Control Room Operator (CRO)

Located in Niles, Michigan, the Niles Energy Center is a modern 1.08-gigawatt gas-fired combined-cycle facility that provides reliable, efficient power to the regional grid. Powered by two high-efficiency GE 7HA.02 gas turbines and a steam turbine generator, the plant optimizes output and reduces emissions using advanced heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) and a low-NOx auxiliary boiler. As a model of cleaner thermal generation, the facility supports grid stability and the transition to more sustainable energy.

Opportunity Summary

The Control Room Operator (CRO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Niles Energy Center from both the control room and the field. This position operates and monitors combined-cycle generation equipment, responds to changing plant conditions, supports troubleshooting and maintenance activities, and ensures compliance with safety, environmental, and operating requirements. Working closely with Operations and Maintenance personnel, the CRO plays a key role in maximizing plant reliability, performance, and availability.

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

• Start up, operate, monitor, and shut down GE 7HA.02 combustion turbines, HRSGs, the steam turbine generator, and balance-of-plant systems from both the control room and the field while maintaining safe and reliable operation.
• Monitor plant performance using the Distributed Control System (DCS), PLCs, and other control interfaces, adjusting operating parameters to optimize efficiency, reliability, and emissions compliance.
• Recognize abnormal operating conditions, respond to alarms and emergencies, troubleshoot equipment issues, and take corrective action, including overriding automatic controls when necessary.
• Perform routine plant rounds, monitor equipment condition, collect operating data, maintain accurate operating logs, and support effective shift turnovers.
• Support maintenance activities by performing equipment isolations, Lockout/Tagout, system clearances, and preparing work requests for preventive and corrective maintenance.
• Assist with operator training, qualification activities, plant inspections, operating procedures, technical documentation, and administrative responsibilities.
• Participate in NAES Safety, Environmental, and Regulatory Compliance Programs while maintaining compliance with all plant safety, environmental, and operating requirements.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, contractors, and plant leadership to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the facility.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall 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 CRO reports to the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Manager and takes direction from the Plant Manager. They collaborate closely with operations and maintenance personnel, occasionally providing guidance to ensure the facility operates safely and reliably.

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.

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 CRO follows a rotating 7 days on / 7 days off schedule, alternating between night shift during one 7-day work period and day shift during the next. This position will 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.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $46 to $55.36 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Qualifications and Technical Competencies

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree in Power Plant Technology, Engineering, or a related technical field preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• Extensive experience operating combined-cycle power plants, including direct control room operations and large-frame gas turbine generation.
• Strong knowledge of combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbine generators, electrical systems, and balance-of-plant equipment, including startup, shutdown, synchronization, switching, and system alignment.
• Thorough understanding of DCS operation, Lockout/Tagout procedures, plant operating practices, emergency response, and safe work procedures.
• Experience with water chemistry control, water treatment systems, and chemical handling requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot plant equipment, respond effectively to abnormal operating conditions, and support routine maintenance activities.
• Strong leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• 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 serve clients across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors throughout North America and internationally, supporting the full life cycle of power generation and other industrial facilities.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, USERRA-protected status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.