This position performs a variety of engineering tasks relating to plant reliability and performance monitoring, troubleshoots plant and equipment problems, leads Root Cause Analysis (RCA) investigations, leads plant based NERC/CIP reporting requirements, manages “Management of Change” process as it pertains to system/equipment modifications, manages implementation of system/equipment repairs and upgrades, acts as project manager for a variety of plant efficiency upgrade and retrofit projects, acts as construction manager for a variety of projects including public works projects, assists in personnel training and scheduling of operations and maintenance functions.
Level III:
This is the entry level class within the Engineer series for an employee assigned to a Power Plant. Employees at this level receive only general instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Engineers at this level are expected to manage smaller projects with minimal direction. Positions in this class are normally filled by individuals with a BS in Engineering and a minimum of three (3) years power plant/production engineering experience.
Level IV:
This is the journey person level class within the Engineer series. Working with minimal direction, employees at this level perform the projects and troubleshooting assignments including maintenance and capital improvement projects from concept to completion May lead capital projects including prioritizing work, giving project assignments, directing and reviewing work, and providing guidance and instruction to project personnel including professional engineering staff, other plant staff and contractors. Positions in this class are normally filled from the Engineer III level or if from outside the Agency by an individual with a BS in Engineering, and a minimum of five (5) years power plant/production engineering experience. A California Professional Engineering License is highly desired and in some cases a requirement.
Level V:
This the senior level class within the Engineering series. Working with minimal direction often taking plant goals and translating them into work assignments for the individual and in many cases other departments. Employees at this level are given the most complex projects (many cases maybe multi-year, many different disciplines of work, large contracts) and complex trouble shooting. Positions in this class are normally filled from the Engineer IV level or if from outside the Agency by an individual with a BS in Engineering, and a minimum of seven (7) years power plant/production engineering experience. A California Professional Engineering License is highly desired and in some cases a requirement.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Participates in the review and technical/economic analysis of new projects, and with development of specifications, negotiation of agreements with counter parties. Prepares periodic reports on progress and issues relating to the above.
- Investigates and determines methods to improve performance and efficiency of power plant equipment and systems including turbine generators, condensers, pumps, cooling towers and heat exchangers, etc. and conducts engineering and economic analyses for consideration by the supervisor.
- Participates in troubleshooting Plant equipment operating problems, performs “root cause” analyses and assists in the implementation of measures to prevent future problems.
- Develops technical specifications and assists with the development of equipment supply and construction contracts.
- Develop commissioning and testing procedures as well as operations and maintenance procedures.
- Acts as project manager on assigned projects which includes planning, interdepartmental coordination, budgeting, implementation, progress reporting, quality control, payment approval, etc.
- Acts as the primary technical resource for the facility Computer Maintenance Management System (CMMS) including program upgrades, creation of customized reports, system troubleshooting and personnel training.
- Maintains and communicates within the Generation Services Department up-to-date information on relevant trends and new technologies in the field of Reliability and Plant Engineering. Analyzes the need for maintenance activities such as condition based, predictive, preventative, scheduled, etc. and participates in the planning and scheduling of such activities.
- Acts as a point of contact with the NCPA Generation Services Engineering Department and provides engineering assistance as requested.
- Provides input to the Plant budget and Business Plan.
- Participates in the facility safety program.
- Interfaces with Reservoir Engineering to optimize plant output.
- Stays abreast of electricity market conditions and communicates findings regularly to Plant staff.
- Manages the plant drawing files, including updating files with as-built changes.
- Prepares reports and makes oral presentations at public meetings.
- Reports for work on time and maintains satisfactory attendance in accordance with Agency policy. Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent. Arrives to meetings and appointments on time.
Engineer III
Knowledge of:
- Power plant operations, rotating equipment and plant design parameters;
- Methods, materials and techniques used in the construction and commissioning of geothermal or natural gas power plants;
- Use and application of computer aided design software;
- Principles and practices of applicable ASME codes and standards;
- Principles of budget preparation and administration;
- General power plant safety principles and practices
Ability to:
- Observe and enforce NCPA safety procedures;
- Work with NCPA staff in monitoring plant operations and making recommendations to improve plant performance;
- Develop, maintain, and administer contracts in support of the NCPA facility;
- Prepare technical specifications, plans, and drawings in support of various engineering projects;
- Perform general plant performance calculations and engineering duties with a minimum of supervision;
- Oversee and supervise NCPA staff and contractors on a variety of projects to ensure safety procedures are observed and plans are correctly being followed.
- Conduct clear and concise oral presentations as necessary.
Engineer IV
In addition to the qualifications for Engineer III:
Knowledge of:
- NCPA leadership standards and expected leadership behaviors;
- Requirements of Public Works Contracts including:
- Public Works bid process
- Roles and responsibilities of NCPA project manager versus contractor
- Bonding
- Public notices and registration requirements
- Project closure
Ability to:
- Initiate, develop, and supervise a variety of projects, including Public Works Projects, from concept to completion. These duties will include:
- Developing technical specifications, drawings, and work scopes,
- Conducting bid walks
- Safety orientations
- Supervising NCPA staff and contractors
- Reporting progress
- Controlling project costs
- Conducting post project reviews.
- Consistently manage NCPA staff or contractors in pursuit of facility goals.
Engineer V
In addition to the qualifications for Engineer IV:
Knowledge of:
- Capital budget, creation and project management (including projects that are assigned to other departments).
- Supervise other personnel on either an on-going or project basis.
- Act as a Lead Project Manager on projects that may include other engineering departments.
- Be a primary contact for various agencies (i.e.- California Energy Commission, Air Board, Local Cities/Counties, etc.).
Supervisory Responsibilities
Plant Engineer III – Has no Supervisory Responsibilities.
Plant Engineer IV – Leads projects and may act as interim supervisor as needed.
Plant Engineer V – Leads large scale projects, may supervise other employees, and may act as interim plant manager as needed.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully the individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge of:
- Power plant operations and plant design parameters;
- Geothermal plant performance monitoring and power plant electrical systems;
- Methods, materials and techniques used in the construction of geothermal or natural gas power plants;
- Use and application of computer aided design software;
- Industry codes and standards;
- Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) or similar work management system, Root Cause Failure Analysis, Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) and/or Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) and the application of CBM equipment;
- Principles and practices of applicable ASME codes and standards;
- Principles of budget preparation and administration;
- General power plant safety principles and practices
- Experience with and Ability to:
- Observe and enforce NCPA safety procedures;
- Work with NCPA staff in monitoring plant operations and making recommendations to improve plant performance;
- Develop, maintain, and administer contracts in support of the NCPA facility;
- Prepare technical specifications, plans, and drawings in support of various engineering projects;
- Write reports and analyze and interpret common scientific and technical journals;
- Perform general plant performance calculations and engineering duties with a minimum of supervision;
- Build and lead teams in a collaborative fashion. Oversee and supervise NCPA staff and contractors on a variety of projects to ensure safety procedures are observed and plans are correctly being followed.
- Conduct clear and concise oral presentations before management, public groups and others as necessary
- Manage construction projects
- Supervise professional staff, including conducting interviews, setting goals and evaluating performance. (Level V only)
Education and/or Experience
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mechanical preferred) from an accredited four-year college or university is required. For Engineer III, a minimum of three (3) years in power plant/production engineering, preferably within the Geothermal industry. For Engineer IV, a minimum of five (5) years power plant/production engineering experience is required. For an Engineer Level V a minimum of seven (7) years power plant/production engineering experience is required and a California Professional Engineering License is highly desired and in some cases a requirement
Language Skills
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business articles, periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, government regulations, etc. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
Mathematical Skills
Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical analysis, economic analysis such as Net Present Value, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, differential equations, etc.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to solve problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited information exists.
Computer Skills
Must possess knowledge of database and spreadsheet software, design software such as Autocad, development software, internet software, Project Management software such as MS Projects, and Microsoft Word software.
Certificates, Licenses, Registration:
A California Professional Engineering License is highly desired and in some cases a requirement.
Possession of a valid Class “C” California Driver’s License with no limitations issued by the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles or ability to obtain such within 30 days or hire. Must by insurable by NCPA’s insurance policy and possess and maintain a good driving record as demonstrated by the absence of multiple or serious traffic violations or accidents within the last seven (7) years.
Competencies
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures.
Design - Generates creative solutions; Translates concepts and information into images; Uses feedback to modify designs; Applies design principles; Demonstrates attention to detail.
Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities.
Technical Skills- Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.
Customer Service - Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others’ ideas and tries new things.
Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone’s efforts to succeed.
Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; Communicates changes effectively; Builds commitment and overcomes resistance; Prepares and supports those affected by change; Monitors transition and evaluates results.
Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; ; Effectively influences actions and opinions of others; Inspires and motivates others to perform well; Accepts feedback from others. Gives appropriate recognition to others.
Quality Management - Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness.
Business Acumen - Understands business implications of decisions; Displays orientation to profitability; Demonstrates knowledge of market and competition; Aligns work with strategic goals.
Cost Consciousness - Works within approved budget; Contributes to profits and revenue; Develops and implements cost saving measures; Conserves organizational resources.
Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Encourages a harassment-free environment
Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization’s goals and values; Supports affirmative action and respects diversity.
Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.
Motivation - Sets and achieves challenging goals; Demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles; Measures self against standard of excellence; Takes calculated risks to accomplish goals.
Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Sets goals and objectives; Develops realistic action plans.
Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.
Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
Quantity - Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity; works quickly.
Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.
Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time.
Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.
Initiative - Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Takes independent actions and calculated risks; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Asks for and offers help when needed.
Innovation - Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others’ attention.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Regularly talks and listens to others to exchange and obtain information to direct the operation and control of the combustion turbine facility.
- Regularly sits at computer and control center, reading displays and inputting data for up to 8+ hours
- Occasionally visually watches and monitors data on computer display requiring close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Occasionally climbs vertical ladders up to 150ft, including, transitioning sideways and forwards from ladders to elevated platforms through the use of self-closing gates and chains. Occasionally may need to transition through trap doors while simultaneously operating gates at elevated heights.
- Occasionally climbs flights of stairs up to 10 stories carrying test equipment.
- Frequently walks on uneven or slippery surfaces, requires depth perception to observe changing elevations and avoid injury from adjacent high temperature surfaces.
- Frequently steps up, steps down or steps over curbing, containments, pipes, conduits, equipment and foundations.
- Occasionally climbs, wriggles or crawls through small elevated openings such as boiler drum doors or Heat Recovery Steam Generator access hatches.
- Occasionally climbs, transitions and works on scaffolding while wearing fall protection gear.
- Occasionally walks, reaches, crawls, squats, kneels and crouches using feet, legs, hands and manual strength to access malfunctioning equipment to inspect. May perform these actions inside, on top of or underneath various equipment.
- Regularly works while using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, work boots, respirators, chemical suits, face shields, hearing protection and other equipment as needed.
- Occasionally works outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Occasionally works near heated surfaces; works on slippery or uneven surfaces in precarious places using safety equipment to adjust or operate equipment
- Routinely listens to operating sounds of equipment to diagnosis equipment malfunctions.
- The facility is staffed at minimum levels. Regular On-time attendance per the work schedule is required. Overtime work is required and expected.
- Frequently operates agency vehicles going to and from job locations which may require multiple hours of travel time on any given day.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; outside weather conditions and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
EOE
