Maintenance Mechanic

The Berkeley Cogeneration Plant is a 1x1 combined cycle facility powered by an LM2500PJ gas turbine, providing 22–25 MW of electricity and steam directly to the University of California, Berkeley campus. The site includes a steam plant in operation since the 1930s and a cogeneration plant originally constructed in the mid‑1980s, together supporting the campus heating distribution system. With 95% availability, the CHP plant serves as the primary steam provider, while auxiliary boilers and the steam plant ensure a consistent, year‑round supply to meet campus demand. Opportunity Summary The Mechanical Maintenance Technician at Berkeley Cogeneration Plant plays a key role in maintaining the reliability and efficiency of a combined‑cycle cogeneration facility supporting both electrical generation and continuous campus steam demand. This position executes preventive, routine, and predictive maintenance using CMMS systems while ensuring strict adherence to safety policies and procedures. Through troubleshooting, repair, and collaboration with plant personnel, the technician supports safe, reliable operation of gas turbine, HRSG, and steam distribution systems. Responsibilities Execute preventive, routine, and predictive maintenance activities using CMMS, ensuring accurate documentation of work performed, equipment condition, and parts usage. Troubleshoot, document, and assist in resolving mechanical issues across plant systems, including gas turbine auxiliaries, HRSG equipment, and steam distribution systems. Maintain, repair, and overhaul mechanical equipment such as pumps, valves, fans, heat exchangers, compressors, and steam system components; perform tasks such as valve packing, lubrication, and equipment assembly/disassembly. Support operation and maintenance of steam generation and distribution systems, ensuring reliable steam supply to campus facilities. Follow all plant safety policies and procedures at all times, including strict compliance with LOTO requirements and job safety assessments prior to performing work. Complete work orders, inspections, and assigned tasks on schedule, ensuring quality and adherence to plant standards. Read and interpret gauges and instrumentation to monitor temperature, pressure, vibration, flow, and system performance. Maintain plant housekeeping standards and ensure work areas are clean, safe, and organized. Assist in outage planning and execution, including coordination of mechanical work and supervision of contractors to ensure safety and quality compliance. Inspect incoming parts and materials for quality, damage, and proper specification prior to installation. Provide input for parts, tools, and equipment needs, supporting inventory accuracy and maintenance planning. Set up and operate machine shop tools and perform minor fabrication or welding (MIG, TIG, stick, brazing) as required. Follow training plans and continuously develop skills; provide guidance and share knowledge with other team members as needed. Communicate effectively with operations, maintenance, and leadership to support overall plant performance and reliability. Support cross‑functional activities and perform additional duties as assigned to meet plant and campus operational needs. Safety Employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. They 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 Mechanical Maintenance Technician reports directly to the Maintenance Manager and receives general direction from other plant management. This role involves interfacing with contractors and OEM personnel to ensure necessary support and coordination. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds. The power plant environment may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Tasks may require protective equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame‑resistant clothing, 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 position may require extended working hours and flexible shifts, including weekends, holidays, and periodic callouts or "on call" status as needed to meet schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Compensation Base pay ranges from $51.91 to $64.99 per hour, with eligibility for an annual performance bonus. Core Qualifications and Skills Associate degree in Plant Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Process Technology, or a related 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 also be considered. Significant hands‑on experience in power generation, cogeneration, or industrial facilities, with a background as a mechanic, millwright, or similar role supporting mechanical maintenance activities. Strong working knowledge of mechanical systems in a CHP or steam‑based environment, including maintenance and repair of pumps, valves, compressors, heat exchangers, and turbine auxiliary systems. Demonstrated understanding of preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance practices, with the ability to identify issues and perform effective troubleshooting and equipment overhauls. Proven commitment to safety, with working knowledge of OSHA standards, LOTO procedures, and safe work practices in an industrial or power plant setting. Skilled in equipment assembly, disassembly, alignment, and adjustment, with experience using precision measuring instruments, diagnostic tools, and shop equipment. Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, gauges, and instrumentation to monitor system conditions such as temperature, pressure, vibration, and flow. Experience working collaboratively in a team environment, including coordinating with operations personnel and overseeing contractors to ensure safe and high‑quality work execution. Effective communication and organizational skills, with experience documenting maintenance activities, utilizing CMMS systems, and supporting plant reporting requirements. Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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 other protected status under applicable local, state, and federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr