Material Specialist - Oak Grove Plant

As a Material Specialist at the Oak Grove Plant, you'll be tasked with the safe operation and maintenance of fuel and ash handling equipment. Your duties include monitoring equipment temperatures, pressure, and flow, alongside performing basic mechanical and electrical maintenance. Additionally, you will use various tools while working outdoors in different weather conditions. Emphasizing safety, you will also be trained as part of the fire brigade and will need to comply with the Safety Handbook.

To apply for the Material Specialist role at Vistra's Oak Grove Plant, a high school diploma or GED equivalent is required. Preferred qualifications include demonstrated power plant skills and experience, good math and communication skills, and experience operating mobile equipment like forklifts. Successful candidates must also complete the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance exams administered by Human Resources.

As a Material Specialist at Vistra’s Oak Grove Plant, expect a physically demanding work environment that involves both outdoor and indoor tasks. You will be working in all types of weather conditions and may need to perform manual labor. However, this dynamic setting allows for an engaging work experience, surrounded by dedicated colleagues focused on teamwork and safety.

Material Specialists at Oak Grove Plant will earn a competitive wage of $30.27 per hour. This position may involve a rotating shift schedule of 12 hours, which is typical in power plant operations. Opportunities for overtime may also be available, allowing for potential increased earnings.

Upon joining Vistra as a Material Specialist at the Oak Grove Plant, you will undergo comprehensive training to equip you with the necessary skills for the role. This process includes training in safety protocols, fire brigade functions, and operational maintenance skills specific to the power plant equipment you'll be working with. Continuous learning is encouraged to enhance your performance and career growth.

When answering this question, detail your previous experience with specific equipment, such as conveyors and dewatering belts. Discuss any hands-on work you've done related to mechanical or electrical maintenance, emphasizing your ability to monitor and troubleshoot equipment effectively.

In your response, highlight your understanding of safety protocols and how you've applied them in past roles. Mention specific safety practices you follow, such as regular equipment checks and adherence to safety guidelines, to ensure a safe working environment.

Provide a specific example that showcases your problem-solving skills. Discuss the challenge, the steps you took to address it, and the outcome. Focus on your ability to stay calm under pressure and collaborate with team members where necessary.

Express your admiration for Vistra's commitment to customer expectations and teamwork. Discuss how the company’s values align with your own and how your skills make you a good fit for their dynamic work environment focused on safety and effective communication.

Mention the tools you have experience with, such as hand tools, power tools, and specific equipment relevant to power plant operations like forklifts. Highlight any training or certifications you have with these tools, emphasizing your practical experience.

Discuss your basic computer skills and familiarity with software used for monitoring equipment and reporting issues. Provide examples of how you've used computer systems in the past to improve operational efficiency or maintain accurate records.

In your answer, convey your resilience and adaptability to different weather conditions. Provide examples where you successfully managed outdoor tasks in challenging weather, highlighting your commitment to completing your responsibilities safely and effectively.

Explain your approach to communication, emphasizing the importance of clarity and regular updates with your team. Share examples of how you've fostered collaboration in past roles, ensuring everyone is informed and aligned with safety practices.

Affirm your readiness for the physical nature of the position. Discuss any previous roles that required similar physical exertion, along with your commitment to maintaining good physical fitness to meet job expectations.

Demonstrate your growth mindset by discussing your eagerness to learn and adapt. Provide examples of how you have pursued training opportunities or self-study to enhance your skills, particularly related to the fast-paced energy sector.