As a Shift Operator at Fervo Energy’s Cape Station Geothermal Power Plant and Brine Gathering System, you will play a critical role in the daily operation of one of the most innovative renewable energy projects in the world. Working as part of a highly skilled plant operations team, you will be responsible for safely operating and monitoring plant and brine gathering systems to ensure reliable, efficient, and continuous power generation. This is a hands-on, field-based role that involves real-time decision-making, troubleshooting complex systems, and maintaining operational excellence in a dynamic, high-tech environment. Shift Operators will report to the Plant Manager.
This position requires working a rotating shift schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime, as part of our 24/7 operations model. Ideal candidates are mechanically inclined, safety-focused, and eager to contribute to the future of clean energy through geothermal innovation.
Responsibilities
- Operational Control: Operate and monitor plant and gathering equipment including turbines, pumps, separators, heat exchangers, generators, valves, strainers, and automation systems (SCADA/DCS). Start, stop, and regulate equipment as necessary to meet operational targets and ensure grid compliance.
- Routine Monitoring & Inspection: Conduct regular walkdowns of the plant and gathering system to identify abnormal conditions (leaks, vibrations, noise, etc.) and perform basic troubleshooting. Maintain accurate shift logs, checklists, and operational data.
- Emergency Response: Respond to alarms and system upsets according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Take corrective action independently or in coordination with maintenance and engineering teams.
- Communication & Handover: Provide detailed shift handover briefings to incoming crews. Maintain communication with the Control Room, Supervisors, and support teams throughout the shift.
- Maintenance Support: Support maintenance teams during planned and unplanned outages by preparing equipment and piping systems for safe access (e.g., lock-out/tag-out, line draining). Report equipment malfunctions and assist in minor field-level corrective actions.
- Environmental & Safety Compliance: Follow all safety protocols including personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, hazard identification, and reporting. Ensure environmental compliance in accordance with air, water, and geothermal fluid handling regulations.
- Data Collection & Reporting: Record readings, prepare reports on production, equipment status, and anomalies. Utilize computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to enter data and create work requests.
Qualifications
- Education & Experience: High school diploma or GED required; technical or trade school training in power plant operations, industrial systems, or mechanical/electrical fields preferred. Minimum 2 years of experience in industrial operations, power generation, or similar field.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with thermal or geothermal power generation processes strongly preferred. Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, SOPs, equipment manuals, and process control systems. Basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation systems.
- Certifications (Preferred): OSHA 10 or 30, CPR/First Aid, confined space entry, or similar certifications.
- Work Schedule Requirements: Ability to work a rotating shift schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed to support 24/7 operations. Must be able to respond to emergency call-outs and plant contingencies outside of normal working hours.
- Physical Requirements: Capable of climbing ladders, working at heights, lifting up to 50 lbs, and performing duties in adverse weather or high-temperature conditions.
- Other Attributes: Strong attention to detail, excellent situational awareness, and a safety-first mindset. Team-oriented with good communication and troubleshooting skills.
Location
This position is based at Cape Station, Fervo Energy’s state-of-the-art geothermal power plant located in southwestern Utah. The site operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is staffed around the clock to ensure continuous, reliable power generation. This role requires working on a rotating shift schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime, to support round-the-clock plant operations. Minimal travel is required for this position.
