Manufacturing Operator Jobs in New Mexico

INTRODUCTION

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Deming, New Mexico, the Luna Energy Facility is a natural gas-fired combined cycle power plant with a capacity of 570 MW. The plant features two GE 7FA+e combustion turbines equipped with dry low-NOx combustion and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems for advanced emissions control. Supported by two single reheat HRSGs and a GE D11 steam turbine generator, the Luna Energy Facility plays a pivotal role in delivering reliable and efficient power to the vibrant Deming community.

Opportunity Summary

The Auxiliary Operator plays an essential role in supporting the operation of the Luna Energy Facility. This position involves active participation in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of critical plant processes, including water and gas chemistry analysis; inspecting and monitoring operating components; performing operational tests, system inspections, and minor maintenance; and reporting plant status to ensure the facility operates safely, cleanly, and efficiently. The Auxiliary Operator works closely with the control room, plant management, and the operations and maintenance teams to maintain stable and compliant plant performance.

Your scope of responsibility as Auxiliary Operator will include the following primary functions:

• Assist in start-up, shutdown and normal operations of power plant systems.
• Operate and monitor major auxiliary systems and locally controlled electrical and mechanical equipment, including air compressors, circulating water systems, boiler feedwater and condensate systems, wastewater systems, generator cooling systems, and boiler feedwater treatment systems.
• Perform routine operational tests, inspections, and minor repairs or adjustments to assigned equipment to maintain proper operating conditions.
• Execute direction from the Control Room Operator at local and isolated panels to place equipment in or out of service in accordance with established operating instructions and procedures, including clearing, tagging, testing, and applying safety tape.
• Conduct routine water and gas chemistry analyses and operate Continuous Emissions Monitoring (CEM) equipment in compliance with environmental and operational requirements.
• Maintain accurate logs, records, and documentation as assigned.
• Identify, report, and respond to abnormal or irregular operating conditions, taking corrective actions within the scope of operating procedures.
• Support maintenance activities by assisting maintenance personnel during scheduled and unscheduled maintenance periods.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Control Room Operator or Operations Manager.

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 Auxiliary Operator reports to the Operations Manager and takes direction from the Control Room Operator and other members of the plant management team depending on assigned duties.

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 Auxiliary Operator follows a modified DuPont rotating 12-hour shift schedule, ensuring 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts that includes built-in rest days to support continuous and reliable plant operations.

Shift schedules may be adjusted as needed based on dispatch requirements. 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 $33 to $39 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

We are seeking a capable and safety-minded Operator with foundational experience in natural gas–fired combined-cycle power generation operations and a strong commitment to teamwork and performance excellence.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or certification in Power Plant Technology, Process Operations, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in power plant operations or an equivalent level of industry knowledge.
• Experience in water chemistry control, water treatment facility operations, water condition analysis, and chemical handling requirements required.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge of combustion and steam turbine operations, closed-loop steam generation systems, hazardous waste management, and plant parameter inspection and documentation desirable.
• Working knowledge of industrial safety practices, including hazard identification, lockout/tagout, confined space entry, fall protection, and high-voltage electrical safety.
• Ability to read and interpret piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), piping and instrument schematics, equipment manuals, and operational procedures; familiarity with process controls desirable.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and maintain it in good standing.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Computer Skills
• Piping & Instrumentation Schematics - Read & Interpret
• Power Plant Fundamentals
• Power Plant Operations
• Verbal and Written Communications
• Water and Steam Chemistry
• Water Treatment
• RSAW - Reliability Standard Audit Worksheet
• Safety & Compliance Standards (OSHA/NFPA/EPA)
• Power Generation
• Combined Cycle O&M
• Gas Turbine O&M
• HRSG - Heat Recovery Steam Generator
• Steam Turbine O&M
• Chemistry Analysis and Testing

BEHAVIORS

• Leader: Inspires teammates to follow them
• Team Player: Works well as a member of a group
• Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking
• Functional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subject

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.