Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Technician

Canyon Peak Power, situated in Bennett, Colorado, is a 162 MW simple-cycle gas facility delivering reliable, on-demand energy. The plant features six GE LM2500 simple-cycle gas turbines, offering rapid-start capability and high operational flexibility. Designed to support grid stability, it plays a critical role in meeting peak electricity demand across the region.

Opportunity Summary

The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Technician at Canyon Peak Power ensures reliable and efficient operation of power plant systems, including simple-cycle combustion turbines and auxiliary equipment such as air compressors, demineralized water systems, generator cooling systems, and condensers. They perform startup, shutdown, inspections, and minor repairs while following safety protocols and maintaining accurate operational logs. By collaborating with maintenance teams and using Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), the technician supports equipment reliability and helps maintain safe, efficient, and responsive plant operations.

Your scope of responsibility as O&M Technician will include the following primary functions:

• Start up, shut down, and operate plant systems, including six GE LM2500 simple-cycle gas turbines and auxiliary systems, both inside and outside the control room.
• Complete operator qualification and demonstrate understanding of engines, auxiliaries, electrical systems, emissions control, cooling, fire, and plant air systems; operate the plant independently during on-call rotations to support rapid-start, on-demand operations.
• Perform equipment inspections, operating tests, minor repairs, and daily rounds to ensure proper functioning, detect abnormalities, and prevent downtime.
• Prepare equipment for service and perform equipment isolation in accordance with plant procedures and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) protocols.
• Monitor operational parameters and system performance, making adjustments to maintain safe, efficient, and optimum generation for peak demand.
• Conduct proper turnover with relief operators, including reviewing logs, plant conditions, and special orders.
• Report abnormal or irregular conditions promptly and take corrective actions within prescribed guidelines; perform emergency or abnormal operations as needed to maintain or return equipment to service.
• Support maintenance activities by assisting teams with preventive, minor, and major maintenance tasks, documenting work, and tracking parts in CMMS.
• Calibrate and repair instrumentation and electrical circuits; assist with troubleshooting PLCs, control systems, and automation components.
• Maintain plant and grounds in clean, orderly condition and oversee safe off-loading of bulk chemicals, fuels, and lube oil deliveries.
• Observe, correct, and report hazards or unsafe conditions; respond to spills, leaks, and other environmental incidents; test and operate fire and chemical safety equipment as directed.
• Participate in scheduled safety meetings and training and assist in training other personnel to support skill development, turbine familiarity, and operational continuity.
• Maintain accurate logs of operational activities, equipment status, and any abnormalities; conduct proper turnover with relief operators and document all work completed in CMMS.
• Operate site vehicles safely, including pickups, forklifts, and aerial lifts, in compliance with plant safety protocols.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support safe, reliable, and flexible operations that meet peak electricity demand and maintain grid stability.

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 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 works a rotating 12-hour shift schedule, alternating between days and nights to support continuous 24/7 operations and ensure seamless shift transitions.

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 base pay rate ranging from $38 to $48 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

We are looking for a skilled Technician with experience in power generation operations and maintenance, coupled with a proven ability to contribute effectively to team success and consistently meet performance standards.

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions for assigned responsibilities, typically acquired through a high school diploma or equivalent. An Associate degree in power plant technology, instrumentation and control, electrical/mechanical engineering technology, or a related technical field is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• Proven hands-on experience in power plant operations and maintenance, including startup, shutdown, inspections, and routine operation of combustion turbines and auxiliary systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance at a technician level.
• Experience disassembling and reassembling plant components such as pumps, valves, motors, and instrumentation, including working with microprocessor-based and electronic control systems.
• Solid knowledge of turbine operations, electrical systems, process controls, instrumentation, and plant monitoring to ensure safe and reliable performance.
• Skilled in interpreting technical documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and blueprints, and in maintaining accurate records to support compliance and reliability.
• Thorough understanding of safety protocols, including Lock-Out-Tag-Out (LOTO), OSHA requirements, and environmental compliance relevant to power generation operations.
• Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams, contractors, and vendors to optimize resources and ensure timely completion of maintenance or operational tasks.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with technical writing, communication, and analytical abilities to clearly document and convey operational and maintenance solutions.
• 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.