Auxiliary Operator

Based in Tracy, CA, the Auxiliary Operator will provide support for the project fleet consisting of four facilities: Tracy Power Project, a 330 MW combined cycle plant located in Tracy; Henrietta Peaker Plant, a 96 MW simple cycle plant located in Lemoore, CA; Hanford Peaker Plant, a 97 MW simple cycle plant located in Hanford, CA; and the Malaga Power Facility, a 96 MW simple cycle plant located in Fresno, CA.

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Operator (AO), based in Tracy, CA, plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the Tracy Power Project—a 330 MW combined cycle facility that contributes to the region’s energy reliability. The AO assists with plant start-up, shutdown, and routine operations by operating auxiliary equipment, monitoring key systems, and collecting water chemistry samples to support plant performance. Working under the guidance of the Control Room Operator, the AO performs equipment inspections, supports maintenance efforts, and helps maintain a safe, efficient, and compliant operating environment.

The AO will also be required to travel occasionally to other California plant locations—Lemoore, Hanford, and Fresno—to provide back-up support as needed.

Your scope of responsibility as Auxiliary Operator (AO) will include the following primary functions:

• Assist in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operations of power plant systems, ensuring all processes are carried out safely and efficiently.
• Operate and monitor major auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, circulating water systems, boiler feedwater treatment systems, wastewater systems, generator cooling systems, and boiler feedwater and condensate systems, as well as locally controlled electrical and mechanical systems, ensuring optimal functionality.
• Perform operational tests, inspections, and diagnostics, making necessary repairs and adjustments to assigned equipment to maintain peak operating conditions.
• Execute orders from the Control Room Operator to clear equipment or prepare it for service at isolated panels, adhering to operating instructions and procedures. This includes clearing, tagging, testing, and securing operations with safety tape to ensure safety and proper functioning.
• Conduct routine water chemistry analysis and operate continuous emissions monitoring equipment to ensure compliance with environmental and operational standards.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date logs of operations, ensuring all records are complete and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Report abnormal or irregular conditions during operations and take corrective action in accordance with established procedures to prevent operational disruptions.
• Assist maintenance personnel during maintenance periods to ensure that systems are restored to full operational status.
• Train to become Control Room Operator (CRO) qualified by progressively gaining knowledge and experience in plant operations, safety protocols, control system functions, and emergency procedures under supervision.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Control Room Operator or Operations Supervisor, supporting efficient plant operations.

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 AO reports directly to the O&M Manager, while also receiving general direction on daily activities from the Shift Supervisor and plant management, as needed. Additionally, the AO will coordinate with other plant personnel on matters pertaining to the safe and efficient operation of the plant.

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

The AO works a rotating 12-hour shift schedule, consisting of four days on followed by four days off, alternating between day and night shifts. Position also 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.

The AO will also be required to travel occasionally to other California plant locations—Lemoore, Hanford, and Fresno—to provide back-up support as needed.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $34.76 to $48.65 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.

• An Associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, equivalent technical training in industrial maintenance or instrumentation and control is beneficial, though not required. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education.
• Proven track record in technician or operations roles within power generation, with hands-on experience in operating and maintaining major auxiliary equipment, including air compressors, circulating water systems, boiler feedwater treatment systems, wastewater systems, generator cooling systems, and associated electrical and mechanical systems.
• Experience with water chemistry control, water condition analysis, water treatment facility operations, and chemical handling is preferred, but not necessary.
• Theoretical and/or practical knowledge of combustion/steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, industrial safety, hazardous waste management, and plant parameter inspection/recording is desirable, but not mandatory.
• Understanding of electrical systems, including high-voltage safety protocols and basic electrical theory, is important, especially when working with generator cooling systems and locally controlled electrical equipment.
• Proficiency in mechanical systems, such as pumps, compressors, and turbines, is often required for maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.
• Familiarity with piping and instrumentation schematics and process controls is beneficial, but not essential.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and certifications, such as OSHA or NFPA, is critical, especially in hazardous environments.
• 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.