The Senior Mechanical Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and optimized operation of critical mechanical systems—including pumps, compressors, boilers, HVAC, and rotating equipment—across plant operations. This role provides technical leadership during shift operations, mentors junior staff, drives continuous improvement initiatives, and partners with maintenance and engineering to ensure maximum asset availability and performance.
Shift Leadership & Equipment Control
Oversee start-up, shutdown, and operation of mechanical plant systems per SOPs and production targets.
Monitor DCS/SCADA and instrumentation; interpret trends and adjust control set-points to optimize performance.
Advanced Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
Lead root-cause diagnostics for complex mechanical issues (vibration, cavitation, steam leaks, compressor unload cycles) and execute corrective actions.
Coordinate with maintenance teams on major repairs and parts change-outs.
Preventive & Predictive Maintenance Coordination
Champion in-shift execution of preventive tasks (lubrication, alignment, filter changes) and support predictive programs (vibration analysis, thermography, oil sampling).
Validate reliability recommendations and ensure timely closure of work orders in CMMS.
Mentorship & Training
Coach and mentor junior and mid-level operators on equipment operation, safety protocols, and troubleshooting techniques.
Lead shift handovers, ensuring clear communication of equipment status, outstanding actions, and safety observations.
Safety & Compliance
Enforce LOTO, confined-space, and other EHS procedures; conduct pre-shift safety inspections and hazard assessments.
Lead incident investigations related to mechanical systems and implement corrective/preventive measures.
Process Improvement & Optimization
Identify opportunities to improve equipment efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and minimize unplanned downtime.
Propose and implement process changes or upgrades in collaboration with engineering.
Reporting & Documentation
Maintain accurate shift logs, performance data, and maintenance requests in CMMS and shift binders.
Generate and present weekly/monthly performance reports—uptime, efficiency, alarm frequency—to operations leadership.
Leadership of Shift Operations & Equipment Reliability
Complex Troubleshooting & Root-Cause Analysis
Integration of Predictive Maintenance into Daily Workflows
Mentorship & Skill Development of Plant Personnel
Safety Culture & Regulatory Compliance
Process Optimization & Energy Efficiency
Data-Driven Performance Monitoring & Reporting
High school diploma or technical certification; associate’s degree or equivalent in Mechanical Technology, Industrial Operations, or related field preferred.
5+ years of hands-on plant operator experience in a continuous process environment.
Proven expertise with DCS/SCADA systems, control loops, and mechanical instrumentation.
Demonstrated leadership in shift operations and mechanical troubleshooting.
Exceptional mechanical aptitude and analytical troubleshooting skills
Strong leadership, coaching, and communication abilities
Proficiency with CMMS platforms and data-analysis tools
In-depth understanding of process controls and instrumentation
Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement