Lead Process Operator

At NAES, you'll find engaging and challenging career opportunities in the power generation, renewable energy and industrial construction industry. At every level of the company, we share a common goal: To instill confidence in our clients through our steadfast commitment to safety, integrity and quality of work. We operate more than 190 power plants throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico that span all technologies and provide over 49 GW of capacity. With the strength of 4000 people, our growing family of companies now addresses the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants. As the largest independent operator of power facilities in the industry, we've come to be viewed as an employer of choice. We strive to attract and retain employees by offering competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package (including retirement) and promotional opportunities. General Summary The Lead Process Operator is responsible for overseeing and performing activities associated with the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of the sites in compliance with all regulatory permits. Responsibilities will include performing a variety of skilled operational tasks throughout the day which includes interfacing with the SCADA system, running analytical tests and performing technical maintenance work supporting the operation. Primary Duties In addition to routine operational and maintenance functions, the Lead Operator will serve as support to the Manager on site and assist with overall operational, maintenance and activities planning and coordination Under the guidance and direction of management, the Lead Operator will assist with implementing techniques and methods of process control that will increase plant and operational efficiencies as well as administer NAES safety and environmental programs. Operate the anaerobic digestion process by monitoring equipment, gauges and charts in the digester, electrical generation, and waste treatment processes, making adjustments as necessary, and performing light maintenance tasks, as well as recommending and researching upgrades and process improvement initiatives Operation the gas upgrading system, including rotating equipment, gas monitoring and metering, scrubbers, membranes, compressors, gas delivery systems, and injection to the interstate pipeline Record and analyze statistical data concerning plant operations ensuring that the plant is running as specified Troubleshoot failures and malfunctions to determine the root cause and maintain, operate, repair and replace equipment as necessary Maintain, modify or repair instrumentation and control equipment including recorders, flowmeter and other water quality monitoring equipment Collect samples for testing and reporting and performs lab analysis for process control Ensure that plant operates within required standards Monitor performance of electrical systems, circuits or equipment of the treatment plant Maintain a clean and presentable plant environment Assist in the training of new employees for developing projects Work closely with Accounting and Asset Management in-support of purchase orders, accounts payable, budget-to-actual, reporting and selection of vendors and purchase of spare parts and equipment Provide daily, weekly and monthly reporting detailing operational trends, along with availability and production Other duties and project work as assigned 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 Lead Process Operator will provide support and guidance in addition to working alongside the Process Operators. Compensation This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $30 to $36 per hour. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions Physical requirements include standing on feet for extended periods, requiring 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, air masks, ear protection, etc.). Work with hazardous materials may be required. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules, workload and project conditions. "On call" status will periodically be required. 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. There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility. Job Qualifications Ability to understand procedures and instructions specific to the area of assignment as would be acquired in four years of high school is required. Knowledge or training in biology, environmental science, chemistry, or a closely related field desired. Strong problem solving and analytical skills with the ability to assess problems and situations, recommend a path forward and evaluate alternatives to resolve the problem Able to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities Knowledge of plant instrumentation, analyzers, pumps, compressors, etc.. Basic understanding of the anaerobic digestion process; anaerobic digestion experience desired Basic knowledge of SCADA and/or PLC systems; instrument calibration and light electrical experience also desired Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to actively listen to others for understanding Must be able to quickly and accurately gather pertinent information and be able to communicate this information professionally and precisely Must have and maintain a valid driver's license It is the practice of NAES to seek employees of the highest quality and to select the individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, military status or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other basis of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state and federal law.