Job Details

CLOVERLAND ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

APPRENTICE POWER PLANT OPERATOR-MECHANIC

HYDRO PLANT | GENERATION DIVISION | MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT

STATUS: FULL-TIME | NON-EXEMPT | UNION

JOB CODE: 53-6423

POSITION FUNCTION/OBJECTIVE

The Apprentice Power Plant Operator-Mechanic is an entry-level role which will train with and support the following classifications: Repairman, Welder, Machinist, Electrician, and Generator Operator. This position will require the Apprentice to complete online correspondence educational coursework annually, along with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training over a 4-year period. Responsibilities include assisting each classification with the upkeep of Hydro plant systems and diesel plants. Before progressing to a Journeyman Power Plant Operator-Mechanic position, the Apprentice must be able to successfully complete the apprenticeship and maintain the following nationally recognized certifications/licensures: Mobile Crane Operator-Telescopic Boom Crane-Swing Cab, Overhead Crane Operator-Cab Operated, Rigger and Signalperson Class A Commercial Driver's License, and State of Michigan Boater Safety Certificate.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Will assist other journeymen in identifying and fixing problems in the plant and with associated water passage structures. Upon identification, will communicate findings with Maintenance Foreman and supervisor and will assist in devising the workplan for repair.
2. Will assist other classifications in operating various systems or machinery based on instructions or specifications. This includes operating equipment, leveling and aligning turbines and generators, adjusting wicket gates, and operating turbine control board panels.
3. On a regular basis will assist with inspection of the exterior and physical integrity of the hydropower facilities and dams; climbing ladders to inspect, troubleshoot, or repair equipment; collect turbine data for testing or research and analysis; perform routine maintenance on hydropower plant machinery, as well as mechanical and hydraulic systems; troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic or electrical malfunctions; replace worn or malfunctioning components; operate hydropower plant equipment in accordance with specifications and instructions.
4. Will assist other classifications in performing general powerhouse mechanical equipment maintenance. Duties include identification and correction of problems causing mechanical equipment malfunctions, as well as performing periodic and unscheduled maintenance/repair of equipment common to hydroelectric facilities. Such equipment can include but is not limited to turbines, generators, governors, spillway and intake hoist equipment, pneumatic devises, HVAC equipment, sewage and water treatment facilities, hydraulic equipment, etc.
5. Will learn and be required to operate a gate hoist, overhead cranes, hydraulic boom cranes, boat, fork lift, dump truck, tractor, aerial lifts, and canal head gates.
6. Will be assigned on-the-job training (OJT) hours, working with the electricians, welder, machinist, and generator operator to apply knowledge obtained from educational coursework.
7. Will assist all classifications with set-up and completion of jobs, ensuring tools and equipment are available for assigned work. Will also be responsible for clean-up, ensuring all tools and equipment are cleaned and returned to respective locations.
8. Promote and follow safety consciousness and compliance. Will participate in job hazard analyses, requests and holds, safe clearances, attend and participate in regularly scheduled safety meetings, and maintain and support a safe working environment for self and others. Observe all traffic rules and regulations while operating cooperative vehicles.
9. Reasonably respond to after-hours calls as needed for immediate or emergent repairs within the hydro plant system or diesel facilities.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. Work is both indoor and outdoor and temperature can be variable at times. Temperatures within the plants may range from subzero to high heat and humidity. Must be available for work during adverse weather conditions.
2. Good physical condition and dexterity are required. Moving weights 100 pounds or more may be required. Medium work requiring exertion of up to 50-75 pounds of force occasionally and up to 20 pounds of force more frequently. Lifting and carrying 10-50 pounds occasionally. Position requires climbing.
3. Position requires the individual to be capable of stooping, bending, reaching (overhead), climbing, grasping, pushing, pulling, and having the ability to walk long distances, or work in poorly accessible sites. The position requires walking in all types of terrain, sitting, standing, and driving/riding in vehicle. Depending on location, will be exposed to noise levels averaging 80-100 decibels. Protective equipment such as eye and ear protectors and hard hat are required.
4. Good hand-to-eye coordination is necessary, as is the ability to read electronic displays and screens, printed materials, and maps. Must be capable of utilizing handheld and manually operated tools that are coincident with the duties of the position.
5. Must be able to communicate clearly and accurately.
6. Motor vehicles, boats, cranes, computers, small handheld or mobile electrical instruments and devices, customary office and business communications equipment are utilized in this position. The individual should be familiar with and capable of operating equipment utilized in the maintenance, repair and construction operation.
7. Must be willing to submit to alcohol and drug testing, per Cooperative policy.
8. Hazards include working at heights, up to 50 feet, turbulent water, live electrical, and radiant energy.

    

AUTHORITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

1. This position reports to the Hydro Plant Manager.
2. Employees are also accountable to the management of the Cooperative for the efficient performance of these duties.
3. Employees are encouraged to use initiative and judgment in making decisions, remembering that the Cooperative's best interest can be affected by their actions. Every employee should feel free to make suggestions for the improvement of operations and efficiency.
4. Expected to obtain and maintain nationally recognized certifications for: Mobile Crane Operator-Telescopic Boom Crane-Swing Cab, Overhead Crane Operator-Cab Operated, Rigger and Signalperson, as well as a valid class A commercial driver's license and DOT medical examination card, State of Michigan Boater Safety Certificate.

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS

This position is union, and classified as non-exempt under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Non-exempt employees are paid on an hourly basis. Overtime shall be paid according to the contractual agreement.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

1. High School diploma or GED Equivalent.
2. 2-3 years of experience in a skilled trade, preferred.
3. Class A Commercial Driver's License, or the ability to obtain within the first year of employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

1. Knowledge of methods, equipment and materials used in various trades professions.
2. Proficient knowledge of health and safety regulations.
3. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
4. Demonstrated ability to analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.