Control Room Operator (CRO)

The Rathdrum Power Plant is a 275 MW combined-cycle natural gas-fired project that commenced commercial operations in September 2001 and is tolled under a long-term agreement to Avista. The tolling agreement expires in October 2041. Rathdrum's equipment configuration is platformed on GE 7FA technology, along with a heat recovery steam generator and steam turbine. The project includes an SCR and is a recent vintage, environmentally compliant project.

Opportunity Summary

As a Control Room Operator (CRO) at the Rathdrum Power Plant, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all plant equipment, including turbines and generators. This position requires proficiency in monitoring and managing plant systems, responding to alarms, and communicating any abnormalities to the appropriate personnel. You will also support maintenance activities, troubleshoot technical issues, and contribute to the overall safety and compliance of the plant's operations.

Your scope of responsibility as Control Room Operator will include the following primary functions:

• Assist with the start-up, operation, and shutdown of all equipment, including turbine/generators.
• Operate plant equipment safely and within environmental limits to meet production schedules.
• Be proficient in the operation of all plant equipment and proactively monitor all plant systems.
• Ensure that all equipment, including combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and auxiliaries, operates safely and efficiently.
• Monitor the performance of plant equipment and take appropriate corrective action when alarms are activated.
• Communicate plant abnormalities to other plant personnel and/or management.
• Provide technical support in troubleshooting equipment issues and diagnosing equipment failures or operational anomalies.
• Support the implementation of control measures during plant upset conditions, including containment, stabilization, and corrective actions.
• Ensure that the daily log and other plant records are completed accurately and promptly, including details on electrical output, steam output, emissions, fuel consumption, water consumption, and heat rates.
• Conduct periodic reviews of logs and records to ensure that tag-out procedures, equipment status, and designated administrative systems are functioning effectively.
• Participate in the administrative maintenance of plant operating manuals, technical references, prints, diagrams, and preventive/predictive maintenance records.
• Actively support the Maintenance Team in executing maintenance plans by providing support with Lockout/Tagout, equipment identification, troubleshooting, work request preparation, and other tasks as needed.
• Fully support and actively participate in NAES Safety and Regulatory Compliance Programs.
• Complete other tasks as requested by the Operations Manager or Lead Operations Technician.

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 CRO reports to the Operations & Maintenance Manager. The CRO cooperates with and responds to directions from the Operations & Maintenance Manager and Lead Operations Technician. The CRO gives direction to maintenance personnel on matters pertaining to plant operations and gives direction to Auxiliary Operators.

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 Control Room Operator follows a modified DuPont rotating 12-hour shift schedule, ensuring 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts that includes built-in rest days to support continuous and reliable plant operations.

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

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $50.00 to $60.00 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

We are looking for a skilled Operator with power generation operations experience, coupled with a proven ability to contribute effectively to team success and consistently meet performance standards.

• An Associate degree in Power Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related technical 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.
• Demonstrated extensive hands-on experience in power plant operations, particularly in control room management and system monitoring, with preferred experience in the direct operation of a combined-cycle, large-frame gas turbine power plant.
• Strong understanding of plant equipment, systems, and operational procedures, including turbine generators, combustion turbines, and HRSGs.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed-system steam generation, industrial safety, hazardous waste management, and the inspection and recording of plant parameters.
• Experience in water chemistry control, water condition analysis, water treatment facility operations, and chemical handling requirements.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting DCS logic.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience, including the ability to direct and develop team members effectively.
• Proven track record of adherence to safety and environmental regulations, with the ability to enforce compliance among team members.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey information to management and team members.
• 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.