Control Room Operator (CRO)

Position Purpose / Job Brief

• The Control Room Operator (CRO) is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable real-time operation of the gas-fired power plant. Leveraging SCADA and DCS platforms, the CRO ensures continuous plant operation within prescribed thermodynamic, electrical, and environmental limits while meeting contracted grid dispatch obligations.
• The role is the primary point of command authority during each shift.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Monitor all plant parameters in real-time via SCADA/DCS systems, identifying deviations and initiating corrective action in accordance with standing operating procedures (SOPs).
• Manage active load dispatch and plant output in coordination with the grid/system operator, maintaining frequency and voltage stability within statutory limits (±0.5 Hz / ±5% voltage).
• Initiate, coordinate, and authorise all plant startups, load changes, and controlled shutdowns in accordance with OEM-approved operating sequences.
• Review, issue, and cancel Permits to Work (PTW) in compliance with the plant's safe system of work, ensuring zero conflicting isolations.
• Optimize specific fuel consumption (SFC) and heat rate through real-time load distribution and engine performance tuning, reporting deviations exceeding ±3% against OEM benchmarks.
• Maintain accurate and timely shift logs, generation reports, alarm management records, and handover documentation.
• Coordinate with field/engine room operators, maintenance teams, and the HSE department during abnormal events and emergency response.
• Enforce compliance with all HSE regulations, plant procedures, Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO), PTW, and environmental operating limits.
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) investigations following trips, failures, and near-miss incidents.
• Support training, competency assessment, and mentoring of junior operators.

Academic & Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of five (5) years of hands-on experience in thermal power plant operations (gas, diesel, HFO, or combined-cycle).
• Demonstrated proficiency in SCADA and DCS operation (Siemens, ABB, Honeywell, or equivalent platforms).
• Sound knowledge of power system protection, synchronization procedures, and grid code compliance.
• Understanding of thermodynamic principles, combustion, and heat rate optimization applicable to reciprocating gas engines.
• Valid safety competency certifications (LOTO, PTW, HAZOP awareness) preferred.
• Membership of a relevant professional engineering body (e.g., COREN, NSE, IEEE) is an advantage.

Core Competency Profile:
Competency and Behavioural Descriptor:

• Technical Proficiency: Expert-level SCADA/DCS operation; power systems protection; engine thermodynamics.
• Crisis & Emergency Management: Calm, structured decision-making under abnormal plant conditions with clear escalation.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret complex data trends, identify root causes, and implement timely solutions.
• Communication & Coordination: Clear verbal and written communication with multi-disciplinary teams during high-pressure events.
• Attention to Detail: Rigorous monitoring of parameters, alarms, and logs to prevent minor deviations from escalating.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Ability to direct field operators and guide junior staff through standard and non-standard operations.

Application Closing Date
6th July, 2026.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

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