WTE Power Plant Operator
Spokane
Monday, 18 May 2026
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.