Operations Technician

The Calgary-area generating facilities include the 115 MW Cavalier Energy Centre, a natural gas-fired combined-cycle generating station located near Strathmore, the 330 MW Calgary Energy Centre (CEC), and the 868 MW Shepard Energy Centre in Calgary.

These facilities play a critical role in providing reliable, efficient electricity to support Alberta's growing energy demands. Each site utilizes advanced gas turbine and steam turbine technology, contributing to a dependable and resilient power supply for the province.

Opportunity Summary

The Operations Technician is a key member of the Operations and Maintenance team, responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power generation equipment at the Cavalier Energy Centre and other Calgary-area generating facilities as required. This role provides hands-on experience with combined-cycle generation systems, including plant equipment, Distributed Control Systems (DCS), condition monitoring technologies, and equipment inspections. The successful candidate will support plant operations, troubleshooting activities, and predictive, preventative, and corrective maintenance programs while contributing to overall operational excellence.

Your scope of responsibility as Operations Technician will include the following primary functions:

• Supports all work activities at the facility, including coordinating with suppliers and contractors to ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
• Manages assigned systems or plant areas during planned maintenance outages to ensure all required work is identified, coordinated, and completed.
• Maintains all required safety and site-specific training certifications and qualifications.
• Implements and administers safe work systems, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, hot work, and work authorization processes.
• Operates environmental monitoring systems to ensure regulatory compliance and data accuracy.
• Utilizes organizational IT systems and demonstrates proficiency with the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and document management systems for daily operations and record retention.
• Prepares and submits accurate, timely, and concise information for internal and external reporting requirements.
• Monitors site security by overseeing physical and cyber access controls, reporting actual or suspected breaches, and coordinating with suppliers and contractors to ensure work and deliveries are completed safely and efficiently.
• Participates in inventory management activities, including stock-taking and adherence to established inventory control procedures.
• Applies an understanding of Alberta Reliability Standards and fulfills required operational responsibilities.
• Contributes to the development and enhancement of standards and procedures within areas of expertise and supports audits, inspections, and assessments to drive continuous improvement.
• Achieves individual and team performance objectives, including goals established through incentive compensation programs.
• Assists in developing key plant performance indicators by leveraging equipment knowledge and supporting initiatives focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
• Provides operational input into long-range equipment strategies by identifying improvement opportunities and supporting the planning of major maintenance activities.
• Demonstrates ownership and accountability for tools and equipment used in daily operations and maintenance activities to preserve their condition, reliability, and value.
• Supports the development and application of risk management practices through knowledge of equipment history, operating experience, and maintenance findings.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Operations Coordinator or Team Leader.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value of NAES and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to be mentally alert and work safely at all times. Additionally, employees are required to adhere to all safety warnings and posted safety signs whenever on company property. Furthermore, employees must follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Working Relationships

The Operations Technician reports to the Operations Coordinator and coordinates with all other plant personnel as needed in the daily operation of the plant.

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 23 kilograms (50 pounds).

Work is performed in a power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials. Employees may be exposed to fumes, extreme temperatures, elevated noise levels, and varying outdoor weather conditions, including heat near operating equipment.

Some duties may require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, face shields, respirators, hearing protection, chemical-resistant suits, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Respirator fit testing may be required. Strict no-smoking policies apply in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All employees participate in a Fitness for Duty Programme, which includes a post-offer medical assessment and substance screening. Ongoing random testing may be conducted post-employment.

Work Schedule

The Operations 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 may occasionally require extended hours or flexible scheduling, including weekends and statutory holidays, based on plant conditions and operational needs. The Operations Technician rotates across different positions and steps in as needed, including during vacation periods.

Core Qualifications And Skills

Education and Certifications/Licenses

• Second Class Inter-Provincial Power Engineering Certificate preferred. A Third-Class Power Engineering Certificate may also be considered as a minimum requirement when combined with sufficient power generation plant experience.
• A related Technology or Trade Certification would be considered an asset.

Experience & Attributes

• The Operations Technician must be adaptable, knowledgeable in plant operations, and capable of handling diverse tasks while ensuring plant safety and efficiency.
• Minimum 3 years progressive work experience in power generation or related large industrial facilities.
• Additional experience with machinery inspection or repair, and experience with control systems preferred.
• Knowledge of the types of equipment installed, derived through combination of hands-on experience and formal training performed in the manufacturer’s factory and/or at the job site.
• Knowledge and demonstrated ability to safely operate hand tools, test equipment and calibration appliances.
• Ability to respond calmly and think clearly in emergency situations.
• Must be able to visually read and respond to computer-generated data, instrumentation, gauges, readouts, and variations in colors.
• Must have manual dexterity required to operate keyboards, pushbuttons, dials, valves, and mechanical actuating devices.
• Advanced knowledge in electrical systems and use of Distributive Control Systems in the operation of a power generating facility preferred.
• Must possess a valid and unrestricted driver’s licence, ensuring it remains in good standing at all times.

What We Offer

• Competitive Compensation
• Medical, dental and other benefits
• Vested Retention Program
• Annual Bonus Incentives
• RRSP Matching Program

Energy People Making Energy Facilities Work – Better

• NAES Canada is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. It is the practice of NAES Canada to seek employees of the highest quality and to select individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, colour, national or ethnic origin, genetic characteristics, religious beliefs, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, family status, source of income, sexual orientation, and for a conviction for which a pardon has been granted or a record suspended which is protected by applicable local, provincial and federal law.