Power Plant Operator jobs in Alaska

SALARY: $37.19 - $39.46 /hourly [Union Position Hiring range - Step 1-3]

The City of Unalaska is accepting applications for the Power House Operator I position in the Department of Public Utilities. Located in the number one commercial fishing port in the United States, the International Port of Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, Alaska, is a coastal community in the Eastern Aleutian Islands with a multi-cultural population of approximately 4,250 full-time residents and seasonal influxes from multiple commercial fishery operations.

The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all employee tasks in this classification. The duties shown are designed to provide a representative summary.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: This entry-level position reports and works under direct supervision from the Power Plant Supervisor. Overall, the position operates, monitors, and maintains diesel generators, electrical equipment, switchgear, fuel transfer systems, and cooling equipment used to generate electricity. Additional detailed duties include starting and shutting down various gen-sets, transferring power on and offline for maintenance purposes, checking instruments and meters to determine proper operation of equipment; logging equipment readings every 2 hours; maintaining proper fuel, lubricant, water, and air levels in equipment; oil, grease, and adjust machinery and equipment as needed; make periodic inspections and perform tests to confirm equipment and controls are functioning properly; maintain consumption, production, and maintenance records; take oil samples for laboratory analysis; report defects immediately and recommend improvements, alterations, and repairs; and clean floors, windows, tools, parts, and power plant equipment as needed or directed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES: Basic knowledge and experience with occupational hazards and corresponding safety precautions associated with working in an industrial/high-voltage environment. Ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships with City of Unalaska staff, the public, vendors, and agencies; ability to learn rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and terminology used in power generation; ability to maintain professionalism; ability to learn and practice proper forklift operations. Must be able to read and understand drawings and illustrations. Ability to operate a motor vehicle; knowledge of electrical and pneumatic controls; knowledge of generator and switch-gear operations in a power generation and distribution facility; ability to learn and practice proper operation of boom truck; experience in electric power generation field; ability to complete minor maintenance and repairs to the powerhouse, powerhouse equipment, and machinery. Ability to detect operating defects of power generation equipment. Ability to keep records of daily activities, fuel and oil consumption kWh generated, and general operating conditions. Basic knowledge of electrical fundamentals and electrical generating processes. Ability to provide clear and effective oral and written communication, understand and follow instructions, and meet deadlines.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

> High school diploma or equivalent required.
> Vocational training in diesel mechanics and/or other applicable technical training preferred.
> One (1) year of experience in electrical power generation or diesel mechanics preferred.
> High voltage rating or experience or journeyman level electrician preferred.

LICENSES & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

> Must have or have the ability to obtain a Driver’s License within 90 days of hire.
> Ability to pass all required pre-employment testing, i.e., criminal background, work history, and random drug testing.
> Must be eligible to work in the US; meet employment requirements by Federal Law; if hired, must complete employment eligibility verification form (I-9).
> Must be able to work rotating shifts.
> Ability to work occasional emergency and non-traditional hours.
> Ability to work in conditions inherent to an industrial environment with loud noise.
> Must be physically able to travel up a few flights of stairs and walk to inspect generators every 2 hours.
> Maintain active and current certifications and licensing for the duration of employment.

BENEFITS:

> If applicable, lump sum relocation assistance (taxable) up to $7,000, plus airfare for the employee and one family member
> 100% employer-paid medical and dental premiums (employee & dependents)
> 100% employer-paid basic life/AD&D insurance (employee & dependents)
> 100% employer-paid Lifeflight insurance (employee & dependents)
> 10 Paid Holidays and 3 Floating Holidays per year
> Paid Time Off starting at 16 hours a month
> Eligible for State of Alaska Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement
> Eligible for 457 Plans with MissionSquare or Mutual of America
> Up to 100% tuition reimbursement (must be taken while employed; refer to Title III)
> Travel allowance of $2,000 every year on your date of hire after 1st year of employment
> Longevity bonus of $2,000 beginning on the third (3rd) year anniversary
> Education Incentive per month: $200 Associate’s degree, $300 Bachelor’s degree, $400 Master’s degree
> Free Membership for Parks, Culture, and Recreation (PCR) (employee only)

TO APPLY: Submit a City of Unalaska Application and Voluntary Self Disclosure Form. All necessary forms are available at City Hall, Administration Department at 907-581-1252 or by downloading Employment Application Forms. Return the completed form to the City of Unalaska: Administration P.O Box 610, Unalaska, AK 99685, and/or email hr@ci.unalaska.ak.us or by fax at 907-581-4469.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The City of Unalaska is an Employer of National Service and encourages AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni to apply.