Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in New Jersey

The Linden Generation Station is an 800 MW natural gas/butane gas fired combined cycle co-generation plant located at Railroad and Chemical Avenues within the Phillips 66 refinery. The plant consists of five gas turbine generators exhausting into five triple pressure Heat Recovery Steam Generators (HRSG’s). The HRSG's are connected to a common steam header which supplies steam to three steam turbines and the adjacent refinery.

Opportunity Summary

The Control Room Operator plays a critical role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power plant systems. This position involves monitoring and operating distributed control system (DCS) panels, turbines, and auxiliary equipment while maintaining compliance with safety and environmental standards. Additionally, the role requires responding promptly to operational directives, addressing anomalies, and contributing to staff training and plant performance optimization.

This position is represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 94 and is subject to a Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Your scope of responsibility as Control Room Operator will include the following primary functions: 

• Respond promptly to the directions of the Shift Supervisor.
• Ensure the plant operates within design limits whenever feasible.
• Conduct routine inspections and complete assigned tasks to support the site’s Discharge Prevention, Containment, and Countermeasures (DPCC) Plan. Handle hazardous materials and waste safely and in an environmentally responsible manner.
• Operate and monitor distributed control system (DCS) control panels, combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems to regulate turbine loads, maintain proper steam temperature, pressure, feedwater, and fuel supply, and ensure safe and efficient combustion conditions.
• Perform the start-up, operation, and shut-down of all equipment, including turbine generators, in compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Synchronize generators and regulate load, voltage, and frequency.
• Clear alarms by taking appropriate actions and initiate start-up or shut-down procedures as directed by the Shift Supervisor.
• Report upset conditions, anomalies, or plant abnormalities to the Shift Supervisor and appropriate personnel, ensuring issues are addressed in a coordinated manner.
• Record necessary information in the Operating Log as required.
• Assist in staff training and development initiatives as needed to improve operational competency.
• Perform remote-control switching operations as directed to ensure continuity of service.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees must also adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property. Additionally, they are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Adherence to these safety responsibilities is one of the key factors in the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Working Relationships

The CRO reports to the Shift Supervisor and receives general direction from the Operations Lead Supervisor. The CRO provides direction to subordinate Assistant Plant Operators and coordinates with all plant personnel to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the plant.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.

Power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near equipment and varying outdoor weather conditions.

Some duties may require the use of protective equipment, which can include hard hats, safety glasses, and eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions apply in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.

Work Schedule

The Control Room Operator follows DuPont’s rotating 12-hour shift schedule, providing 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts to ensure consistent and reliable plant operation.

This position will also occasionally necessitate extended working hours and flexible shifts as needed, including weekends and holidays, in response to schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or “On call” status may also be required.

Compensation

This position offers a starting pay rate of $59.50 per hour.

Core Qualifications and Skills

We are seeking a skilled Operator with a foundation in power generation operations, along with a proven ability to support team success and consistently meet performance standards.

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions related to the assigned area, typically gained through successful completion of high school or equivalent education. An Associate degree in power plant technology, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education on a year-for-year basis.
• At minimum, must currently hold and maintain a valid New Jersey Class I (Black Seal) Steam Engineer’s License. New Jersey Class II (Blue Seal) Steam Engineer’s License preferred, or the ability to obtain one within a specified time frame.
• Must currently possess or have the ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card upon hire.
• Experience as a Control Room Operator or in a similar position at an operating or generating plant is required, with preference for experience in the direct operation of a combined cycle large-frame gas turbine power plant.
• Comprehensive knowledge of power plant operations, including control room functions, equipment monitoring, system optimization, combustion and steam turbine operations, and closed system generation. Proficient in industrial safety, hazardous waste management, and the inspection and recording of plant parameters.
• Experience in water chemistry control, condition analysis, water treatment operations, and chemical handling is desired.
• Proficient in interpreting technical documents, including piping and instrument diagrams, DCS logic, and operational procedures.
• Skilled in managing operational challenges, troubleshooting, implementing corrective actions, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, environmental regulations, and industry best practices.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to train and lead personnel in the effective and safe operation of the plant.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have built a reputation as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Our growing family of companies allows us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, 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 form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.