A colleague recently forwarded an article to me about careers in power (which I've reprinted here in part with permission from Yahoo! HotJobs). In her article, author Heather Boerner discusses several of the high-demand occupations in the power industry (engineers, operators, mechanics, trade workers), as well as their salary ranges and minimum requirements--most appropriate information for this blog. Here's her article, The New Power Jobs:
"White-hot jobs are opening up in the power sector. 'These aren't just hot jobs, they're sizzling jobs,' said Christine Real de Azua, spokeswoman for the American Wind Energy Association. Wind energy grew by 45 percent last year. 'We need every type of job candidate.'
Indeed, with oil topping $100 per barrel, expect power industry jobs to explode in the next 10 years -- and not just in petroleum or the electric company. Want to repair wind turbines, manage a nuclear reactor or install solar panels? The jobs await.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and energy leaders reveal what fields are expected to grow, and they are listed below with projected growth levels through 2016, salary data, and what you need to get a related job..." [read the remainder of the article here]
Showing posts with label powerplant. Show all posts
Showing posts with label powerplant. Show all posts
Tri-State Generation and Transmission
The Colorado ESSI group was honored to tour Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association's powerplant in Craig, Colorado on July 23, 2008. The following information was provided that may be helpful to you if you are considering a career in powerplants:"Today Tri-State G & T along with most organizations has generally found the same areas of concern when looking for people to fill positions. Getting skilled workers who want to work is a challenge in today’s workforce and finding affordable housing. Our youth are the key to our future and all of us must take the time to encourage youth to become successful as adults. Also providing retraining for adults may be another way to help with staffing. What may be successful for one person may not necessarily fit another person. That is why programs through schools, Workforce Centers, apprenticeship programs, trade schools, colleges and the military are essential to getting qualified workers into the field that best fits them and the company.
Tri-State Generation and Transmission is an electric utility company with operations throughout the Rocky Mountain Region. We hire laborers, craftspeople, technicians, engineers, accountants, and a host of other professions. Tri-State’s load growth is running about 4% per year. At this rate, we are trying to build an extensive infrastructure of generation and transmission facilities, and we’re constantly on the lookout for good employees with any number of backgrounds and skills. And, with the vast growth on the western slope due to increased oil and gas activity, we’re competing for employees in a large number of high-paying positions. Frankly, the future for our youth is looking remarkably bright.Tri-State hires Utility Workers and often promotes them within weeks of their hire. A Utility Worker’s base wage is around $40,000 per year but with overtime opportunities, these employees can earn up to $10,000 to $15,000 more a year with only basic utility-related job experience. The Utility Worker also has many promotional opportunities allowing them to earn even higher wages ($60,000 to $70,000) in our Scrubber Operator or Coal Handling Operator positions. But this unskilled worker can only go so far and cannot meet the needs of our skilled positions without either prior knowledge in skilled areas or going through our company apprenticeship programs. On the other end of the spectrum are four-year college students who usually begin their careers in white collar jobs. This leaves a large and expanding gap for employees with craft and technical skills. The shortage of skilled craft persons (I&C Technicians, Electricians, Welders, Boilermakers, Pipefitters, Millwrights, Mechanics) is so grave that these craft persons are able to pick and choose their jobs. They may start a job at the plant but as soon as a better job comes along, they drag up in the middle of the job to follow the money or a less-remote location.
The military may also be an answer to obtaining skilled positions. One option may be to have Workforce Centers directly communicating with military personnel who are retiring from the military but seeking employment in the private sector. This connection with the Workforce Centers could bond the recruitment of skilled workers to employers who are in need of the various skilled military personnel. Tri-State has directly benefited from military personnel as they have applicable skills that can be transferred to our plant operations.
Even though Tri-State hires most of its workforce at the entry level position of Utility Worker, there are still requirements that must be met. Applicants must pass a basic 8th grade level math test, a 10th grade level reading test and a mechanical comprehension test before being considered for an interview. It is interesting that a lot of people do not pass these tests. Our youth need to understand the importance of taking these basic classes seriously in high school so they do not lose out on these job opportunities. If they are not made aware of the problem and do not work diligently to correct the deficient areas, they will continue to struggle. Our students should take classes in high school to ensure they have the proper skills to succeed. Basic skills such as reading, math, writing and spelling are lacking in the workforce. Teachers can do their part by recognizing and bringing to the forefront the problem with students who have difficulty spelling or communicating effectively so the student recognizes that he or she has a problem and can work on the skill prior to graduation.
Recently we had an applicant who graduated [from a technical school] as a mechanic. He was an excellent candidate for the job, however, when we reviewed his written test he had misspelled words so badly we could not understand what he was trying to communicate to us. Needless to say we did not hire him.It is essential that employees are able to communicate effectively in writing. It also means having the ability to communicate verbally (with co-workers and supervisors). Soft Skills are also essential to the success of an employee. This includes initiative, self-motivation, reliability (being to work on time), and the ability to get along with others and work as a team. It also includes being a safe worker, drug free and having a good attitude. While these skills are not taught in high school, they can be learned. Students who are late for class and assignments, students who do the minimum to get by, and students who question authority for no good reason need to be told that, with each act of resistance and disobedience, they are building the habits that will put them at the bottom of the job pool.
Many youth today believe they should just start at the top of the company. However, they should not expect to be at the top now; in fact it is detrimental to them. They need to start at the bottom of a company, learn the systems and work hard so that when they are promoted they understand the business from the ground up. They will be more successful because they not only have the education but will have the knowledge of the business as well.As leaders for our youth, help students understand the importance of basic skills such as reading, math, writing, and general communication. Learning and retaining these skills throughout the school years will assist them on their future endeavors with school and employment. Support youth by encouraging them to work and to work hard. Work experience is a great way for them to determine what their interests are so they can go on to a school or trade that fits their needs. Help them understand that “attitude” really is everything. Not everyone is meant for college. Trade schools or apprenticeship programs may be a better fit. The most important thing for our youth is that they enjoy the work they are doing so they will find satisfaction and fulfillment in life and become long-term, valued employees."
Xcel Energy Jobs
Jobseekers looking for entry-level positions in the electrical generation industry could consider a couple of positions at Xcel Energy: Plant Specialist C (in the Energy Supply Department) and Utilityworker C (in the Utility Service Department).
These two entry level positions offer excellent opportunities for those with the right skills & competencies, positive work attitudes, and excellent work ethics, to learn new skills while receiving good pay (starting pay is about $17 per hour, plus benefits). To see a list of specific skills/competencies, work attitudes, and work ethics, refer to this pdf poster.
Here is some information about the Plant Specialist C, to give you a general idea of what this job entails:
Position Summary:
- Performs general housekeeping and custodial functions as assigned.
- Performs outdoor yard and grounds maintenance, including lawn care, weed control, general cleanup and trash removal, snow and ice removal etc.
- Stocks various cabinets, dispensers, etc with materials and supplies as required. Performs painting of plant facilities and equipment as assigned.
- Assists with general facility maintenance and operations as assigned.
- Actively participates in hands-on training, required classroom training, and computerbased training programs, as directed by plant management.
Environmental Exposure:
- Works in and around: energized and /or rotating equipment, confined spaces, heights, ladders and scaffolding, noise levels requiring hearing protection, presence of fumes and dust requiring use of respiratory protection.
- Floors are concrete.
- Outdoor work is often on natural mountain terrain, gravel, and wet uneven surfaces, with temperatures ranging from -20 to above 100 degrees F, and altitudes from 6000 to 11,200 feet above sea level.
- Work will include rotating shifts, weekends and holidays and requires overtime.
Minimum Requirements:
1) High school diploma or GED.
2) Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams or be a grandfathered employee.
3) Able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
4) Must have valid driver’s license.
5) Actively participate in hands-on training, required classroom training and computer interactive training programs, as directed by plant management.
6) Work in inclement weather.
7) Respirator qualification.
8) Will be required to perform duties when necessary from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces.
9) Must be able to work overtime as required.
10) Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test, security clearance and other exams that are required by federal regulations, such as OSHA and DOT, will be performed.
11) Selection criteria may include testing and/or assessment.
Career advancement opportunities are limitless for employees who prove themselves worthy. To see the career progression ladder for each of these positions, open this report from CAEL and go to pages 45 and 46.
You cannot apply for these position until you have successfully passed Xcel Energy's pre-employment tests. The tests are only open when there is a need. You need to monitor Xcel's employment website to determine if/when testing is open, then apply online to take the test. The tests are listed along with all of the other job notices and are called "PSCo Entry Level Power Plant Exam" and "Entry Level Field Ops Exam ".
These two entry level positions offer excellent opportunities for those with the right skills & competencies, positive work attitudes, and excellent work ethics, to learn new skills while receiving good pay (starting pay is about $17 per hour, plus benefits). To see a list of specific skills/competencies, work attitudes, and work ethics, refer to this pdf poster.
Here is some information about the Plant Specialist C, to give you a general idea of what this job entails:
Position Summary:
- Performs general housekeeping and custodial functions as assigned.
- Performs outdoor yard and grounds maintenance, including lawn care, weed control, general cleanup and trash removal, snow and ice removal etc.
- Stocks various cabinets, dispensers, etc with materials and supplies as required. Performs painting of plant facilities and equipment as assigned.
- Assists with general facility maintenance and operations as assigned.
- Actively participates in hands-on training, required classroom training, and computerbased training programs, as directed by plant management.
Environmental Exposure:
- Works in and around: energized and /or rotating equipment, confined spaces, heights, ladders and scaffolding, noise levels requiring hearing protection, presence of fumes and dust requiring use of respiratory protection.
- Floors are concrete.
- Outdoor work is often on natural mountain terrain, gravel, and wet uneven surfaces, with temperatures ranging from -20 to above 100 degrees F, and altitudes from 6000 to 11,200 feet above sea level.
- Work will include rotating shifts, weekends and holidays and requires overtime.
Minimum Requirements:
1) High school diploma or GED.
2) Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams or be a grandfathered employee.
3) Able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
4) Must have valid driver’s license.
5) Actively participate in hands-on training, required classroom training and computer interactive training programs, as directed by plant management.
6) Work in inclement weather.
7) Respirator qualification.
8) Will be required to perform duties when necessary from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces.
9) Must be able to work overtime as required.
10) Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test, security clearance and other exams that are required by federal regulations, such as OSHA and DOT, will be performed.
11) Selection criteria may include testing and/or assessment.
Career advancement opportunities are limitless for employees who prove themselves worthy. To see the career progression ladder for each of these positions, open this report from CAEL and go to pages 45 and 46.
You cannot apply for these position until you have successfully passed Xcel Energy's pre-employment tests. The tests are only open when there is a need. You need to monitor Xcel's employment website to determine if/when testing is open, then apply online to take the test. The tests are listed along with all of the other job notices and are called "PSCo Entry Level Power Plant Exam" and "Entry Level Field Ops Exam ".
After applying to take the test, be sure to check your e-mail inbox often (even your "junk" email folder) for a schedule confirmation and testing information.
These tests may be harder than you think! Very few people who take them pass them. Therefore it is HIGHLY recommended that you study in advance.
These tests assess your math ability, reading comprehension, critical thinking, and mechanical aptitude. Sample tests and study guide recommendations are available on Xcel Energy's website. Other methods of test preparation include free CRC-Applied Technology assessments that are similar to these pre-employment tests--and offer training software to help you with any questions you may have missed. Several workforce centers, including Denver's Training & Assessment Center at Speer, administer this free CRC-Applied Technology assessment.
Several weeks after taking the test, you will be notified (likely by e-mail again) of your scores. If you successfully pass the test, then you will need to monitor Xcel Energy's employment website to find out if/when the positions are available and apply online. Be sure to spell check your application, polish your resume, research Xcel Energy, and learn as much as you can about powerplants, to make the best impression possible!
If you don't pass these tests and have difficulty with the CRC-Applied Technology assessment, you may want to consider enrolling in courses to gain a better understanding of the knowledge and skills required to work in this industry. Red Rocks Community College is one of many educational institutions that offer training in Industrial Technology. Watch their 7-minute YouTube video below, or at this link:
These tests may be harder than you think! Very few people who take them pass them. Therefore it is HIGHLY recommended that you study in advance.
These tests assess your math ability, reading comprehension, critical thinking, and mechanical aptitude. Sample tests and study guide recommendations are available on Xcel Energy's website. Other methods of test preparation include free CRC-Applied Technology assessments that are similar to these pre-employment tests--and offer training software to help you with any questions you may have missed. Several workforce centers, including Denver's Training & Assessment Center at Speer, administer this free CRC-Applied Technology assessment.
Several weeks after taking the test, you will be notified (likely by e-mail again) of your scores. If you successfully pass the test, then you will need to monitor Xcel Energy's employment website to find out if/when the positions are available and apply online. Be sure to spell check your application, polish your resume, research Xcel Energy, and learn as much as you can about powerplants, to make the best impression possible!
If you don't pass these tests and have difficulty with the CRC-Applied Technology assessment, you may want to consider enrolling in courses to gain a better understanding of the knowledge and skills required to work in this industry. Red Rocks Community College is one of many educational institutions that offer training in Industrial Technology. Watch their 7-minute YouTube video below, or at this link:
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