EI&C Technician

Cogentrix Energy LLC, a recognized leader in the independent power industry and currently focusing on the development of renewable and other low-emission generating resources, is seeking qualified candidates for an EI&C Technician position at our solar energy facility in Alamosa, Colorado.

The Alamosa project will be a high concentrating photovoltaic (HCPV) energy facility. Solar trackers consist of an HCPV solar cell panel assembly mounted on a support column. A hydraulic system is used to rotate and tilt the solar panel assembly throughout the day so the surface of the solar panel always maintains an optimal angle with respect to the sun. The Projects DC output power is inverted to AC power and then stepped-up to the required distribution voltage level.

Position Overview:

The person holding this position will inspect, test, troubleshoot, service, repair, calibrate, and install pneumatic, hydraulic, and/or electronic control instruments and equipment. This person will locate causes of defective performance of instruments, report findings, and replace component parts as required. He/She will perform preventive maintenance and may train and guide less experienced technicians.

Responsibilities:

• Perform corrective, preventive, predictive and emergency maintenance coordinating work with other departments.
• Assist in developing and improving the facility's preventive and predictive maintenance programs.
• Calibrate, test, maintain, troubleshoot and install power plant instrumentation, control systems and electrical systems. This includes but is not limited to- valves, drives, motors, chargers, inverters, transmitters, analyzers, breakers, transformers and shop calibration equipment.
• Understand and utilize the computerized maintenance management system for the plant to input and retrieve job-related information.
• Implement safe working practices, identify hazards immediately and recommend and/or implement repair.
• Coordinate and supervise outside contractors during maintenance activities, as required.
• Understand and comply with all company safety and environmental regulations, including safe work practices as described in company manuals.
• Perform other assigned collateral duties.

Qualifications:

• Good communication skills both written and verbal; ability to communicate, read and write effectively in English with a vocational, technical, or high school diploma. A 2 year degree in electronics preferred.
• 5 years of experience in power plant or heavy industrial instrumentation and/or electrical field.
• PLC system experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of the Instrument Technicians and the Electricians trade as well as knowledge of the power plant environment, safety and electrical hazards and working knowledge of other maintenance disciplines.
• Ability to deal effectively with other employees, outside contractors and vendors.
• Ability to use most common computer programs such as Access, Excel, Word, etc.
• Knowledge, skill and hands-on troubleshooting and repair experience relating to electrical systems used in modern power stations, including 13.8kV switchgear and motors, 4160-volt switchgear and motors, 480-volt motors and control centers, transformers, system batteries, inverters and chargers, and other electrical equipment as required.
• Ability to work scheduled and unscheduled overtime and respond to off-hour call ins when contacted by phone. Ability to work a flexible schedule.
• Demonstrated ability in reading P&IDs, electrical schematics, one-line and logic diagrams.
• Ability to work at various heights from ladders and scaffolding.
• Occasional work with chemicals including but not limited to acids, caustic, and solvents.
• Ability to climb ladders or stairs and remain standing for prolonged periods.