Auxiliary Plant Operator

Major Oak Power Station is a 305-megawatt lignite-fired facility located in Robertson County near Bremond, Texas—approximately 150 miles south of Dallas and 160 miles northwest of Houston. The plant employs circulating fluidized-bed (CFB) combustion technology to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx). To further control pollutants, crushed limestone is introduced into the combustion process, significantly lowering sulfur dioxide (SO) emissions, and supporting more environmentally responsible power generation.

Opportunity Summary

This position is offered on a temporary-to-hire basis, with the potential for permanent employment based on individual performance and evolving business needs.

The Auxiliary Plant Operator (APO) plays a vital role in supporting the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of plant equipment and systems. Responsibilities include monitoring equipment performance, performing routine maintenance, making operational adjustments, and responding to emergencies. The APO must ensure compliance with all safety protocols and regulatory standards to help minimize downtime and maintain optimal plant performance.

In addition to core responsibilities, the APO is expected to actively pursue qualification as a Control Room Operator (CRO) by completing relevant training and gaining hands-on experience—contributing to both operational excellence and long-term career development.

Your scope of responsibility as Auxiliary Plant Operator includes the following primary functions:

• Adheres to all safety procedures, including lock-out/tag-out protocols and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
• Understands and follows all applicable regulatory requirements to ensure full compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
• Prioritizes qualifying as a Control Room Operator (CRO) by pursuing relevant training and gaining necessary experience.
• Operates plant equipment and station vehicles (e.g., forklifts, trucks, and cranes) safely and efficiently, minimizing risk to personnel and equipment.
• Responds promptly to dispatch orders and performs emergency operations to protect plant assets and maintain electric service.
• Conducts routine equipment inspections and operational rounds to identify issues early and maintain plant efficiency.
• Reports any plant anomalies or irregularities to the Shift Team Leader for timely resolution.
• Uses plant drawings, blueprints, manuals, and technical documentation to support maintenance tasks and troubleshoot equipment issues effectively.
• Reviews manuals and develops basic troubleshooting procedures to resolve common equipment issues.
• Reads and responds to logbook entries and written instructions to align operations with safety and performance objectives.
• Provides timely and accurate updates to the Control Room Operator (CRO) regarding plant conditions and chemistry adjustments.
• Supports plant productivity and efficiency by minimizing waste and optimizing output.
• Builds strong working relationships with teammates, engineers, and technical staff to promote collaboration.
• Assists with plant housekeeping and performs other duties as assigned to support daily operations and long-term goals.

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.

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 regular work schedule follows a 12-hour rotating Dupont schedule. This position will also occasionally necessitate extended working hours and flexible shifts as needed, including weekends and holidays, in response to schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or “On call” status may also be required.

Compensation

The position offers a base pay rate of $30.00 per hour.

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 acquired through four years of high school. 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.
• Experience in a power plant environment is preferred, particularly in roles such as Auxiliary Operator, Plant Operator, Outside Operator, or other equivalent positions.
• Strong knowledge of power plant systems, maintenance functions, and the ability to effectively apply and implement plant procedures in a dynamic operating environment.
• Hands-on experience with major power plant equipment and the operation of material handling devices, including motors, pumps, boilers, fluid and chemical systems, and electrical distribution controls.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting mechanical and electrical drawings, including P&IDs, single-line diagrams, schematics, and logic diagrams.
• Skilled in the use of hand tools, pneumatic and electric tools, rigging equipment (winches, hoists, slings), and implements such as lances, shovels, and pry bars.
• Foundational knowledge of physics, mathematics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid flow, AC/DC electrical theory, and chemistry.
• Strong awareness of power plant safety procedures related to chemical handling, high-energy systems, confined spaces, incipient fire suppression, first aid, rotating machinery, and heavy equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize hazards, anticipate unsafe conditions, and implement corrective actions to maintain a safe work 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 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.