The Cascade Power Project is a cutting-edge 900-megawatt combined-cycle power generation facility. Powered by natural gas and equipped with two Siemens SCC6-8000H Power Trains, the plant boasts modern and highly efficient industrial turbines. Set to commence operations in early 2024, this facility represents a significant stride towards sustainable and technologically advanced energy production in the region.

Opportunity Summary

The Operations Technician plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of plant systems by monitoring performance, troubleshooting issues, and assisting with maintenance tasks. This position offers the opportunity to develop technical expertise through hands-on experience in various operational roles, including control room support and system inspections. With a focus on adaptability, safety, and continuous learning, the Operations Technician will contribute to plant reliability while progressing through a structured development programme.

Primary Functions

Your scope of responsibility as Operations Technician will include the following primary functions: 

Ensure all systems operate safely and efficiently within optimal parameters. Identify and address equipment issues promptly, performing minor repairs or coordinating with tradespeople for more complex problems. Assist with routine maintenance tasks and activities, utilizing mechanical aptitude and background to ensure equipment functionality and plant efficiency. Participate in general plant housekeeping, minor equipment maintenance, and ensure equipment cleanliness. Contribute to the development and execution of operational procedures, routine inspections, and system checks. Assist with operational tasks such as chemical cleaning, scheduled system checks, and product loading/unloading. Support control room operations and assist in training new operators for both field positions and control room responsibilities. Rotate across different positions and provide coverage as required, including during vacation periods. Respond to plant emergencies and upset conditions, including system malfunctions and power block trips, and be on call for meter site issues and other critical events. Adapt to changing tasks, demonstrate knowledge in plant operations, and ensure plant safety and efficiency. Progress through the operator development system, including advancement to control room operator and/or shift engineer. Work toward achieving goals outlined in the incentive compensation targets. Maintain positive relationships with suppliers and contractors, ensuring safe and efficient deliveries and work execution. Coordinate facility tasks, collaborating with suppliers and contractors to ensure timely completion. Communicate in real time with the grid operator, Energy Trading, and the ISO to ensure compliance with dispatch and system control requirements. Foster community relations by exemplifying NAES corporate policies and values daily. Implement and manage safe work systems, including LOTO, confined space entry, hot work, and work authorization processes. Operate and oversee environmental regulatory monitoring systems to ensure compliance and accuracy. Follow inventory procedures, participate in stocktaking as required, and adhere to all applicable purchasing guidelines. Familiarize with ARS (NERC) standards and fulfil operational roles as necessary. Utilize IT systems proficiently, including full competence with CMMS and document management systems for daily tasks and record-keeping. Provide timely and concise information for internal and external reporting. Perform other duties as assigned by the team leader.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value of NAES and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to be mentally alert and work safely at all times. Additionally, employees are required to adhere to all safety warnings and posted safety signs whenever on company property. Furthermore, employees must follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Working Relationships

The Operations Technician reports to the Operations Manager and takes general direction from the Plant Manager. Additionally, the Operations Technician cooperates with all other plant personnel as needed in the daily operation of the plant.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Power plant environment which entails working conditions that may include extreme hot or cold temperatures, confined spaces, working at extreme heights and on grating, and working around heavy equipment, pressurized, and energized equipment. Both indoor and outdoor work are part of the job requirements. Protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, air masks, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves, and high voltage protective equipment, etc.). Respirator qualified required. There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility.

Physical requirements include the possibility of standing for extended periods of time, stair and ladder climbing and lifting up to 23kg.

Fitness for Duty

All employees will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program. This program includes a post-offer physical examination and drug screening and post-employment random drug screening. 

Work Schedule

This position entails a 12-hour rotating shift encompassing days and nights. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with the possibility of weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules, workload, and plant conditions. The Operations Technician rotates across different positions and steps in as needed, including during vacation periods.

Job Qualifications

Education and Certifications/Licenses

Third Class Power Engineering certificate and substantial power generation plant experience are preferred qualifications, with possession of a Second Class Inter-Provincial Power Engineering Certificate being advantageous. A related Technology or Trade Certification would be considered an asset.

Experience & Attributes

The Operations Technician must be adaptable, knowledgeable in plant operations, and capable of handling diverse tasks while ensuring plant safety and efficiency. Minimum of 3 to 5 years of progressive work experience in power generation or a related large industrial facility. Proficiency in understanding and adhering to regulatory requirements relevant to power generation facilities, ensuring compliance with environmental, safety, and operational standards. Advanced knowledge of electrical systems and experience with Distributed Control Systems in power generation facility operations is advantageous. Additional experience in machinery inspection or repair, along with familiarity with control systems, is preferred. Knowledge of various equipment types, acquired through a combination of hands-on experience and formal training conducted at the manufacturer’s facility and/or on-site. Ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues efficiently, minimising downtime and optimising plant performance. Demonstrated ability to safely operate hand tools, test equipment, and calibration devices. Proficiency in visually interpreting and responding to computer-generated data, instrumentation, gauges, readouts, and colour variations. Capacity to maintain composure and think clearly during emergency situations. Manual dexterity required to operate keyboards, pushbuttons, dials, valves, and mechanical actuating devices. Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver’s licence, ensuring it remains in good standing at all times.

What we offer:

Competitive Compensation Medical, dental, and other benefits Annual Bonus Incentives RRSP Matching Program

Energy People Making Energy Facilities Work – Better

NAES Canada is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. It is the practice of NAES Canada to seek employees of the highest quality and to select individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, colour, national or ethnic origin, genetic characteristics, religious beliefs, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, family status, source of income, sexual orientation, and for a conviction for which a pardon has been granted or a record suspended which is protected by applicable local, provincial and federal law.