Just as the appearance of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant has changed over the last few years, so has the makeup of the project’s workforce.
As construction moves toward completion, efforts are focusing more intently upon systemization and then on to operations. This means different skill sets are required and training will shift from construction topics to operational ones. A wide range of positions will be necessary, from munitions handlers to maintenance personnel, administrative assistants to automation specialists, timekeeping personnel to technical writers. At peak staffing, the plant will have approximately 1,050 personnel.
Read on for brief descriptions of just a few of the many positions necessary to the Blue Grass project as it moves more fully into systemization. Also, meet some of the skilled personnel who populate these jobs.
Chemical Monitoring Technician (Felicia Wilson): operates and maintains highly specialized agent monitoring equipment for the protection of the workforce, surrounding community and the environment. This position is responsible for sample collection and analysis duties, as well as the testing and proper functioning of the equipment.
“This is a critical time in the project for us,” said Wilson. “We are preparing to take possession of the monitoring instruments in the plant and developing methods for their use during systemization and operations.”
Waste Management Shipping Specialist (Alyssa Frakes): responsible for the safe and environmentally compliant packaging, storage and shipping of all project-generated waste. This requires a thorough and comprehensive understanding of applicable state and federal regulations.
“Waste management is an always changing, never-ending learning process, and I love this,” said Frakes. “It’s an opportunity for continual learning and change – it sets me up well as we move into systemization and operations.”
Instrumentation and Electrical Maintenance Supervisor (Stephanie Jakus): assists superintendents in planning and coordinating instrumentation/electrical work orders, monitors work progress to ensure that work is performed safely and interprets designs, drawings and manuals in diagnosing electrical areas. Also provides leadership, coaching and mentoring to the team.
“The most important thing to me in the transition (from construction to systemization) is paying close attention to details,” said Jakus. “I encourage our employees to strongly focus on this. By taking care of the little things now, we avoid issues later.”
For information on open positions at the Blue Grass project, visit http://bechtelparsonsbgcapp.com/Employment.asp. From that website, job seekers can learn about employment opportunities by searching for “Richmond, Kentucky” jobs, on the website of each project employer: Bechtel, Parsons, AECOM (formerly URS), Battelle, GP Strategies and General Atomics. Check back often, as job openings are posted as they become available.
