SPC Condition Based Maintenance Technician (“CBM”)

JOB SUMMARY

This position is a staff role within Southern Power Generation Support. The position may be filled at an Exempt Level 4, 5, or 6, depending on the selected candidate’s experience, knowledge, training, certification, and education.

The role supports Southern Power’s generating facilities through predictive maintenance practices such as vibration monitoring, motor signature analysis, infrared, and thermography to help prevent and predict potential failures. Southern Power operates 53 facilities across 14 states with a combined generating capacity of more than 12,490 MW (Megawatt) from solar, wind, storage, and natural gas sources. Personnel are based in Alabama, California, Georgia, Kansas, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas, and Washington, with expanding opportunities for placement in additional locations.

This role may require up to 75% travel, including air travel. The candidate must be able to drive to remote locations, and in some cases, travel to a generation site will take more than an 8-hour day, with on-site analysis potentially lasting multiple days.

The primary location for this role is at the Southern Power Corporate headquarters in Birmingham, AL, with an option for a secondary location at a Southern Power Generation facility. The selected individual will be part of a team responsible for the self-directed CBM program supporting SPC’s gas and renewable fleet. This team has significant experience operating and maintaining equipment and supports all facilities through on-site analysis. Additionally, this individual will generate reports and communicate findings back to the plants using specific computer software for analysis and completing MAXIMO work orders with meters and logs.

We are seeking a safety-oriented individual with a customer-support mindset and proactive attitude. The ideal candidate should be a problem solver capable of understanding the priorities of our generating plants beyond assigned tasks and should aim to improve processes and streamline work. Preferred qualifications include knowledge and experience with electrical and/or mechanical systems, as well as experience in construction, commissioning, manufacturing, operations, or maintenance.

This position is responsible for providing technical direction and philosophy throughout SPC for condition-based maintenance technologies in their area of expertise (e.g., vibration, infrared, lubrication, motor diagnostics). The incumbent provides strategic direction for equipment condition assessments and makes related maintenance and operational recommendations. Recognized as a technical expert in one or more areas of expertise and the overall CBM process, the incumbent will closely communicate with plants, leadership, operating review boards, and support teams to share best practices, address issues, and ensure consistency across Southern Power. The incumbent is also expected to support multiple plants and facilitate knowledge transfer in applicable CBM technologies and processes to plant personnel.

 JOB REQUIREMENTS

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or substantial formal experience and expertise in CBM, Machinery Diagnostics, or Data Analytics is preferred. Significant consideration will be given to candidates with experience in Engineering, Maintenance, or Operations within a power plant or other manufacturing facility. Experience with data acquisition and analysis systems is also preferred.
• Candidates should possess strong teamwork skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of individuals across various organizational levels. Experience in multiple CBM technology areas is desired. The ability to continuously learn and stay current with technological advancements, coupled with an interest in process improvement, is essential.
• The role requires experience in integrating all relevant information to make informed recommendations on equipment maintenance and operations. Candidates must be capable of organizing and managing multiple projects simultaneously, have proven planning abilities, and be able to prioritize urgent issues over those that can be addressed later.
• A self-starter who can work independently is highly valuable. Exceptional technical writing, communication, facilitation, presentation, and organization skills are preferred. Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is desired.
• Certifications in vibration analysis (e.g., Vibration Analyst Category I or II) and infrared thermography (e.g., Level I or Level II) are advantageous. Additionally, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification for drone operation is a plus.
• Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and reporting abilities, and proficiency in condition monitoring software and/or data analysis tools, such as MAXIMO. 
• The position involves frequent and extensive air and car travel throughout the country. It requires extensive lifting, climbing ladders, and walking while carrying equipment (up to 30 lbs). (approximately 75% travel).

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support SRCM Maintenance Strategy with expert operational guidance.
• Monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot plant equipment on-site and remotely.
• Communicate findings and recommendations across all levels of the organization.
• Engage in industry groups to enhance Southern Power’s CBM and Diagnostic processes.
• Manage and maintain budgets for system expenditures and prioritize recommendations.
• Stay updated on current technologies.
• Support and provide input and expertise for Southern Power's equipment condition assessment technology strategy.
• Ensure consistency in expertise across supported plants.
• Supporting the Plant Management Team, System Owners, and M&D Analysts to resolve equipment and process issues through CBM testing and data analysis. Coordinate with plants on testing, operations, repairs, replacements, modifications, improvements, and schedules.
• Communicating findings and recommendations to all organizational levels.
• Participating in internal and industry groups to enhance Southern Power’s CBM and Diagnostic processes.
• Providing training and knowledge transfer to improve CBM diagnostics across the fleet.
• Operate company vehicles and equipment safely.
• Work over 8 hours per day when necessary.
• Wear personal protective equipment as required.
• Meet physical demands for accessing equipment and adhering to safety protocols.
• This position is safety sensitive.