Watch Engineer

Calpine Corporation is Americas largest generator of electricity from natural gas and geothermal resources with operations in competitive power markets. Its fleet of 77 power plants in operation represents over 27000 megawatts of generation capacity. Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses Calpine serves customers in 22 states and Canada. Its clean efficient modern and flexible fleet uses advanced technologies to generate power in a low-carbon and environmentally responsible manner.

The company was established on the premise that a strong commitment to the environment is inextricably linked to excellence in power generation and corporate responsibility. Since its founding in 1984 Calpine has led the power industry in its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. In addition its renewable geothermal plants use steam generated deep below the earths surface to produce clean renewable electricity.

Job Summary: (includes but is not limited to the following other duties may be assigned)

Under the direction of the Operations Manager and in accordance with standing orders operate plant equipment as necessary during normal and emergency operating conditions to ensure a safe and economical operations.

Job Responsibilities

• Operate control panels during start-up shutdown normal and emergency operations on the gas turbine heat recovery steam generators high-temperature hot water generators electric driven chillers and other major equipment in accordance with operating procedures and instructions to maintain a safe and efficient operation.
• Synchronize and parallel generator to regulate voltage frequency and load.
• Perform and direct operational tests.
• Direct Equipment Operators and/or Apprentices to place equipment in or out of service. Provide on-the-job training to assigned personnel.
• Work within and insure strict adherence to all safety and environmental procedures. Lock out and tag out equipment to ensure a safe work environment for plant personnel working on equipment. Prepare equipment and make ready for service after repairs are complete.
• Maintain operational logs and prepare reports as directed by the Operations Manager. Report any abnormal or irregular conditions that develop during the progress of the work and take corrective measures within the scope of operating instructions.
• Perform troubleshooting diagnostics and repairs to correct the cause of any operational abnormality or problem.
• Perform emergency operations during unit trips and abnormal operating conditions to place plant equipment in a safe operating condition.
• Perform/Direct housekeeping tasks to maintain a clean safe work environment and professional appearance.
• Perform other tasks as directed by the Operations Manager.
• The above statements reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the job and are not to be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position.

Job Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent experience Recommended NYC & Federal Refrigeration Licenses and NYC Boiler License.
• Must meet (Completed) all the Watch Engineer Assistant Watch Engineers and Apprentice requirements as outlined in the JFK Energy Center. Must have had at least one years experience as an Assistant Watch Engineer or equivalent.
• Must have a thorough knowledge of established operating procedures rules and instructions pertaining to the duties to be performed.
• Must have a thorough knowledge of the function and operation of major plant equipment. Must know the full procedure for starting up and shutting down the gas turbines steam turbines heat recovery steam generators high temperature hot water generators chillers and other major equipment.
• Must be able to give receive and execute orders with accuracy. Must be capable of assuming the supervisory responsibilities related to the work he/she will perform.
• Must be able to troubleshoot and diagnose problems in systems read and interpret blueprints equipment specifications and vendor service manuals. Ability to understand develop and/or complete records and reports as required.
• Must be cooperative with those he/she contacts in this work (Co-Worker Terminal Operators Port Authority Personnel and General Public) and have the ability to work without direct supervision.
• Must know the hazards involved and the safety precautions to be practiced in the operations/maintenance of power plant equipment and machinery. Work within and insure strict adherence to all safety procedures.
• The Watch Engineer must be able to climb at least 50 feet of rung ladder to access scaffolding platforms and other plant sites. Must be able to lift and carry heavy objects. Must be able to distinguish colors and perceive depth. Ability to remain alert during extended working hours. Ability to be fitted with full-faced respirator or ability to use a self-contain breathing apparatus. Ability to work in confine spaces.
• Ability to drive a company vehicle. Must possess a valid drivers license. Ability to learn new skills and knowledge. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with the possibility of weekend and holiday work as required by plant conditions.
• All employees will participate in the fitness for duty program which includes pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.

Salary Information

• Fixed Rate - $72.67

Additional Calpine Information:

• Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities Females Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
• Calpine is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website or to apply for a position please send an e-mail with your request to . Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation are made on case-by-case basis.

Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here