Power Plant Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CLASS SUMMARY Performs supervisory and technical work monitoring and controlling boiler, turbine and auxiliary waste to energy plant equipment from the control room on an assigned shift. EXAMPLES OF JOB FUNCTIONS Maintains safe, efficient and productive boiler operation, including combustion; maximizes power generation and manages in-plant power consumption; operates plant within all applicable permits. Monitors and inspects plant operational and emissions data; detects and responds to changing conditions with regard to maximizing plant safety and efficiency.

Adjusts manual controls or overrides automatic controls to bring equipment into recommended or prescribed operating ranges, switch to backup equipment or systems, or to shut down equipment. Inspects equipment to detect malfunctions or need for repair, adjustment or lubrication. Oversees the operation of plant equipment; dispatches Assistant Plant Operators and Utility Operators for local monitoring.

Works with maintenance to troubleshoot problems, ascertain probable cause, and perform basic maintenance tasks. Coordinates, directs, and trains subordinates as required. Reads meters and gauges or automatic recording devices at specified intervals to verify operating conditions.

Records data such as temperature of equipment, hours of operation, fuel consumed, temperature or pressure, water levels, analysis of flue gases, voltage load and generator balance. Records operation and maintenance actions taken during shift in operator's logbook. Directs plant personnel in the safe operation of plant equipment and casualty control measures.

Conducts nondestructive testing of boiler tubes. Performs tasks as required to comply with safety and environmental standards, including but not limited to fire watch, confined space attendant, confined space entrant, chemical spill response. Performs related work as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Open Entry Requirements: Education: High school diploma or equivalent Experience: Two years of experience as a Power Plant Operator or equivalent position in the operation of a solid waste combustion facility or in occupations concerned with the design, start-up, or operation of boilers, steam turbines, or related machinery which supply power or steam to an industrial, maritime, or commercial process or facility. Substitution: Completion of 90 quarter or 60 semester credits from an accredited college or university in courses closely related to physical science or engineering may substitute for one year of the required experience. License and Certification: All applicants must possess a valid driver's license.

All applicants hired must obtain a valid Provisional Certification under the ASME QRO Certification for Operators of Resource Recovery Facilities program, as well as required local, state and federal licenses, within the probationary period. NOTE: Individuals in this classification must successfully complete the WTE Power Plant Operator training program and additional required environmental, health, and safety training (as designated on the Environmental Training Matrix and the Training Requirements spreadsheet) within their probationary period. EXAMINATION DETAILS Applicants must first meet the minimum qualifications to be invited to take the examination.

Those who pass the examination will then go on the hiring list. The examination will consist of the following: Training and Experience Evaluation 30% Multiple Choice 70% This is an online examination that will require a computer. If you do not have access to a computer, please notify Civil Service so that one may be provided.

Computer reservations can also be made through your local public library. Training & Experience Evaluation: A Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E) is a written test where the applicant answers structured questions based on their previous experience and training or education. The T&E examination consists of a Supplemental Questionnaire.

The questions may be viewed online under the tab marked "QUESTIONS" on the job announcement page. The T&E must be submitted online, at the time of application. Please view this video for tips to help you fill out the T&E.

Multiple-Choice Examination: Multiple-choice examination instructions and links will be emailed to qualified applicants on June 3rd, 2026. The testing window is June 4th - 8th, 2026. Please note: The email will come from City of Spokane (info@governmentjobs.com)

Possible subjects covered in the multiple-choice examination: Safety Blueprint/Schematic Reading Steam, Turbines, Combustion Mathematical Reasoning Interpersonal & Communication Skills For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website. Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory, or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity within our organization.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status, genetic information, veteran/military status, or disability status. As a Fair Chance Employer, City of Spokane does not conduct initial background screening for non-public safety positions.