The Goodman Energy Center, nestled in Hays, Kansas, stands as a robust 103 MW powerhouse. It harnesses the energy of 12 Wartsila 20V34SG natural gas fired reciprocating engines, embodying cutting-edge technology in its efficient operation. Situated in the heart of the Midwest, it plays a vital role in meeting the region’s energy demands sustainably.
Opportunity Summary
The Operations Manager is responsible for managing the daily operations of the project. The Operations Manager directs the implementation of the Operating Plan and identifies those areas which may need improvement or further development. The Operations Manager ensures that plant operating conditions are always kept within optimum limits.
Your scope of responsibility as Operations Manager includes the following primary functions:
- Maintain morale of the plant staff and create an atmosphere in which employees ideas are heard and evaluated. Ensure that employees receive feedback and updates on plant status and all other important items.
- Create and maintain relationships with contractors and vendors to support facility needs
- Work closely with the O&M Supervisor to direct and support the Operations & Maintenance Team in maintaining reliable, safe, and efficient plant operations for our client
- Ensure maximum levels and efficiencies of electrical output are maintained by working with the client to prioritize repairs, minimize downtime and maintain reliability
- Evaluate normal, abnormal, or emergency plant conditions, and work with the plant staff to take necessary corrective action according to established policy or as directed
- Provide support to the O&M Supervisor in their evaluation of equipment conditions and required maintenance activities
- Ensure compliance with all environmental regulatory requirements
- Oversee plant personnel training and maintain the plant Training Manual. Ensure an adequate number of trained personnel are available for continuous and safe project operation, even under adverse conditions. Prepare employees for increased responsibilities.
- Prepare reports for NAES, the owner and/or utility, and any governing entities as required
- Periodically review existing procedures, ensuring that they reflect current, correct and safe operating practices
- Sustain morale and motivation of plant personnel and address employee concerns promptly
- Work in concert with the O&M Supervisor in locating, screening, and hiring operating personnel
- Keep the NAES Operations Director, NAES Safety and Environmental Contacts and the Client informed of all critical information
- Lead the initiative of developing, presenting, and maintaining O&M and labor budgets
- Participate in facility audits as requested by the company
- Perform other duties as assigned by NAES and Ownership
NAES Safe
Safety is a core value of NAES and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to be mentally alert and work safely at all times. All NAES managers and supervisors have a direct and important role in ensuring that all work is performed in a healthy and safe manner. Effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each supervisors performance.
This includes, but is not limited to, the following functions:
- Conduct/Support Regular Safety Meetings (at least monthly)
- Address Safety at all Group Meetings
- Conduct Inspections and Observations: establish within the department a regular inspection of the work area and a safety observation process of work being performed
- Establish and lead these activities following any rules, requirements or guidance established in your business unit, group, or division
- Involve all NAES teammates in the activities
- Analyze results, write work orders, train, and educate to eliminate hazards, at-risk behavior and meet company regulatory requirements
- Conduct Regular Observation Tours: Verify that employees and contractors are performing the work in accordance with safe practices, company procedures and OSHA regulations
- Regular and Frequent Contacts: conduct one-on-one contact sessions with workers to discuss safety issues, communicate expectations and coach safe behaviors, e.g., whether the employee is wearing all required personal protective equipment
- Respond to Incidents: Respond to all safety-related incidents including, but not limited to injuries, incidents and near misses; write a report that explains what happened, identify the cause, and recommend corrective action following any established business unit or division practice. Follow up as necessary to ensure that corrective action is taken.
Working Relationships
The Operations Manager for Midwests Goodman Energy Center, as well as Colby and Bird City generating units reports to NAESs Corporate Operations Director. The Operations Manager supervises and works in conjunction with the O&M Supervisor in the daily operation of the plant.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
Physical requirements include the possibility of standing for extended periods of time, stair and ladder climbing and lifting up to 50 pounds. Protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, air masks, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves, and high voltage protective equipment, etc.). There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility.
Fitness for Duty
All employees will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program. This program includes a post-offer physical examination and drug screening and post-employment random drug screening.
Work Schedule
This position offers a Monday to Friday work schedule, during regular dayshift hours. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with the possibility of weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules, workload, and plant conditions. “On call” status will periodically be required.
Some travel may be involved to participate in Manager, Owner, User Group, or other offsite meetings.
Compensation
The initial annual compensation will range from $120,000 – $135,000 based on qualifications and experience. Additionally, an annual bonus is offered based on facility performance, meeting budget targets, and Safety and Environmental compliance.
Job Qualifications
We are seeking a candidate who has extensive experience in power plant operations. Experience with reciprocating engines is desirable.
- High School diploma or equivalent required. A bachelor’s degree in a related technical field is a plus but is not required
- Proven ability to lead and direct operational teams effectively, ensuring safety compliance and achievement of operational goals
- Track record of efficiently coordinating and managing projects, optimizing costs and schedules, while ensuring effective execution of operations activities
- Ability to analyze operational data to identify areas for improvement and enhance efficiency, resulting in reduced operational costs
- Thorough understanding of environmental regulations and experience in ensuring compliance with relevant local, state, and federal requirements
- Comprehensive knowledge of safety protocols and practices within power plant operations, focusing on maintaining a safe working environment and minimizing incidents
- Experience in designing and implementing training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of operations personnel, fostering a capable and responsive workforce
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities, capable of preparing clear reports, effectively communicating with stakeholders, and providing guidance to team members.
- Demonstrated aptitude for promptly identifying and resolving operational issues, using creative problem-solving skills to optimize plant performance.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license at all times.
About NAES
NAES Corporation is the leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have established ourselves as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Additionally, our growing family of companies enables us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.
NAES is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. It is the practice of NAES to seek employees of the highest quality and to select individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other basis of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state and federal law.
Preferred
- Extensive power plant Operations technical and leadership experience with a work history that demonstrates a pattern of accomplishments and advancement. Experience should include a supervisory or management position in which there was oversight of hourly employees and delegation of tasks associated with completion of projects.
- Extensive experience in power plant operations, with combined-cycle plant experience preferred.
Preferred
- Bachelors or better in Engineering or related field
Required
Preferred
- Power Plant Operations
- Power Plant Fundamentals
- Computer Skills
- Control Room Operations
- Environmental Awareness
- Motivating Others
- Plant Operations
- Safety Policies and Procedures
- Team Leadership
- Verbal and Written Communications
Preferred
- Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking
- Functional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subject
- Thought Provoking: Capable of making others think deeply on a subject
- Leader: Inspires teammates to follow them
- Team Player: Works well as a member of a group