Plant Operator

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country’s largest private water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.

Job Description

Position Purpose: 

The Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant operation of a cogeneration plant utilizing reciprocating engines. This role involves monitoring, controlling, and maintaining reciprocating engines, heat recovery systems, and auxiliary equipment to ensure optimal performance. The ideal candidate is technically adept, safety-focused, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Equipment Operation : Operate and monitor reciprocating engines, heat recovery systems, and auxiliary equipment to produce electricity and thermal energy efficiently.
• System Monitoring : Use control systems, gauges, and instrumentation to detect and resolve operational issues promptly.
• Maintenance Support : Conduct routine inspections, minor maintenance, and troubleshooting of reciprocating engines and related systems to ensure reliability.
• Safety Compliance : Follow all safety protocols, environmental regulations, and company policies to maintain a safe workplace.
• Data Logging : Record operational data, such as engine performance, fuel consumption, and energy output, for reporting and analysis.
• Emergency Response : Address alarms, malfunctions, or emergencies swiftly, implementing corrective actions to minimize downtime and risks.
• Team Collaboration : Coordinate with maintenance technicians, engineers, and supervisors to optimize plant operations.
• Shift Coverage : Work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to support 24/7 plant operations.

Work Environment:

Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

• High school diploma or GED required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, industrial technology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in power plant operations, cogeneration, or industrial environments, with specific experience operating reciprocating engines.
• Experience with natural gas or dual-fuel reciprocating engines in cogeneration or combined heat and power (CHP) systems.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

• Knowledge of reciprocating engine operations, distributed control systems (DCS), and mechanical/electrical systems.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to perform under pressure.
• Familiarity with OSHA standards, lockout/tagout procedures, and environmental compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in reading P&ID diagrams and technical manuals for reciprocating engines.
• Understanding of exhaust gas treatment systems and emissions control.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

• Relevant certifications, such as EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification or reciprocating engine-specific training, are a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, work in confined spaces, and stand for extended periods.

Additional Information

Pay Range: $42.00 to $48.00 per hour.

Benefits: Veolia’s comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering and more. In addition, employees are also entitled to participate in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement. Pay and benefits for employees represented by a union are outlined in their collective bargaining agreement.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.