Outside Operator

At PIC Group, Inc., our emphasis is on excellence. We recruit the strongest candidates in the power generation industry. As a global service provider, we continually seek talented individuals.

Title: Outside Operator
Position Type: Contract
Location: Westminster, MA
Reports to: Operations Manager
Status: Non-Exempt

Job Summary:
PIC Group is seeking an Auxiliary Operator to support a 20MW Biomass Facility located in Westminster, MA. The Outside Operator reports to the Operations Manager and will play an integral part in a team of seasoned operators that have a solid history of strong plant performance. In addition, the Outside Operation will be responsible to operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation, mechanical and electrical equipment. The Outside Operator assists in the safe start-up, operation, and shutdown of plant equipment from outside the control room. The Outside Operator will provide critical input on operating conditions of equipment and upcoming maintenance required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• A successful Outside Operator ensures safe and efficient operation of the boiler, steam turbine, generator, related auxiliaries, and balance of plant systems from outside the control room.
• Start-up, operation, and shutdown of equipment, systems, and the plant in accordance with approved plant procedures, technical manuals and as directed by the Control Room Operator.
• Monitor and record local operating parameters, adjusting as required to maintain safe and efficient operation.
• Supports the Control Room Operators in the proper operation of the combined cycle generating facility with minimal guidance or assistance. Competently operates and maintains all plant equipment. Capable of operating plant equipment locally via PLC panel interfaces. Communicates plant issues and keeps Control Room Operators fully informed of plant operations, unusual conditions, and faulty equipment.
• Fully supports the use of a computerized maintenance management system by displaying a proficiency in using the system, entering data consistent with the facility maintenance philosophy.

• Handles corrective maintenance and preventive maintenance work orders in a timely and high-quality manner as assigned.
• Visually inspects and listens to equipment at periodic intervals to detect malfunctions or need for repair, adjustment, or lubrication.

• Perform water chemistry analysis. Ensure water chemistry is within proper control ranges. Make adjustments to water chemistry, as needed, by controlling chemical feed and/or blowdown rates.

• Works with plant chemist, operators, and water treatment vendor to properly monitor overall chemistry program.

• Operate water treatment systems in accordance with OEM and plant procedures and monitor water quality to ensure it is within acceptable limits.
• Performs capital project and/or major program responsibilities as assigned by Plant Management.
• Monitor plant air and water emissions from outside the control room and take steps to maintain within acceptable limits notifying Control Room Operator of abnormal situations.
• Observe, report, troubleshoot, and correct situations that are likely to develop into operational problems or safety hazards.
• Report and respond to chemical spills and leaks in accordance with plant emergency response plans.
• Monitor and operate equipment circuit breakers and switches as directed by the Control Room Operator for safe and efficient operation of the plant. This includes opening, locking, and tagging for isolation and maintenance.
• Obtain thorough turnover from Outside Operator being relieved, including special orders and unusual operating conditions. Review operating logs and inspect plant equipment, controls, and indications.
• As directed by the Control Room Operator, perform periodic tests on critical plant systems and equipment including lube oil pumps, turbine valves, turbine system trips, and boiler trips.
• Test and operate plant fire and chemical safety equipment as directed.
• Maintain work area in a clean, orderly condition.
• Report all maintenance activities to the Control Room Operator.
• Participate in scheduled safety meetings and training.
• Safely operate vehicles on-site as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned plant management.

Job Requirements:

• Working knowledge in mechanical, instrumentation and electrical power plant equipment.
• Ability to make competent decisions in emergency situations and work independently with little or no supervision.
• Demonstrates good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read and understand gauges, instrument controls and other device readouts.

• Knowledge of equipment isolation and tagging procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of the purpose and proper use of the plant safety equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and recommend solutions.

• Excellent teamwork skills required.Ability to work a rotating 12-hour shifts and /or irregular hours as needed.

• Valid driver’s license

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk, reach, climb, stoop, and lift (up to 50 pounds).
• Ability to work in elevated areas, confined space and extreme heat and cold conditions

Education / Experience:

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• 3 years of power or other relevant industry experience
• Must have a valid Massachusetts Fireman’s License
• Biomass experience is preferred

PIC Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer competitive wages and benefits. We seek out and employ talented individuals who meet the qualifications for each position. Due to the large number of responses we receive to our postings, only those applicants with the required experience and qualifications will be contacted.