Turbine Operator (Microgrid) 

Job Summary 

A microgrid aero turbine operator ensures the safe and efficient operation of turbines, vital for electricity generation. They constantly monitor and control these complex machines to uphold peak performance and reliability. This position requires a deep understanding of aeroderivative turbine systems, keen attention to detail, and the ability to react swiftly to evolving conditions.

As an aero turbine operator at our microgrid facility and begin a rewarding career with a leading provider of power generation operations and maintenance services. In this role, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of aeroderivative turbines, which are a critical component of the microgrid power generation system.

Key Responsibilities

• Microgrid Control & Load Balancing: Monitor the facility’s electrical demand via SCADA/HMI, adjusting turbine output to manage "Peak Shaving" or "Zero-Export" requirements. Execute seamless transitions between utility-connected mode and island-mode during grid failures. Maintain precise frequency (isochronous control) and voltage stability when the facility is disconnected from the grid. Monitor the interplay between gas turbines, backup diesel generators, and Battery Energy Storage Systems to optimize efficiency and response time. Perform high-voltage switching operations to isolate buses or feeders for maintenance.

• Turbine & Thermal Operations: Start, stop, and monitor gas turbines, tracking vibration, exhaust spreads, and bearing temperatures. Operate Heat Recovery Steam Generators or hot water loops to capture turbine exhaust heat for the facility’s chilling or heating needs. Monitor Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems to ensure NOx/CO compliance with local environmental permits.

• Plant Rounds & First-Line Maintenance: Conduct hourly rounds of the energy center, inspecting fuel gas compressors, lube oil skids, and water treatment systems. Perform filter changes (air/fuel/oil), swap pumps, and manage chemical feed rates for cooling towers or boiler water. Take samples of lube oil and cooling water for testing; interpret results to detect early equipment wear.

• Emergency Response: Demonstrate capability to perform a "Black Start" (restoring power without external grid assistance) during total facility blackouts. Diagnose trips or alarms on VFDs, PLCs, and motor starters, coordinating with I&C technicians for repairs.

Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma/GED.

Experience: 4+ years of experience in power plant operations, central utility plants, or naval engineering (Nuclear/Gas Turbine). Specific experience with Cogeneration (CHP) or Combined Cycle systems.

Technical Skills:

• Deep understanding of electrical theory (Volts, Amps, VARs, Frequency, Droop vs. Isochronous control).
• Proficiency with building automation systems (BAS) or industrial SCADA.
• State Boiler Operator License (if applicable to the specific site).

Requirements

• Travel: Ability to travel 75% to 100% of the time, often on short notice, to project sites globally, sometimes for extended durations.
• Strong verbal, written, analytical and interpersonal skills.  

• Excellent customer, communication, and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work independently. 

• Ability to complete multiple projects within time constraints.  

• Strong organizational skills.  

• Valid jurisdictional driver license.  

• Ability to work holidays, weekends, and overtime.  

• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors, requiring physical activity, including climbing ladders, working at elevations, bending, twisting, kneeling, crawling, pushing/pulling, standing, walking, and lifting 50 pounds.

• Ability to work in areas that may be noisy, cold, hot, dirty, and able to wear personal protective equipment.  

• Ability to meet appropriate physical requirements as determined by the corporate Health & Safety Department as prerequisites to perform certain tasks or training activities, for example, pulmonary function testing for respiratory protection, if required.

• Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship. 

Safety 

• Adhere to safety regulations and procedures.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

** This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He or she will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties requested by his or her supervisor. Qualifications are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an “at-will basis.” 

      Equal Opportunity Employer

Experience needed: Operating and maintaining aeroderivative turbine packages (i.e., Solar SMT units, LM and TM 2500's, FT8's, etc.)