Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician

The Sterling Power Plant is a 62 MW natural gas-fired facility configured as an efficient 1+1 combined cycle cogeneration block, supplying both electricity and thermal energy. Located in central New York near Utica and Syracuse, it benefits from a stable transmission network and access to reliable gas infrastructure. Its strategic positioning and cogeneration capability support consistent, flexible operation within the regional energy market.

Opportunity Summary

The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician at the Sterling Power Plant supports the safe startup, operation, and monitoring of a 1+1 combined cycle cogeneration facility, contributing to reliable electric and thermal energy production. This role provides hands-on exposure to major plant systems, including combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, auxiliary systems, and foundational IC&E and control system activities supporting stable operations. It is a structured development position focused on field operations, maintenance support, and progressive training toward Control Room Operator qualification within a steady-state combined cycle environment.

Your scope of responsibility as O&M Technician will include the following primary functions:

• Perform controlled startup, shutdown, and operational support of combined cycle combustion turbine, HRSG, steam turbine, and auxiliary systems in accordance with plant procedures and under supervision to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Operate and monitor major plant auxiliary systems, including condensate and feedwater systems, cooling systems, air compressors, and demineralized water systems to support steady, continuous combined cycle and cogeneration operation.
• Conduct routine field inspections and operational rounds to identify abnormal conditions, equipment issues, or performance deviations and communicate findings to operations personnel.
• Monitor key operating parameters such as temperature, pressure, vibration, flow, and electrical output using plant instrumentation and control systems to support stable and efficient plant performance.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and shift documentation, recording equipment status, operating conditions, and observed abnormalities in support of reliable baseload generation.
• Identify and report abnormal operating conditions promptly, supporting corrective actions under established procedures to maintain safe, stable, and continuous plant operation.
• Perform basic instrumentation, controls, and electrical (IC&E) support activities, including field verification checks, sensor validation, and assistance with troubleshooting.
• Assist maintenance personnel during planned and unplanned outages by supporting equipment preparation, system isolations, and return-to-service activities.
• Use the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document work activities, track equipment status, and support maintenance planning and coordination.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance tasks as assigned, following established procedures and safety requirements to support plant reliability and efficiency.
• Conduct hands-on inspections of mechanical and electrical equipment, identifying leaks, lubrication needs, wear, and other conditions impacting long-term reliability.
• Support troubleshooting of mechanical and operational issues affecting turbines, HRSGs, steam systems, generators, and auxiliary equipment to maintain consistent plant output.
• Assist with control system and PLC-related activities, including basic signal verification, field checks, and support of diagnostic troubleshooting under supervision.
• Participate in structured Control Room Operator (CRO) qualification training while progressively developing knowledge of integrated combined cycle operations and coordinated electric and thermal energy production.
• Provide occasional backup O&M support to the Batavia Power Plant, assisting with field operations, monitoring, and outage activities to maintain safe, reliable operations.
• Fulfill other tasks as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of plant operations.

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 O&M Technician reports to the Lead O&M Technician and may also take general direction from the Plant Manager. Additionally, this position will coordinate with all other plant personnel to ensure safe and reliable plant operations.

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 O&M Technician works a standard Monday to Friday day-shift schedule, ensuring consistent plant operation and support during regular business hours. 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.

Occasional travel to provide backup O&M support to Batavia Power Plant as needed.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $35 to $40 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

We are looking for a skilled Technician with experience in power generation operations and maintenance, coupled with a proven ability to contribute effectively to 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.
• Hands-on experience in power plant operations, including exposure to gas turbine-based generation systems, steam systems, and associated auxiliary equipment in a utility-scale combined cycle or industrial power generation environment.
• Working knowledge of plant startup, shutdown, and normal operating practices, with the ability to perform basic troubleshooting and support mechanical, electrical, and control system issues under supervision.
• Familiarity with major plant equipment such as pumps, valves, heat exchangers, compressors, and turbine-generator systems, including basic inspection, monitoring, and support of maintenance activities.
• Understanding of gas and steam turbine operating principles, plant instrumentation, and basic process control concepts used to support reliable electric and thermal energy production.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents including operating procedures, basic schematics, equipment manuals, and work instructions while maintaining accurate operational logs and records.
• Working knowledge of safety practices and regulatory requirements, including LOTO procedures, OSHA standards, and environmental compliance expectations in a utility-scale power generation environment.
• Experience working collaboratively with operations and maintenance teams to support planned and unplanned outages, routine maintenance activities, and equipment troubleshooting efforts.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to clearly document operational conditions, communicate abnormalities, and support continuous improvement in plant performance.
• 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer


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