnel as it pertains to the reliable operations of the facility.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, 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

The Control Room Operator works a rotating 12-hour shift schedule to ensure continuous coverage and smooth shift transitions. This role may occasionally require extended hours or alternative shifts, including weekends and holidays, depending on scheduling needs, workload, or plant conditions. Periodic callouts or 'on-call' status may also be necessary.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $40 to $55 per hour, along with an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

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 gained through successful completion of high school or equivalent education. 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.
• Extensive experience in power plant operations, with a focus on control room management and system monitoring. Preferred experience in the direct operation of a combined cycle large frame gas turbine power plant.
• Strong understanding of plant equipment, systems, and operational procedures, including turbine generators, combustion turbines, and HRSGs.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, industrial safety, hazardous waste management, and the inspection and recording of plant parameters.
• Experience in water chemistry control, analysis of water conditions, water treatment facility operations, and chemical handling requirements.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience, including the ability to direct and develop team members effectively.
• Proven track record of adhering to safety and environmental regulations, with the ability to enforce compliance among team members.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information to management and team members.
• 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.