Summary

The Operations Manager, Hydro will manage the daily operations and production activities for the Cooper Lake and Eklutna Power Plants. This position is based in Anchorage but requires frequent travel to Cooper Lake, Eklutna and Anchorage offices.

Supervise and lead operators in all aspects of power plant operations.

Manages the daily production activities for the plants.

Review operating data to ensure economic operation, safety procedures are followed, and deficiencies are corrected, all permit requirements are met.

Develops, implements, updates, and maintains operations and maintenance plans, procedures, checklists, site policies, training/qualification programs, safety programs, and work practices.

Responsible for ensuring the plant maintains compliance with all permit conditions, environmental health and safety programs, local laws, ordinances, and standards.

Monitor and execute regulatory requirement for FERC and the State of Alaska.

Participates in recruitment and selection process of operations personnel.

Develops and implements operator training programs. Responsible for maintaining operator qualifications.

Manages water treatment programs.

Coordinates plant safety programs, including required training for lock-out/tag-out procedures.

Coordinates with purchasing and warehouse to acquire parts and material needed for the plant.

Assists in engineering and implementing plant upgrades and modifications.

Reviews and analyzes daily equipment log sheets, alarm conditions, and other operational data. Ensures all abnormal conditions are documented, root cause analysis performed, corrective action taken, and details communicated to operations personnel.

 Determines the need for the repairs required on plant systems and equipment in cooperation with the Plant Manager and Maintenance Manager. Initiates work order requests for such maintenance using the Computerized Maintenance Management System (Maximo).

Assists in preparing budget forecasts. Compares forecasts to actual expenditures and takes corrective action as required.

Routinely inspects generation equipment, auxiliary systems, outbuildings, and main structures.

Routinely evaluates assigned personnel and actively participates in the enhancement of knowledge and skills.

Ensures appropriate unit testing is performed and documented as required (i.e., vacuum decay, over-speed, emergency oil systems, etc.)

Prepares Monthly Generation Reports as required (i.e., Form 12).

Other duties as assigned.

Relationships

Internal

Plant Manager, Peaking & Hydro:  Reports to, receives direction from and consults with

Maintenance Operators: Supervises

External

Bargaining Unit Representatives

Federal, State and Local Permitting Agencies

Engineers and Consultants:  Provides information to and receives information from

Competencies

Must be highly organized and possess excellent supervisory skills.

Must be highly self-motivated and able to function efficiently with little or no supervision.

Must be capable of interpreting and applying complex blueprints, schematics, technical letters, and vendor manuals.

Must be knowledgeable and skilled in the operation of hydroelectric generators and auxiliary systems.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has the supervisory responsibility for the Hydro Maintenance Operators.

Work Environment

Plant operations can be a 24 hours per day, 7 days per week basis, and work may be expected in excess of a normal workday as needed to achieve plant availability and reliability requirements. Frequent travel to the Cooper Lake, Eklutna and the Anchorage offices is expected. Overnight stays at Cooper Lake are to be expected. This will also include infrequent periods of around the clock work during emergencies and equipment testing. Must fly on chartered aircraft, sometimes in marginal weather. May be exposed to extreme noise and heat. Schedule and base location may be modified due to changes in Association business plans and/or operational needs.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

Education

A bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, instrumentation engineering or a related field from an accredited college or university is required. Formal training and education in the operation and maintenance of power plants is desired.

Experience

Minimum of five years supervisory experience in the operation and maintenance of power plants is required Industrial Hydroelectric experience is a desired. Supervisory experience is desired. Experience working in a union environment preferred.

Substitution

A high level of operations and maintenance experience in power plant operation with a history of progressive responsibility may substitute for a bachelor’s degree. Comparable work experience, e.g., direction of work in a utility environment or with supervision of bargaining unit employees, may be considered as a substitute for the direct supervision of operation and maintenance in a power plant.