Auxiliary Plant Operator

Major Oak Power Station is a 305-megawatt lignite-fired power plant located in Robertson County near Bremond, Texas. The facility uses circulating fluidized-bed (CFB) combustion technology to control nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, while crushed limestone is injected into the combustion process to reduce sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions.

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Plant Operator (APO) supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of Major Oak Power Station by monitoring equipment, conducting operational rounds, assisting with maintenance and troubleshooting, and responding to abnormal or emergency conditions.

The APO is also expected to work toward qualification as a Control Room Operator (CRO) by completing required training and developing the technical knowledge and experience necessary for advancement.

Your scope of responsibility as APO includes the following primary functions:

• Follow all plant safety procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO), proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and applicable environmental and regulatory requirements.
• Work toward qualification as a Control Room Operator (CRO) by completing required training and developing the technical knowledge and operating experience necessary for advancement.
• Operate plant equipment and station vehicles, including forklifts, trucks, and cranes, safely and efficiently in accordance with established procedures.
• Respond promptly to dispatch instructions, abnormal operating conditions, and emergency situations to protect personnel, equipment, and plant reliability.
• Conduct routine equipment inspections and operational rounds to monitor equipment condition, identify abnormalities, and support reliable plant performance.
• Report plant abnormalities, equipment issues, and changing operating conditions to the Control Room Operator or Shift Team Leader for evaluation and corrective action.
• Read and interpret plant drawings, blueprints, manuals, procedures, and other technical documentation to support operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities.
• Assist with basic troubleshooting and the development or application of procedures used to resolve common equipment and operating issues.
• Review logbook entries, operating instructions, and shift communications to remain informed of plant status, equipment conditions, and ongoing work activities.
• Provide timely and accurate updates to the Control Room Operator regarding plant conditions, equipment status, and chemistry-related adjustments.
• Support plant efficiency and reliability by identifying opportunities to reduce waste, minimize equipment downtime, and improve operating performance.
• Collaborate effectively with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and other plant personnel to support safe and efficient plant activities.
• Maintain plant equipment and work areas in a clean, orderly, and safe condition through routine housekeeping activities.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations and overall business objectives.

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 APO reports to the Operations Manager and may receive day-to-day operational direction from the Plant Manager, Control Room Operator, or other designated plant leadership based on assigned duties.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Work is performed in a lignite-fired power plant environment and includes standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, and working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights. Regular lifting of materials and equipment up to 50 pounds is required.

Duties may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling coal, ash, and other materials associated with plant operations. Personnel may be exposed to coal dust, fly ash, hazardous chemicals, high noise levels, extreme heat near boilers and other equipment, and fluctuating outdoor weather conditions.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and may include hard hats, safety glasses, face shields, air-purifying or supplied-air respirators, hearing protection, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), chemical-resistant suits, hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection equipment. Respirator fit testing may be required based on job responsibilities. Smoking is strictly prohibited 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 APOfollows DuPont’s rotating 12-hour shift schedule, providing 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts. This position will require extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed to support plant operations and business needs and may also require callout availability. Depending on the position, on-call status may or may not apply.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate of $35 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent required. An Associate degree in Power Plant Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related field is preferred. Relevant industrial, power generation, or military experience may be considered in lieu of education.
• Previous experience in a power plant or similar industrial environment is preferred, particularly in roles such as Auxiliary Operator, Plant Operator, Outside Operator, or an equivalent position.
• Strong working knowledge of power plant systems, equipment, maintenance functions, and operating procedures within a dynamic industrial environment.
• Hands-on experience with major plant equipment and material-handling systems, including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid and chemical systems, and electrical distribution equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical drawings, including P&IDs, single-line diagrams, schematics, and logic diagrams.
• Proficiency with hand tools, pneumatic and electric tools, rigging equipment such as winches, hoists, and slings, and common industrial implements.
• Foundational understanding of physics, mathematics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid flow, AC/DC electrical theory, and chemistry.
• Working knowledge of industrial safety practices involving chemical handling, high-energy systems, confined spaces, fire response, first aid, rotating equipment, and heavy machinery.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize hazards, anticipate unsafe conditions, and take appropriate action to maintain a safe working 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 serve clients across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors throughout North America and internationally, supporting the full life cycle of power generation and other industrial facilities.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, USERRA-protected status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.