Rathdrum Power, LLC. (Rathdrum) is a 275 MW combined-cycle natural gas-fired project that commenced commercial operation in September 2001 and is tolled under a long-term agreement with Avista Corporation, the term of the agreement running through October 2041.  Rathdrum is platformed on GE 7FA.03 gas turbine technology, an Alborg heat recovery steam generator, and a GE A10 steam turbine. Rathdrum is a recent vintage, environmentally compliant, and highly reliable electric power generation facility.

Opportunity Summary

The Plant Engineer at Rathdrum holds a critical role in optimizing reliability and maximizing operational efficiency. The successful candidate will play a key role in long-term maintenance planning, planning and management of non-routine and capex projects, tracking Generating Availability Data System (GADS) data and accurately reporting to regulatory bodies, performing root cause analyses, and coordinating with external contacts to resolve technical issues. The Plant Engineer evaluates control systems, implements condition monitoring techniques, manages instrumentation systems, and oversees engineering programs that enhance plant reliability and long-term profitability. This multifaceted role requires a deep understanding of engineering principles and thermal power generation, and strong communication skills to support continuous improvement efforts, minimize downtime, and meet performance expectations under the tolling agreement.

Your scope of responsibility as Plant Engineer includes the following primary functions:

Engineering, Project Management, and Reliability

Track forced outages and generation losses across major plant systems. Perform root cause analysis and ensure accurate reporting to support operational transparency and tolling agreement compliance. Lead and support root cause analyses (RCA) of equipment failures, forced outages, and performance deviations to identify underlying issues and implement corrective actions. Utilize industry best practices such as the “5 Whys,” fault tree analysis, and failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA). Collaborate with operations, maintenance, OEMs, and other stakeholders to document findings, develop mitigation strategies, and drive continuous improvement in plant reliability and availability. Coordinate with external vendors, OEMs, and service providers to plan and execute maintenance activities, inspections, and capital projects. Ensure scope, schedule, and budget alignment while maintaining compliance with safety, regulatory, and performance standards. Facilitate clear communication between internal teams and external partners to ensure successful project execution and resolution of technical issues. Monitor and analyze plant performance metrics, including heat rate, thermal efficiency, and equipment performance, to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. Develop and maintain performance tracking tools and reports, conduct variance analyses, and work with operations and maintenance teams to implement performance optimization strategies that support reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Provide technical support for plant control systems, including troubleshooting, configuration, and optimization of DCS, PLCs, and HMI systems. Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure reliable and accurate control of plant equipment and processes. Coordinate with OEMs and control system vendors for upgrades, patches, and modifications while maintaining proper documentation and change management protocols. Support plant reliability by developing and implementing condition-based and predictive maintenance programs. Utilize tools such as vibration analysis, infrared thermography, oil analysis, ultrasonic testing, and pattern recognition to monitor equipment health and detect early signs of degradation. Collaborate with maintenance and engineering support teams to plan corrective actions, reduce unplanned outages, and extend asset life through data-driven decision-making. Conduct reliability and performance assessments to maximize plant availability and reduce capacity derates, focusing on improved asset utilization. Oversee third party calibration and maintenance of instrumentation and measurement systems to ensure data accuracy for operations, compliance, and settlements. Administer the plant’s Management of Change (MOC) processes to ensure all physical, procedural, or operational changes are reviewed, documented, and approved in accordance with safety, regulatory, and corporate standards. Coordinate with cross-functional teams to evaluate potential risks, update drawings and documentation, and ensure proper training and communication prior to implementing changes. Support the development and execution of long-term non-routine maintenance and capital improvement plans. Identify and scope major equipment overhauls, system upgrades, and reliability enhancements, including technical justification and cost-benefit analysis. Support the annual and multi-year CAPEX budgets, support prioritization of projects based on risk and asset condition, and coordinate project execution in alignment with plant operational goals and financial targets. Perform other tasks assigned by the Plant Manager, contributing to safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the combined-cycle facility.

Environmental and NERC Compliance Support

Responsible for supporting plant Operator and Owner NERC and environmental accountabilities. Manage and maintain compliance with NERC Generation Availability Data System (GADS) reporting requirements by tracking unit performance, outage events, and operating data. Ensure timely and accurate submission of GADS reports, coordinate internal data collection processes, and support root cause analysis and classification of outage events in accordance with NERC guidelines. Understand and interpret regulatory requirements (know where to obtain information and interpret requirements to be applied at the plant level). Support data analysis and report structuring for the purposes of clearly documenting and demonstrating compliance with applicable NERC Reliability Compliance Standards. Support regulatory and internal compliance audits by ensuring accurate documentation, timely data collection, and effective coordination with cross-functional teams.  Prepare and organize technical records, operational logs, and performance data for audit readiness. Assist with implementation of corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives resulting from audit findings. Support compliance audits by providing accurate, technically competent input that appropriately represents stakeholders during compliance visits. Support plant NERC Reliability procedure and policy updates as needed. Support and participate in NAES Safety and Regulatory Compliance Programs, including procedures related to the SCR and emissions systems.

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 Plant Engineer reports to the Plant Manager. The Plant Engineer cooperates with the Operations and Maintenance Manager, Compliance Manager and Administrative Supervisor as needed in the daily operation of the plant. The successful candidate will maintain a positive relationship with NAES Corporate Engineering Support Services and other corporate groups. The Plant Engineer will coordinate with operations on matters concerning environmental compliance.

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 Plant Engineer works a standard Monday to Friday day shift schedule, ensuring consistent plant operation and support during regular business hours.

This position will 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.

Some travel may be involved to participate in Manager, Owner, User Group, or other offsite meetings.

Compensation

This position offers an annual base salary ranging from $124,400 to $174,100 and includes eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Professional Expertise & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in engineering discipline is required (Electrical, Chemical, or Mechanical is preferred.)    Minimum of 5 years of experience in power generation, plant engineering, with demonstrated responsibility in operations, maintenance, project execution, or performance optimization.  Other relevant experience will be considered. Previous experience in root cause analysis and reporting of forced outages and loss of generation is highly desirable.  Ability to analyze equipment failures, identify root causes, and develop effective recovery plans. Demonstrated experience managing technical projects from initiation through completion, including scope development, budgeting, scheduling, procurement, contractor oversight, and closeout. Proven ability to coordinate cross-functional teams, manage competing priorities, and deliver projects safely, on time, and within budget. Experience supporting NERC and Environmental compliance matters for operating facilities is desired, preferably in a power plant or power-related industry. Proficiency in analyzing and optimizing control systems, including DCS and PLC systems. Strong understanding of condition monitoring techniques such as vibration analysis, thermography, and oil analysis. Familiarity with instrumentation and measurement systems, including calibration and maintenance procedures. Proven track record of implementing cost-effective solutions to prevent equipment failures and optimize plant performance. General knowledge of major environmental legislation concerning air, water, hazardous materials, and waste management. Familiarity with applicable safety statutes and regulations and understanding of principles associated with maintaining a strong safety program. Excellent writing and analytical skills, with the ability to present facts, conclusions, and recommendations effectively in written communications. Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing.

Desired Software Proficiencies

Proficient in advanced Microsoft Excel functions, including pivot tables, data analysis tools, and complex formulas, with hands-on experience developing and maintaining VBA macros to automate reporting, streamline data processing, and enhance analytical capabilities. Experienced with AVEVA PI System for real-time data monitoring and analysis, including use of PI DataLink Excel add-in to extract and analyze operational data and performance trends. Proficient in developing dashboards and visualizations in PI Vision to support performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and decision-making. Familiarity with DCS platforms such as GE Mark VIe, or Emerson Delta V for alarm review, trend analysis, and basic control logic understanding. Experience with CMMS systems such as Maximo, SAP PM, or similar for tracking work orders, asset history, and preventive maintenance planning. Proficient in Microsoft Project, SharePoint, and Teams for collaboration, scheduling, and document control. Working knowledge of Power BI or similar tools for building performance dashboards and visual reports is preferred.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have built a reputation as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Our growing family of companies allows us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.