Lalith Watawala

Experience

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  Techcomm

  Jan 2004 - Jan 2005

  Senior Shift Operator / Maintainer (Biomass Power Station)

  This role extended upon my detailed knowledge of commissioning, operation and maintenance of boiler, turbine, fuel & ash handling systems, and water treatment systems (RO plant, softeners, micro filtration) using Yokagawa DCS & controls

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  Energy Developments Limited

  Oct 2005 - Jan 2008

  Operation Technician

  Cannington Mine Power Station / Karumba Power Station / Karratha LNG plantI played an integral role in commissioning LNG plant for WA Bunbury Gasline, and the operation & maintenance of solar gas turbines & 27 Caterpillar 3520, 3516 gas engines for the power plant & LNG plant

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  Rio Tinto

  Feb 2008 - Dec 2008

  Power Station Operator (Contract)

  Responsible for the operation & maintenance of 105MW natural gas fired power plant consisting of 3 x 35 MW Toshiba steam turbo generators supplied with steam from 3 x ICAL tangentially fired boilers. • Operated gas fired power station, ensuring plant & equipment operated at optimal efficiency for reliable power supply to Rio Tinto iron ore plant & equipment, and other customers in remote area. • Identified, investigated and resolved equipment faults and minor maintenance activities to maintain plant capabilities, isolating equipment and issuing PTW Show less

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  Origin Energy

  Jan 2009 - Nov 2015

  Production Senior Plant Technician

  In charge of the control room operations and maintenance of the 650MW combine cycle power plant and BOP equipment, I ensured supply of sustained power to the grid in (start-up and shut-down of power station) and was integral in working with GE commissioning engineers, and writing SOP & operational readiness systems.• Took ownership and built expertise in shift electronic Pas electronic PTW system, and fault finding using PI and Mark VIe • Worked collaboratively with Plant Chemist to develop VSD System for start-up of the plant and demine water system project• Ensured the plant and equipment operated as efficiently as possible ensure optimal income generated for the company• Liaised with Origin Trades regarding load availability for the day & the availability of gas for the day• Carried out equipment fault investigation and minor maintenance activities to maintain plant capabilities• Maintained open and honest lines of communication with internal and external stakeholders including site staff, security, energy traders as well as HSE and other business units Show less

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  Newcrest Mining

  Dec 2015 - Jun 2020

  Power Station Operations Coordinator - Power & Utilities

  This is a dual role managing one Senior Supervisor, one Supervisor and ten operators (consisting of Australian FIFO workers and PNG Nationals), and supervising shift operations of 2 x 75MW diesel power stations (Wartsila W20V32 & W18V32 engines / 50MW Geo thermal power station).• Operated 3 power plants, including boilers, water treatment plant and incinerators, achieving required load capacity ( >85% efficiency) each day, and decreasing fuel consumption• Undertook case study for improvement to sludge management system using existing incinerators, achieving 100% improved efficiency • Responsible for shift handover and end of roster handover; safety and toolbox meetings; site safety inspections, audits and emergency exercises and roster management• Successfully and strategically managed resources and equipment in response to required maintenance (isolating necessary equipment) using SAP and PTW system without interruption to production• Led equipment fault investigation using PI trending, ensuring plant and equipment was operating as efficiently as possible to ensure maximum production• Contributed to continuous improvement by communicating need for and influencing push toward automation, improving work operations and output; required influential communication to unify team • Supervised, mentored and developed team of operators and supervisors, identifying skills gaps and need for additional training; identified amongst team as a ‘go-to’ for PTW and DCS advice• Calmly co-ordinated site emergencies and resolved issues quickly; directed the close and investigation of boilers to avoid plant blackout in communication with production coordinators and electrical engineers Show less