Entry Level Power Plant Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY

The Batavia Power Plant is a 62 MW natural gas-fired facility configured as an efficient 1+1 combined cycle cogeneration block, supplying both electricity and thermal energy. Located between Buffalo and Rochester along the I-90 corridor, it benefits from strong access to transportation and transmission infrastructure. Its strategic siting and robust gas supply enable flexible, reliable operation within western New York's energy market.
Opportunity Summary
The Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Technician supports the safe, reliable operation and maintenance of the Batavia Power Plant, a 62 MW combined-cycle cogeneration facility producing both electricity and thermal energy. This hands-on role assists with operating combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and balance-of-plant equipment while performing routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting activities. The position offers structured training and development toward Control Room Operator (CRO) qualification within a collaborative power generation environment.
Your scope of responsibility as O&M Technician will include the following primary functions:

• Support the safe startup, shutdown, operation, and monitoring of combustion turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and auxiliary systems in accordance with plant procedures.
• Perform routine operating rounds, equipment inspections, and condition monitoring to identify abnormal operating conditions and support reliable plant performance.
• Monitor plant operating parameters using control systems and field instrumentation, documenting equipment status and operating data in plant logs.
• Assist with preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities on mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Support troubleshooting of plant equipment, including turbines, generators, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, compressors, and balance-of-plant systems.
• Assist with equipment isolations, system restoration, and maintenance support during planned and unplanned outages.
• Utilize the CMMS to document maintenance activities, equipment history, and work completion.
• Perform basic instrumentation, controls, and electrical (IC&E) support activities, including field verification, calibration assistance, and diagnostic troubleshooting under supervision.
• Participate in structured Control Room Operator (CRO) qualification training while developing knowledge of combined-cycle plant operations.
• Provide occasional operational and maintenance support to the Sterling Power Plant as required.
• Maintain compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements while promoting a strong safety culture.
• Fulfill other tasks as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of plant operations.

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 O&M Technician reports to the Lead O&M Technician and may also take general direction from the Plant Manager. Additionally, this position will coordinate with all other plant personnel to ensure safe and reliable plant operations.
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 O&M Technician normally works a Monday through Friday day-shift schedule. Extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, holidays, and periodic callouts or on-call assignments may be required based on plant operations, workload demands, outages, and business needs.
Occasional travel to provide backup O&M support to Sterling Power Plant as needed.
Compensation
This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $35 to $40 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.
Core Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree in power plant technology, engineering technology, or a related technical field is preferred. Equivalent military or industry experience may be considered.
• Experience supporting operations and maintenance activities in a power generation or heavy industrial facility; combined-cycle experience is preferred.
• Working knowledge of gas turbines, steam systems, HRSGs, generators, pumps, valves, compressors, and other balance-of-plant equipment.
• Basic understanding of plant operations, startup and shutdown procedures, instrumentation, controls, and electrical systems.
• Ability to inspect equipment, perform basic troubleshooting, interpret operating procedures and technical drawings, and accurately document operational activities.
• Familiarity with preventive maintenance programs, CMMS applications, and safe work practices, including OSHA requirements and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills with a commitment to safety and continuous improvement.
• 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 serve clients across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors throughout North America and internationally, supporting the full life cycle of power generation and other industrial facilities.
NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, USERRA-protected status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.