Local Plant Operator

Job Summary

The Local Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring assigned power generating units through routine plant patrols, field inspections, and operational activities. The role supports safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations by identifying and reporting abnormalities and executing field instructions from the Control Room in line with established SOPs and safety requirements.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct periodic patrols of assigned boiler, turbine, condenser, feedwater system, cooling systems, and auxiliary equipment.
• Check for leaks, unusual noises, excessive vibrations, abnormal temperatures, and pressure fluctuations.
• Identify and report potential safety hazards, system faults, or irregularities in plant operations.
• Operate manual field equipment such as valves, pumps, and drain/vent systems.
• Monitor auxiliary systems including fuel supply, cooling water, and lubrication systems.
• Implement plant shutdown/start-up instructions by executing field-based procedures as directed.
• Follow plant safety protocols, including hazard identification, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures.
• Participate in routine safety drills, toolbox talks, and compliance training.
• Ensure plant housekeeping standards by keeping assigned areas clean and free of hazards.
• Record equipment status, observations, and any interventions in the shift logbook.
• Communicate plant conditions, deviations, and field actions to the control room operator.
• Provide clear and detailed handover reports for incoming shifts.
• Assist maintenance teams in preparing equipment for servicing, ensuring isolation and access.
• Provide real-time feedback on equipment performance and potential failures.
• Support troubleshooting activities by assisting technical teams with field assessments.
• Execute emergency shutdown/startup procedures in coordination with the control room team.
• Respond to plant trips, leaks, and equipment malfunctions with appropriate field interventions.
• Participate in fire drills and emergency preparedness training.

Education & Work Experience

• Minimum of OND (Ordinary National Diploma) or Technical Certificate in Mechanical, Electrical, or Power Plant Engineering.
• 0 to 2+ years of experience in a power generation plant, refinery, or heavy industrial process plant.
• Prior experience in steam turbine operations or thermal power plants is an added advantage
• Technical Skills & Knowledge:
• Basic knowledge of power plant processes, including steam cycles, boiler operations, and cooling systems.
• Ability to read and interpret pressure, temperature, flow gauges, and P&ID diagrams.
• Familiarity with safety regulations, permit-to-work systems, and emergency shutdown procedures.
• Basic troubleshooting skills for pumps, valves, pipes, and auxiliary equipment.

Behavioural & Soft Skills

• Strong attention to detail and observational skills.
• Effective communication and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
• Discipline and reliability in executing operational tasks.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond to emergencies.
• Rigor and critical sense, open-minded, keen to knowledge sharing and team work.

• Understanding of the basic principles of power generation

• Knowledge of industry, plant, company, equipment, scientific, technical, tool, safety, and personnel terminology.

• Knowledge of how systems interrelate and the impact of this interrelationship on plant operations.

• Knowledge of the location of equipment, basic knowledge of how the equipment operates and normal operating parameters.

• Ability to observe and identify abnormalities and deviations.

• Ability to identify and report out of compliance or unsafe conditions.

• Ability to measure and take readings accurately.

• Ability to recognize types, shapes, and sizes of materials and equipment.

• Knowledge of the relevant safety standards, regulations and procedure