Power Plant Operators
Code: 51-8013.00
Description : Control, operate, or maintain machinery to generate electric power. Includes auxiliary equipment operators.
JobTitles : Auxiliary Operator, Control Operator, Operations and Maintenance Technician (O & M Technician), Unit Operator, Power Plant Operator, Boiler Operator, Control Center Operator, Control Room Operator, Operations and Maintenance Gas Turbine Technician, Plant Control Operator
Tasks:
- Monitor power plant equipment and indicators to detect evidence of operating problems.
- Adjust controls to generate specified electrical power or to regulate the flow of power between generating stations and substations.
- Control power generating equipment, including boilers, turbines, generators, or reactors, using control boards or semi-automatic equipment.
- Regulate equipment operations and conditions, such as water levels, based on instrument data or from computers.
- Take regulatory action, based on readings from charts, meters and gauges, at established intervals.
- Start or stop generators, auxiliary pumping equipment, turbines, or other power plant equipment as necessary.
- Inspect records or log book entries or communicate with plant personnel to assess equipment operating status.
- Control or maintain auxiliary equipment, such as pumps, fans, compressors, condensers, feedwater heaters, filters, or chlorinators, to supply water, fuel, lubricants, air, or auxiliary power.
- Clean, lubricate, or maintain equipment, such as generators, turbines, pumps, or compressors, to prevent failure or deterioration.
- Communicate with systems operators to regulate and coordinate line voltages and transmission loads and frequencies.