CSU Operations Lead

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Project Overview:

The rapid growth of AI and digitalization is fueling unprecedented demand for data centers that require large, reliable sources of energy. In response to this market trend, the Renewables & Clean Power (R&CP) team have signed an early works contract to build one of the largest gas fired power generation facilities in the U.S. This project is of significant scale and complexity, and our team is helping the customer progress early-stage development, that would lead to the start of full EPC delivery this year.

The candidate will act as the CSU Ops Lead on the upcoming project. The candidate may start in the home office in Reston, VA, as single status, to support preconstruction planning, ahead of project mobilization to the field when the candidate will locate on a long-term assignment to Cheyenne, Wyoming. This position is contingent upon project award.

Job Summary:

The CSU Operations Lead will be responsible for the startup and initial operations for all permanent plant equipment and systems from Pre-Commissioning completion until Substantial Completion and handover to the Customer. The role provides day to day direction to ensure safe and reliable operation of the equipment within equipment design parameters, introduction of fuel, and ramp up to prepare for power production and plant performance testing. 

This position reports to and takes day to day direction from the Project Commissioning & Startup Manager to plan the initial operations of systems to support the completion of the project. #LI-VB1 

Major Responsibilities:

• Assists in preparation of project estimates.
• Active leadership in the safety program; ensuring both process safety and personal safety, as well as ensuring the highest environmental and health standards on the jobsite.
• Active leadership in the Quality program. Target zero punch-lists to avoid downstream impacts. 
• Coordinates the technical input and support of the teams on-site, including supporting commissioning and operations teams.
• Management of the performance testing and commissioning demonstration tests, including planning all tests to conform with the requirement of the prime contract.
• Coordinates any equipment maintenance and/or operational issues that may require project support, such as the provision of engineers for tuning and configuration/graphics changes required.
• Participates in HAZOP, HAZID and 3D Model reviews. 
• Performs performance reviews for direct reports and ensures they receive appropriate technical assistance and on-the-job training for their professional development.
• Prepares operations procedures, manuals and plans, and documents all aspects of operations including all necessary materials, personnel, and vendor support as required by the project scope of work. 
• Develops, coordinates, and implements approved and budgeted training, and development programs, including on the job training as well as on-site and off-site courses and programs.
• Develops or obtains training manuals and instructional aids and materials as required.
• Develops tranche-based and integrated startup philosophies for combined cycle and simple cycle power blocks.
• Develops training program for the customer operations team aligned with Bechtel’s scope of work.
• Reviews P&IDs and electrical single line diagrams to define system startup sequencing and electrical isolation methods.
• Works closely with major equipment vendor technical advisors to establish startup and commissioning procedures.
• Collaborates with the engineering team to identify operating requirements and thresholds to ensure equipment reliability and operational conformance during commissioning.
• Manages a team of operations professionals to ensure safe, reliable startup and commissioning from the control room.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Requires bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) and 10-13  years of relevant experience or 14-17 years of relevant work experience

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Relevant experience in delivering large-scale combined cycle power projects.
• Proficient in interpreting DCS logic to support troubleshooting during commissioning activities.
• Knowledge and experience with commissioning behind the meter power generation is preferred. Integration of power facilities in a data center environment is preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of administrative practices including cost and scheduling. 
• Ability to work effectively in leading in a team environment, motivating and supporting others.
• Demonstrated expert understanding of CSU core processes and procedures.
• Technical and practical comprehension of engineering, procurement, and construction functions and general business techniques.
• Excellent skill in oral and written communication with demonstrated skill to present CSU information to management and client.
• Extensive work experience in Commissioning, startup and operations fields, specifically all aspects of field and control room operation, shift supervision, and development of operational philosophies and processes to ensure safe, and reliable plant operations.
• Ability to make day-to-day decisions that directly affect project management improvements within assigned area or project and making recommendations to senior management regarding policy and procedure.
• Knowledge & previous experience in PTW and LOTO procedures & practices.
• Experience and demonstrated ability to deliver training courses using classroom techniques and standard or improvised teaching aids.

Total Rewards/Benefits:

For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive.  Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards

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