Control Room Operator (CRO)

Faribault Energy Park is a 265 MW combined-cycle facility owned by the Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (MMPA). Meticulously developed to be both environmentally conscious and aesthetically appealing to the immediate surrounding area, the plant blends sustainability with efficient power generation. Powered by a GE Frame 7FA dual-fuel combustion turbine generator (CTG), and a A10 GE Steam Turbine, along with innovative resource management practices such as rainwater collection.

Opportunity Summary

The Control Room Operator ensures the efficient and safe operation of plant equipment, including turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems, by managing start-up, operation, and shutdown processes in compliance with safety and operational standards. This role involves proactive monitoring, precise control, and detailed record-keeping while fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. The operator will troubleshoot, optimize plant performance, and address abnormalities, ensuring reliable operations and effective collaboration with the team, including managing the MRS remote site as needed.

Primary Functions

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

• Perform start-up, operation, and shutdown of all equipment, including turbine generators, by operating control panels to regulate HRSG and turbine load, steam temperature and pressure, feedwater, fuel supply, and combustion conditions, in compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Operate and monitor combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems by reading monitors, meters, gauges, and control systems to verify conditions such as temperatures, pressures, flow rates, vibration, levels, emissions, and equipment status.
• Actively support NAES Safety, Environmental, and Regulatory Compliance Programs and promote a strong safety culture.
• Maintain personal accountability for safety by following all company safety and environmental rules, policies, and procedures.
• Accurately complete and maintain daily logs and plant records, including output, emissions, fuel and water use, and heat rates. Ensure logs reflect all relevant readings and control actions.
• Periodically review logs to verify tag-out procedures, equipment status, and administrative systems. Approve and issue Lockout/Tagouts as needed.
• Maintain plant manuals, technical references, drawings, and maintenance records as required.
• Report equipment abnormalities and plant issues to the Lead Control Room Operator. Promptly address upset conditions and perform emergency operations to maintain service and protect equipment.
• Monitor equipment performance and respond to alarms, coordinating with team members. Direct Auxiliary Operators to adjust plant conditions or chemistry as needed.
• Support training and development to enhance operational competency.
• Conduct thorough shift handovers by clearly presenting plant status and concerns to incoming staff.
• Maintain proficiency in plant operations and monitor systems to anticipate issues.
• Assist in troubleshooting and diagnosing technical problems with the team.
• Help manage upset conditions, including containment, control, and corrective action.
• Assist with maintenance activities during normal operations and outages, supporting Lockout/Tagout, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and work request documentation.
• Operate, monitor, and perform routine checks on the MRS remote site, ensuring proper functioning of all systems and equipment, and responding to any issues or alarms as needed.
• Ensure seamless integration between the main facility and the MRS remote site, including remote troubleshooting and coordination with on-site personnel when required.
• Perform additional reasonable tasks as assigned by the Lead Control Room Operator or plant management, as needed. Respond to instructions and requests from dispatchers to ensure proper coordination and compliance.

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 Control Room Operator reports to the Operations Manager and takes general direction from the Plant Manager and Lead Control Room Operator. The Auxiliary Operator will also coordinate with other plant personnel on matters pertaining to the safe and efficient operation of the combined cycle generation facility.

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

This position follows a rotating 12-hour shift schedule consisting of 7 consecutive day shifts, 7 days off, 7 consecutive night shifts, and another 7 days off. The role will also occasionally require extended hours and flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays, based on operational schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or 'on-call' status will also be required.

Compensation

The initial starting hourly rate of pay will range from $42.64 to $52.15 per hour and will include an annual performance bonus.

Job Qualifications

We are seeking a skilled Control Room Operator with a strong background in power generation operations and a proven ability to support team success while consistently meeting 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 experience may be considered in lieu of education on a year-for-year basis.
• Must currently hold and maintain a valid Minnesota First Class Grade A (1-A) Boiler Operator License, or be able to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
• Experience in power plant operations with a focus on control room operations and system monitoring. Experience with combined cycle large-frame gas turbine power plants is preferred.
• Experience in water chemistry control, including analysis of water conditions, operation of water treatment systems, and safe handling of chemicals.
• Theoretical and practical understanding of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed system steam generation, hazardous waste handling, and the monitoring and recording of plant parameters. Knowledge of turbine generators, combustion turbines, HRSGs, and associated systems.
• Ability to read and interpret DCS logic, supporting effective plant operation and troubleshooting.
• Consistent adherence to safety and environmental procedures, with a commitment to maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to ensure accurate documentation and clear communication with supervisors and team members.
• Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver’s license and maintain it in good standing.

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.