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POSS

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Plant Operator Selection System (POSS): Used to help select employees for operator jobs in electric power plants (fossil, nuclear, and hydroelectric). Examples of jobs covered by POSS are power plant operator, control room operator, and nuclear reactor operator.

Plant Operator Selection System (POSS)
POSS is a set of test batteries that were developed and validated to aid in selecting power plant operators. POSS is the culmination of a large research program sponsored by the Edison Electric Institute and carried out by the Personnel Decisions Research Institute. A total of 70 investor-owned electric utility companies initially participated in the project. Research information was obtained and analyzed from thousands of company officials, supervisors, and plant operating personnel working in hundreds of plants. The result of this extensive research effort is a battery of paper-and-pencil tests that predict the likelihood of success in various power plant operator jobs.

POSS can be used to select candidates for operating jobs in fossil, nuclear, or hydro power plants. The tests take about two hours to administer. Components of the batteries measure how a candidate compares with others on a number of important aptitudes or abilities. Each POSS test battery consists of a number of aptitude tests.

The aptitude tests measure the cognitive abilities found to be important to successful job performance for plant operators. The aptitude tests are arranged in two alternate batteries which differ slightly in the test components and time required for administration.

Although the content of the aptitude batteries differs somewhat, both batteries have been found to be related to success in plant operations work. Some of the aptitude tests included in the battery are described below.

Reading Comprehension. This test measures a person's ability to read and understand the type of material found in power plant operator training and safety manuals. The Reading Comprehension test consists of five reading passages, each followed by several multiple-choice questions about the passage. The test has 36 items and a 30-minute time limit.

Mechanical Concepts. This test measures the ability to understand mechanical principles. There are 44 multiple-choice items. Each item contains a pictorial description of a mechanical situation, a question, and three possible answers. This test has a 20-minute time limit.

Mathematical Usage. There are two versions of this test. The short version measures candidates' skill in working with basic mathematical formulas based on information provided at the beginning of the test. This version of the test includes 18 questions and has a 7-minute time limit.
The longer version of the test measures skill in solving and manipulating mathematical relationships. There are three sections: formula conversion problems, algebra problems, and word problems. The total test contains 46 multiple-choice items and has a 17-minute time limit.

Spatial Ability. This test measures the ability to visualize the properly assembled form of an object. In this test, candidates are to assemble the parts so that the places having the same letter are put together. The test contains 20 multiple-choice items and has a 10-minute time limit.

Tables and Graphs. This test measures speed and accuracy in reading tables and graphs. Part I contains a table of numbers which is used to answer 60 multiple-choice items. It has a five-minute time limit. Part II contains a graph which is used to answer 24 multiple-choice items. It has a four-minute time limit.

Scoring and Interpretation:
A job candidate's answers to the POSS tests are scored and converted to an Aptitude Index ranging in value from zero to 15.

Candidates' standing on the Aptitude Index should be interpreted as a measure of their cognitive abilities that are important in plant operations work. Candidates with high Aptitude Index scores should be expected to understand mechanical principles, comprehend written materials including tables and graphs, use and understand mathematical relationships, and perceive details quickly and accurately.

The Aptitude Index provides a prediction of overall plant operations effectiveness. The Aptitude Index is used to determine the probability of success or failure in plant operations jobs; as such, it can differentiate between potentially effective candidates and those applicants less likely to succeed.

Federal regulations mandate that employment tests must be job-related. EEI’s employment test batteries are designed and validated for specific energy industry job families, including power plant operators, maintenance and craft positions, power dispatching positions, customer service representatives, and more.

EEI does not administer any of its employment tests directly to applicants. If you are interested in a position with an electric utility, please contact the utility directly for job and pre-employment testing information.

If you have previously taken an EEI employment test and are looking for your results, please understand that EEI does not provide results directly to applicants. If you have applied for a position with a utility company that requires an EEI test that you have already taken elsewhere, please be sure to notify the company to which you are applying.

Good study guides:

Master The Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations Test

ARCO Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations Tests

Arco Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations Tests, Fifth Edition

Barron's Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations Test


You can find EEI Practice Tests for CAST, POSS/MASS, SASS, TECH, SO/PD here.
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« Last Edit: Nov 02, 2013, 10:56 by Rennhack »

Atomic_Punk

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #1 on: Mar 30, 2005, 03:29 »
The book Nuclear NASCAR listed is the one I bought.  I passed the test, so it must be a half way
decent study guide.:D  Good luck.

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #2 on: Mar 30, 2005, 03:47 »
For what it's worth: TVA recommends using an ASVAB study guide. They are cheaper (perhaps even at the local library!)
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M1Ark

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #3 on: Apr 18, 2006, 01:58 »

I got my test date today.  Test on May 5th, 2006.  Then I hope to get the interview.  And, then transfer when able.  Or, SRO anywhere TVA.


Honeycomb,

If you're going for the EEI P.O.S.S. test then you must practice taking the test.  I have seen brialliant people fail this test.  Search this message board for POSS or P.O.S.S. for guidance.

There are 7-8 modules that are timed.  Some you'll finish some you will not.  Tips for success...

1. Make sure answers you give are correct.

2. You must have 11 correct answers per module (each utility picks a different number and 11 is the highest I've heard of.  I also heard 15 is the max score per module)

3. The last module is math conversions and you only have 7 minutes to get your 11 right answers.  A legend is provided but it'll help if you have some (all) of the conversions memorized.

4. There is a module on print reading (follow the line).  Use a straight edge like half of your scratch paper or break the pencil they gave you in half.

Items 3 and 4 are what gives most people trouble.  I'm not sure if TVA will give this exam but most (all?) utilities give it and is an INPO standard expectation.  If you fail any of the modules you probably won't make the interview list.  Also, I'm not sure how the scores change on selecting incorrect answers.  I've taken it twice and gave the same advice as above to others who have taken it and passed.  I made sure all answers I chose were correct.

Here's the practice exam...

http://www.progress-energy.com/aboutus/employment/eei/index.asp

« Last Edit: Apr 18, 2006, 02:01 by M1Ark »

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #4 on: Apr 18, 2006, 02:07 »

I'm not sure if TVA will give this exam but most (all?) utilities give it and is an INPO standard expectation.  If you fail any of the modules you probably won't make the interview list. 

You must pass the POSS, or you don't make the interview list. TVA sets a high passing score (realtively). The Progress or TVA link to practice exams are good advice.
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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #5 on: Apr 18, 2006, 02:13 »
Glad to help!
I believe I remember different sections were required for different jobs. Do well and everything is open......
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
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M1Ark

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #6 on: Apr 18, 2006, 02:47 »
You have to get 11 on ALL modules.  If you don't they won't tell you you failed they'll tell you qualify for a fossil gen plant or a maintenance position (MOSS).  I believe the POSS is the mac-daddy of them all.  Yes they're all essentially the same.  I passed the POSS in the early nineties before the internet and knew nothing of it and did not prep for it and took it cold.  I was shocked when right after lunch and after taking the POSS test they escorted 18 out of 30 ex-navy nuke candidates with varying experience (Retired enlisted, Officers, etc) out of the room we where in and drove them to the airport immediately and wished them luck in their job hunting.  That left 12 of us for the 6 open positions.  The plant I just described needed 11 correct answers per module.

I took the POSS test again in 2003 and the test was almost identical to the one I took a decade earlier.

Good luck, Honeycomb!

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #7 on: Apr 18, 2006, 03:58 »
Did St Lucie Require the POSS for an SRO Position?

In addition to the 11 questions you have to get right you also have to get a certain amount done in the section or it won't even be graded. That's why a lot of former Navy nukes fail. It seems anti ethical to a nuke to have to work quickly just for the sake of working quickly. When I took it in 1990 we had a guy from my nuke school class take it with us. He had a 3.75 in Nuke School and failed the test!.

So far as I know DTE used it as a Go No Go. I don't recall them telling anyone who failed that they were qualified for anything else based on POSS results. TVA sends the results to the examinee with what positions they are qualified for.

The POSS really isn't tough at all. In 1990 when I took it I had no idea I'd be taking any sort of exam. I thought I was there simply for an interview. They herded us into a room and told us we had some testing to do just to see where our aptitudes might lie, nothing was mentioned about it being a Go-No Go for the job. They put it in front of us, explained the rules and when I opened the test booklet I thought oh an ASVAB. When we interviewed for a class in 2003 (or was it late 2002) I went up to talk with one of the interviewers and we were giving the POSS using the exact same testing booklets.

I'd go to Bellefonte in a heartbeat. I did see on the TVA website we have a bid out for Lead Instructors at Bellefonte.

Mike
« Last Edit: Apr 18, 2006, 03:59 by Broadzilla »

M1Ark

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #8 on: Apr 18, 2006, 04:32 »
<Did St Lucie Require the POSS for an SRO Position?

NO

<So far as I know DTE used it as a Go No Go. I don't recall them telling anyone who failed <that they were qualified for anything else based on POSS results. TVA sends the results to <the examinee with what positions they are qualified for.

I wasn't talking about DTE.  One of our NLO's recently took the TVA POSS and was told he could retake it in a month but he only qualified for fossil gen.

<The POSS really isn't tough at all. In 1990 when I took it I had no idea I'd be taking any sort <of exam. I thought I was there simply for an interview. They herded us into a room and <told us we had some testing to do just to see where our aptitudes might lie, nothing was <mentioned about it being a Go-No Go for the job. They put it in front of us, explained the <rules and when I opened the test booklet I thought oh an ASVAB. When we interviewed for <a class in 2003 (or was it late 2002) I went up to talk with one of the interviewers and we <were giving the POSS using the exact same testing booklets.

DTE has only one POSS test and if you "fail" you can't take it again.  Hence you can never be an NLO there.

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #9 on: Apr 18, 2006, 05:05 »
Thanks,

I thought that smacked of TVA. I hadn't even heard of graduated POSS grading scales until I came here.

At one time DTE used to tell you that you could take the POSS again in 6 months but I never saw what good that did.

Mike

shayne

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #10 on: Apr 18, 2006, 08:39 »
I didn't think it was too bad.  I had taken a couple before.  My last experience, DTE, just about half of the ~20 people passed during the first interview cycle.  At that rate, I was a little nervous.  I found it was easy to go through quickly and answer the questions that I knew off the top of my head.  My second pass through required little more thought or figuring, then last pass was the more difficult questions or the ones that required lots of time to solve.  I do remember some of the graphs.  The second set of problems were easier than the first and didn't require as much time.
 

M1Ark

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #11 on: Apr 18, 2006, 09:36 »
Shayne,

Did you skip questions or do them out of order and not answer earlier questions?

shayne

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #12 on: Apr 19, 2006, 12:26 »
Yes I would look at the question, if I knew the answer I marked the score sheet.  If I got to a question that I thought I knew but it would take some time I would skip it.  If I came to a question that I just didn't know, skipped it also.  When I got through the questions, I would go back and start doing the questions that I knew but would take time.  Last I would try to make the best educated guess on the questions I had no idea on if time had not expired.

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #13 on: Apr 19, 2006, 07:09 »
Man I couldn't take a test in that fashion. I have to start at the beginning, work everything through in order and be done in 25 minutes or less. Skipping questions would drive me nuts!

Mike

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #14 on: Apr 19, 2006, 07:26 »
Man I couldn't take a test in that fashion. I have to start at the beginning, work everything through in order and be done in 25 minutes or less. Skipping questions would drive me nuts!

There are treatments available, but the first step is admitting you have a problem.  ;)

Seriously, you have to get a certain number right per section; the best way to do that is to answer the simple ones first...
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shayne

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #15 on: Apr 19, 2006, 09:51 »
I only have to pay more atttention to the score card to make sure I skip there too.  I usually can finish all the sections, except maybe the math.  Seems to have more questions than time or I'm rusty since I use calculators all the time.

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #16 on: May 06, 2006, 03:38 »
So do you want me to autograph your wings?  ;D

Congratulations. I have seen many go into the test cold and get KO'ed. Glad you took the advice, and I hope you don't have to find out about the difference in taking it another time.
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aturner

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #17 on: May 07, 2006, 02:30 »
Couldn't agree more.  The ASVAB I had two weeks to study with paid off well.  One thing that struck me was I didn't realize how time intensive the tests were.  Luckily I caught a message that it wouldnt be likely to finish every test.  This lowered my stress level quite a bit and helped me to concentrate more on being sure every answer I put down was correct.  Had I not known I would've been sweating it worse than I was already.

I finished the Reading Comp. for the same reasons as above also, becuase I knew some of the passages.  I also finished the Long-Math section.  I believe my minor in math paid off with all of the algebra i've done recently. 

I posed the question to the test administrator about guessing.  He caught my ear when he said if you could rule out a few answers then go ahead and guess.  The flip side he recommended was that if you couldn't rule out anything, it would be best not to guess.  He did say he had never been told to recommend/not recommend guessing.  I went with the safe side and made sure I had everything right I marked down.  Maybe a few left blank that I actually attempted, but that's it. 

I don't know what passing grades are for the various jobs, but I don't feel like I bombed anything.  Considering I got up 3:30 Friday morning from out here on the left coast and flew in to Nashville, drove to NE AL to see family and drive to Tuscumbia friday night, I don't feel too bad about it.  I wish we could actually get our scores, at least if something were bad, we could find out what to work on.  I guess only time will tell.

Adam

NucEng for Hire

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #18 on: May 08, 2006, 05:21 »
In the interest of memorizing conversions ahead of time, is the conversion table included in the EEI online sample POSS test representative of the one on recent actual tests?

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #19 on: Nov 13, 2006, 05:24 »
The POSS really isn't tough at all. In 1990 when I took it I had no idea I'd be taking any sort of exam. I thought I was there simply for an interview. They herded us into a room and told us we had some testing to do just to see where our aptitudes might lie, nothing was mentioned about it being a Go-No Go for the job. They put it in front of us, explained the rules and when I opened the test booklet I thought oh an ASVAB. When we interviewed for a class in 2003 (or was it late 2002) I went up to talk with one of the interviewers and we were giving the POSS using the exact same testing booklets.

Mike,

I was in the same boat as you. I was working in a non-nuclear job so I never heard of the POSS. They flew me here to interview for an NLO position and take some test.  I didn't know what to expect.  I thought they might be asking about the neutron lifecycle or something like that. When they handed out the results 3/4 of the room emptied out because they did not make it.

I never had to take a POSS for my SRO interview.

Doug

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #20 on: Nov 13, 2006, 02:18 »
I'm not sure anyone would make a candidate for an SRO Position take a POSS Test. In most cases the skill set is different and if they're interviewing you you've probably proven youself in some way in the industry. It wouldn't be a bad idea to give it to Engineering instants and candidates who are just getting out of the Navy. Then again, I don't believe the test has any validity whatsoever.

Mike

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #21 on: Nov 13, 2006, 03:29 »
"Then again, I don't believe the test has any validity whatsoever.

Mike"

After having finally taken the dreaded POSS for the first time I am now thinking I was worried about that?!?  Do'nt get me wrong I amnot saying I blew it away (after all for all I know I passed it by 1 point, and I guess I will probably never know) but it was neither hard or brain wracking, if you are slightly prepared!  The guys who say practice the ASVAB are, as with most of thier other advice, right on point!  The test requires you to sacrifice the "need" to answer every question, and makes you (IMHO) move on to questions you can answer quickly. 

Here are my tips (and hey what do I know, just trying to help others in thier cause!)
1. Reading is the easy section with lots of time feel free to read the passages fully then do questions.
2. Tables and Graphs, I would like to meet the man or woman who can truly finish that section!!  On mine there were  two columns each had different thing they wanted. Stay in one then move to others, this will minimize changing the way you are reading the table. I have talked to two others who "Passed" and they only finished the first col, and I got 2 bubbles into the second and passed, so just foucus on accuracy in getting the first done!
3. Assembly seemed to have drawing slightly harder than practice test, but not impossible. Just remember that they can be rotated after they are put together and some do have left or right perspective that will be different.
4. Mech Concepts if you are weak (did not almost ace practice) then you need to study an ASVAB book that explains these basic physicis concepts!! All I can say on this one is you get it or you do not!
5. Math Usage!  Ok on this one practice test was only half the picture.  To start with the conversion were about the same but there seemed to be a few more mulit-step ones (I skipped most of them for speeds sake). The big trick was the fact that there was an "algebra" (more like basic math that most middle schoolers can do) problem is if you get wrapped up in conversions the you are cheating yourself on lots of easy math points on algebra section.  Again in this section if you can not look at it/answer it in head then move on!! I skipped a few in the conversion section (mostly multi-step / obscure units ones) and some in the algebra section and still did not finish the section.  In fact once I turned the page and saw alg section I felt like I should have skipped more conversions in favor of more simple math!

Of course this advice comes with the disclaimer "USE AT YOUR OWN RISK" what worked for me may not for you, (my lawyer said I should say that often in life!! :P)
Good Luck! 
Being adept at being adaptable I look forward to every new challenge!

nearexnuke

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #22 on: Apr 14, 2007, 09:27 »
How can you take this test?  Is it only after applying to a plant?  Does each plant have there own or is there only one POSS test?

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #23 on: Apr 14, 2007, 09:40 »
How can you take this test?  Is it only after applying to a plant?  Does each plant have there own or is there only one POSS test?

The POSS test is given as part of pre-employment testing.  Usually the results aren't shared between plants as I understand it. 
"There is much pleasure to be gained from useless knowledge."

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Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #24 on: Apr 16, 2007, 11:07 »
So far as I know the results aren't shared. The best way to determine if results are shared is if you aren't required to sign a release for allowing shared results the odds are they won't be shared.

Also no utility wants to invest money to give an exam only to give the results to someone else.

Some utilities don't give the entire POSS. For example the version DTE gave is a watered down version of the one TVA gives. By watered down I mean shorter not less challenging!

Mike

nearexnuke

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #25 on: Apr 16, 2007, 06:54 »
So there isn't one standard test, each company has there own version?  Exactly how hard is this test, say compared to the practice tests out there?
« Last Edit: Apr 16, 2007, 06:56 by nearexnuke »

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #26 on: Apr 16, 2007, 10:19 »
So there isn't one standard test, each company has there own version?  Exactly how hard is this test, say compared to the practice tests out there?

How hard it is in comparison really depends on how well one takes a test.  I know this sounds like a smart aleck answer but it's true.  If someone tests well, that is doesn't get flustered by knowing that they're being timed or not finishing all of the questions, they usually can do well on the POSS if the knowledge is there.  Do a search for POSS here and you'll find a ton of useful information.
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shayne

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #27 on: Apr 18, 2007, 06:03 »
Most of the tests that I have taken were about the same in nature.  However, I have seen different sections given.  One section I had taken for the job at Fermi, I had never seen before. I think by watered down, DTE only gave a few sections of the exam.  I had taken many sections of the exam that were not part of the testing at DTE.

Ron32

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Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #28 on: Apr 25, 2007, 02:12 »
I've read some of these post and a lot people say you have to get 11 questions right to pass the test and that the wrong answers are taking away from the right answers. And I've also read somewhere that the range of the test was 5 to 15 with 15 being the highest you can score.  So what does getting 11 answers right get you, 5 or 15?

I know that on some test such as the Wonderlic Personnel test if a person scores too high some companies will considered a person over qualified, too brainy, etc, for a position. For instance the highest you can score on the Wonderlic is I think 50. But some companies have a range they like for example, 20 to 35 for certain occupations and if you and if you score above that range or below that range they want hire you for that job. 

I tested for an Auxiliary Operator position at Waterford 3 on Saturday 21, 2007. The test I took math section had 44 questions and 17 minutes.  I completed 28 of the math questions and I’m confident that most of them were right.  I finished the first section which was conversions and I was half way through the algebra section before time was called. The reading section was the easiest part to the test. The only parts of the test that I think I could have bombed were the mechanical concepts and assembly. I answered all the mechanical questions but if you subtract the wrong answers from the right answers I guess there is a chance that my net answers right could be less the 11.

Today I looked at the job applicant status on the internet and it said reject; reason being lacks other minimum qualifications.  :(

So I’m wandering do all companies use the same passing score. If 15 is the highest and you score 13 does that mean you fail. Or does scoring a 5 or higher mean you pass.  And do you think it’s possible to get to many questions right. If I take it again should I try to just make sure I get about 11 answers right in each section including the math or should I go full speed. I was disappointed and a little surprised to see a reject notice


« Last Edit: Apr 25, 2007, 03:39 by Ron32 »

Fermi2

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #29 on: Apr 25, 2007, 02:42 »
So far as I know they all use the same grading criteria for each individual section of the exam.

My advice, work fast. If you can't work fast and accurately you might not belong in this business. That's not to say you have to work fast all the time in this industry but sometimes accurate and quick decision making is required.

Mike

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #30 on: Apr 25, 2007, 10:12 »
Today I looked at the job applicant status on the internet and it said reject; reason being lacks other minimum qualifications.  :(

So I’m wandering do all companies use the same passing score. If 15 is the highest and you score 13 does that mean you fail.

Each utility can set there own passing grade. It sounds like they decided you didn't meet other criteria (perhaps they required a degree or equivalent, but then decided your "equivalent" experience was not adequate). I would think a call to Entergy would be appropriate to clarify why you were not determined to meet minimum qualifications. Otherwise, you won't know what to change before applying again.
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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #31 on: May 10, 2007, 01:07 »

After getting the notice on the internet, I contacted the human resource contact by email and asked for an explanation. She never did respond by email. But I did get a letter in the mail and it said based on your POSS test. You are Not Recommended.

Based on how I think I did on the test and based on the response I received from Entergy, I really do think that this test might have a low range and a high range. I could very well be wrong but I think the scale might be something similar to below. I think that 15 might the highest Aptitude Score but I think your Raw Score Average can be below or above 15 and the more your Raw Score deviates from 15, either way, the lower you aptitude becomes therefore reducing your suitability for the job.

In other words people who don’t get enough answers right will score low and people who get too many answers right will also score low. And that might be the reason why they put more questions on the test than most people can answer.

Does anybody agree or disagree? Like I said I’m just speculating.


Converted Aptitude Score
                        15                                  *******
                        14                                 ********
                        13                                *********           Highly Recommended
                        12                               **********
                        11                              ***********      
                        10                             ************
                         9                            *************         Recommended
                         8                           **************           
                         7                          ***************
                          6                       *****************     
                          5                      ******************     Not Recommended
                          4                    ********************   
                           3                 **********************
                           2               ************************
                           1           ***************************
Average                         
Raw Score      1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28           
 Too Low Raw Score  Avg.                < Good Range >                  Too High Raw Scores Avg.                 



Offline UncaBuffalo

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #32 on: May 10, 2007, 01:24 »
...and people who get too many answers right will also score low...

I would tend to doubt that most companies would mark you down for doing too well, although I could be convinced that a small portion might.

When I take any test, I always try to score as high as I can.  The only time I took the POSS, I studied hard for it, completed every section, was interviewed, and was offered the job.
« Last Edit: May 10, 2007, 01:27 by UncaBuffalo »
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Offline Roll Tide

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #33 on: May 10, 2007, 01:30 »
I aced the exam each time I took it (I have worked for a few companies, and considered others). The utility considered it digitally: either pass or fail. No one that interviewed me knew if I squeaked by or smoked it.
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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #34 on: May 18, 2007, 05:42 »
After doing some research on how aptitude test are developed and graded this is what I think about the POSS test which I think is based on a Bell Curve.

Each one of the test on the POSS was given to a sample group of test takers probably random selected operators. Their test scores were compiled and analyzed and the average score of the sample group became the norm (the average score or the target score of each module).

When the test administers give the test they probably look at three scores.

1.   Raw Score
2.   Percentile Score
3.   Aptitude score.

The raw score is just the total correct answers.

The percentile score can range from 0 to 100 percent. And 50 percent is usually the target score or average of the sample group. Most people in the sample group will usually fall within the 25 to 75 percent range.

The aptitude score is just a score derived from the standard deviation and Z-Score.
The standard deviation is a measure of how far a score deviates from the average and the Z –score is just a measure of the number of standard deviations. So I think the aptitude score on the POSS test is just a type of  Z-score used to see who has similar aptitudes as the sample group.

I think the key to passing this test with a high score is not about getting all the answers right but it’s all about hitting the target score in each module.

I think people who have technical degree like myself who study for the test might tend to hit the high side and get rejected because of being outside the range of the aptitude score and having a high percentile score.

But what I don’t understand is why would the company allow engineering majors to take the test and then disqualify them for scoring too high or too low  depending on what scale you look at?  Sure I can take the test again and just answer fewer questions. It doesn’t make sense to me to have to do that. I’m sure this has happened to a lot of people and they just didn’t or don’t realize what happen.

I would imagine also that some company’s might put more emphasis on one score or the other. Does what I thinking make sense to anybody else but me?
« Last Edit: May 18, 2007, 05:58 by John Doe »

Offline Nuclear NASCAR

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #35 on: May 19, 2007, 02:56 »


I would imagine also that some company’s might put more emphasis on one score or the other. Does what I thinking make sense to anybody else but me?


No offense intended here, but I think you're over analyzing the situation.  I've taken the POSS twice for the same company.  The 1st time was during pre-employment testing and my score got me the job.  The second time was 14 years later when I went from a fleet garage to the nuke plant.  I was told that there was a 7 year window that they gave to the test score and that after that you had to retake it if you were going to a job that required a higher score than was required at the job you were leaving. 

After I passed it again I did quite a bit of questioning regarding the test and what they look for.  We were told prior to testing that they DO NOT expect anyone to finish all of the questions.  They are looking for a percentage to be finished in each section and then at the score of those finished.  Your score on the overall test is based on your total percentage score.  However, if you flunk a section of the test you flunk the entire test.  You said that you could have bombed the mechanical concepts & assembly portions of the test.  This will cause you to flunk the POSS. 

I was not allowed to see my test to know my exact score and which particular questions I missed and I don't believe any company will allow that to happen either.  I was told that I did well on all sections.  My company had one score at that time which was the minimum to get into the fossil system, another (higher) which would get you into the nuke, and a third (higher yet) which made you eligible to bid into operations at the nuke plant.  A co-worker and I tested at the same time and one of us was told that he could get into the nuke plant but not operations without taking the test again.  The other was told that he could bid into operations at the nuke plant if he so desired based on his score.

Ask Entergy which areas you did well on and what areas you have for improvement.  Please take my next statement as the constructive analysis it is intended so that you might improve your score and chance of employment in our industry.  Instead of going on the assumption that you scored too high or over analyzing and assuming how the test is scored accept the fact that they did not accept you based on your POSS score.  This is their way of saying that you did not pass it on your overall score.  I'm sure you've already done quite a bit of searching in the time you've already been on the site and you may have already searched the POSS threads.  If not that is the best place to start.  Get the ARCO book on spatial relations found here: http://www.amazon.com/Mechanical-Aptitude-Spatial-Relations-Tests/dp/0768907098 (You can even use the Amazon search on the home page and a percentage helps support Nukeworker) . 

Go to this page:http://www.nukeworker.com/study/POSS.shtml and take the practice tests available there.  You may not be able to get any information as to where you need to improve from Entergy as they may choose not to share it and by now they may not ever have any more in their file than you didn't pass.  Practice, practice, practice.  When you get done there it's lather, rinse, repeat and then get yourself another offer to take the test again either there or at another company. 

If you have any areas that are of particular trouble or concern don't hesitate to search to find out if the answer is already here and then post if it isn't already answered.  The knowledge that exists here among the members and the threads already posted will get you through the POSS if it's possible.  The key is to do as good on it as you can and not shoot for a certain score that isn't "too high."  Taking the practice tests should give you a picture of how prepared you are for the test and any areas for improvement.  After that you can study, practice, and improve so that the next time you take the test you'll be telling us about getting a job offer because you passed the POSS. 
"There is much pleasure to be gained from useless knowledge."

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Offline hplynn

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #36 on: May 21, 2007, 09:54 »
No, I don't think you can score too high on the POSS. I have taken it 4 times. Twice I finished every section and the other two times I finished all but the math. Apparently I passed because I was offered a job as an operator each time. I'm not saying that I answered all the questions correctly, but it stands to reason that the more you can answer in the time allotted, the more you will get right.

flamesafe

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #37 on: Jun 10, 2007, 09:17 »
I took the mass/poss test and prepared for the test.  I remember having 60 questions in 22 minutes on the math long test.  Some were conversions, algebra, and math essay questions.  The practice test didn't disclose having to be able to do algebra timed.  By all means I can do algebra but not that fast.  I don't think this section you had to have 11 correct.  What's with the 11 correct thing? ???

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #38 on: Jun 10, 2007, 09:35 »
So there isn't one standard test, each company has there own version?  Exactly how hard is this test, say compared to the practice tests out there?


Does it matter? You either know the information or you don't know it.

Mike

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #39 on: Jun 10, 2007, 09:37 »
I took the mass/poss test and prepared for the test.  I remember having 60 questions in 22 minutes on the math long test.  Some were conversions, algebra, and math essay questions.  The practice test didn't disclose having to be able to do algebra timed.  By all means I can do algebra but not that fast.  I don't think this section you had to have 11 correct.  What's with the 11 correct thing? ???

You have to have a certain number of questions answered and of that number a minimum amount correct. I have no idea what the exact number is. If the number you have to have correct is 11 and you only answer the first 11 questions but get them all correct you won't pass if you had to complete at least 20 questions.

Mike

burgher

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POSS Test
« Reply #40 on: Mar 27, 2008, 12:18 »
Hi all, new to the site.  I am taking the poss test in 2 weeks and have some questions.  I have all sorts of study material and also practice exams.  Are the practice exams close to the actual test in terms of length, questions, and time?  I have just started to study everything I have.  Is two weeks a realistic time to prepare, assuming I have no industry knowledge? 

Also, is it better to skip an answer if you do not know or to guess?

Rad Sponge

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #41 on: Mar 27, 2008, 12:24 »
Industry knowledge not required.


burgher

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the poss test and interview
« Reply #42 on: Mar 28, 2008, 04:03 »
Here may be a dumb question, but here goes.  I am flying in to take the POSS test and interview for a NLO position.  The test will be Monday morning and the interview will be Tuesday morning.  Obviously I will dress in a suite for the interview, but what about the test?  I am sure the test will be stressful enough and I would be much more comfortable taking the test in lets say business casual, but don't know if that is appropriate.  Any suggestions?

Fermi2

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #43 on: Mar 28, 2008, 04:19 »
What are you wearing to the interview? I'd say at the minimum business casual. It sometimes depends on who might be at the POSS.

An example: When I took the POSS at Southern California Edison everyone who showed up was allowed to take the exam. As you completed it you'd hand it in, they'd thank you and leave. I noticed everyone who wasn't at least wearing a nice shirt and tie had their exam handed someone who took it out of the room. Now I had to stay over to take their Chem Tech exam too, I asked the examiner why they were taking certain POSS tests out of the room and his reply was if they couldn't take the time to dress for a favorable impression they saw no need to take the exam so they tossed these tests.

When I took it at Fermi we were greeted by a member of plant management and taken to the test room. They graded the exam on the spot so within an hour after the test they were sending people home. Those who remained interviewed that day.

At TVA we don't even have a member of plant staff in the room when it's taken. By that I mean Ops. You take the exam, turn it in and we get the results about 3 to 4 weeks later so I'd guess it doesn't matter what you wear.

When I interviewed at Davis Besse I was to take the POSS. The Ops Manager had to interview me early, I talked with him and two other members of their management, the person who was to give me the POSS came to get me and the Ops Manager told them to not bother, after talking to me they realized I didn't need a POSS. Later I got the first job offer the Bess gave in something like 5 years. Sadly I had to turn them down which sucked because I grew up near The Bess. By the way the method in which I got my interview is a story in and of itself and would be a great lesson on how perseverance and being a royal pain in the ass can be a huge asset.

Mike

thenuttyneutron

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #44 on: Mar 28, 2008, 05:42 »
Wear a nice Suit and tie!  Go to the test with the attitude that you WILL pass the POSS and you are interviewing for the job.  The POSS will give you more than enough stress, being prepared for the interview is an easy gimme.

When I took the POSS, only 2 people wore suits.  They were the only two hired from that batch of tests and interviews.
« Last Edit: Mar 28, 2008, 05:47 by The Nutty Neutron »

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #45 on: Mar 28, 2008, 11:35 »
Hey Broadzilla,

Id like to hear the story, I have taken the POSS test and passed with flying colors but havent been able to darken the first door for an interview.  Ive been calling the southern folks every month and even have a good friend who is an SRO at the plant Im tryin for, but still nothin.  To say the least im frustrated and lookin at some plants in SC, TENN, and NC now in hopes of maybe getting something in one of those states.  Want to stay in the southeast if at all possible.

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #46 on: Mar 28, 2008, 11:39 »
Do the practice tests.  They are not as long as the real thing, but I practiced them for a good week b4 I took the test.  When I got to the test I was so glad I had prepared because the tests were I dentical to the practice tests just longer and timed.  Dont try to answer every one of them, they are looking for quality not quantity.  They want to see how many you get right, not how many you answered. (if that makes sense)

number41

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #47 on: Mar 30, 2008, 08:13 »
I wish I could remember the exact quote, but when Ben Franklin was asked whether or not he believed in God, he replied to the effect that he'd rather believe, be wrong and lose nothing than to disbelieve and be wrong.  I'd take this attitude with the POSS, too.  When I took it I wore a suit and tie and I felt like a million bucks.  Helped me maintain my confidence and show the HR people that I meant business.  Maybe it's because I'm an arrogant a$$hole, but I automatically felt like I had a leg up on the guys wearing shorts and a T-shirt.  Guess they thought so too because I passed the exam, smoked the interview and got offered the job.  Better safe than sorry when it comes to these things, no?

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #48 on: Mar 30, 2008, 08:42 »
Yah I wore buisness causal and the effect was the same only those that presented themselves as professionals were interviewed.  Always dress for the occassion, you want to mean buisness when you take the test so be all buisness, you want to impress in the interview so wear you sunday best to impress.  Oh yah dont forget to brush you teeth before hand, no one wants to smell last nights dinner, or that days lunch (that brings back some nasty memories of folks ive talked too before.  My eye brows are still not the same and my sniffer is still numb.)

CoolBoeDee

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #49 on: Mar 30, 2008, 10:34 »
From my personal experience:

Business cas for the test, and a series of connected rooms for the interview. :)

burgher

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #50 on: Mar 31, 2008, 08:28 »
Did you use the ASVAB study guide?  I am currently reviewing this and taking the practice tests in this book.  They are much more difficult than the practice tests that I pulled from the company web site that I am interviewing with.

burgher

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #51 on: Mar 31, 2008, 08:39 »
Thanks for all of the feedback.  Since I only own one suite, I am obviously going to wear that in the interview which is the day after the test.  For the POSS, I am wearing khaki pants, a nice shirt and tie, and a sport coat.  Since I already have a scheduled interview, I think this should work well.

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #52 on: Mar 31, 2008, 09:34 »
No I didnt use the ASVAB practice tests.  Someone suggested that, but looking back on it now the company practice test are fine.  Like I said they are identical to the full blown test just shorter, and you will see the stuff from the practice tests on the POSS/MOSS test.  We're ruttin for ya.  You shouldnt have any problems though from what weve read youll do just fine.

drb1984

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #53 on: Mar 31, 2008, 11:44 »
I didnt use the asvab tests either just the practice tests. But to just warn you the real test is a little harder, longer, and the math section will contain more than just conversions. It also has basic algebra and some word problems on it also (at least mine did) that I did not find on the practice tests. Good luck, its not that hard of a test just very fast paced. Keep timing yourself to go as fast as possible but maintain accuracy and you'll do just fine!

drb1984

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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #54 on: Mar 31, 2008, 11:46 »
good luck with everything. as far as your clothing choice, good one, I did the exact same thing and got the job.

burgher

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #55 on: Mar 31, 2008, 12:35 »
I think I am going to lay off the ASVAB a little.  It is getting in depth on things like general science (vertibrea and invertibrae, plant and cell life, ect) and I think that is not really on this test from what I have read.  I'll stick to the math and general physics stuff like the things that are on the practice tests.  The funny thing is, the company is suggesting using the ASVAB.  I am doing great on the practice tests so I will keep up on those.

wolfxoman

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #56 on: Apr 01, 2008, 08:26 »
You can also go to the NRC web site and get a practice POSS test to take.  I highly suggest doing this to prep as well.  Good Luck.

Rad Sponge

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #57 on: Apr 01, 2008, 12:27 »
Where on nrc.gov is the POSS info?

Offline retired nuke

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #58 on: Apr 01, 2008, 01:37 »
These are EEI exams (Edison Electric Institute)
Practice exams are available at http://www.eei.org/practicetests/

progress / practice to log in

A brief search on the web and nukeworker leads to more information.... ;)

I don't believe that the NRC has anything to do with these exams.....
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burgher

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #59 on: Apr 01, 2008, 04:10 »
The tests here are the same as the ones that the company I applied for lists on their web site.  I just heard that the POSS is about the same as the practice tests except for the math, which has more algerbra.  The POSS is also longer than the practice.

wolfxoman

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Re: taking the poss test
« Reply #60 on: Apr 01, 2008, 04:21 »
Whoops sorry about that I referenced the wrong website.  I found it under the FPL.org site.  I had been searching the NRC site prior and thought I saw it there.  sorry for the confusion.
« Last Edit: Apr 01, 2008, 04:23 by wolfxoman »

Don Obiyae

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #61 on: Apr 11, 2008, 11:56 »
I know these results don't necessarily matter after one is hired, but is there a way to find out how well/poorly you performed on these tests?

Rad Sponge

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #62 on: Apr 12, 2008, 07:31 »
I believe that the exams are the sole property of the company interviewing you.

Don Obiyae

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #63 on: Apr 17, 2008, 09:05 »
 
But will you be able to find out your results?

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #64 on: Apr 17, 2008, 09:36 »
IIRC TVA will tell you what jobs you are qualified to bid based on your POSS, but not your score.
DTE would not do anything but tell you that you did not pass. Then they'd send you home. DTE grades the test as you take it.

Mike

Offline shehane

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #65 on: Apr 18, 2008, 10:07 »
I have taken the POSS/MASS for Entergy, Southern Power and TVA so far.  Southern Edison wanted me to take the test and we tried to get Entergy to send them (it was the most recent) but I never got a response.  Entergy and Southern had a call in saying pass or fail.  TVA actually sent a letter identifying the areas passed or failed.  I have also taken a TECH test for Southern and TVA.  It is just a watered down version of the POSS/MASS.  All of them were very similar to the ASVABs if you are familiar with them.  Don
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Re: the poss test and interview
« Reply #66 on: May 12, 2008, 11:55 »
For all of my interviews i wore khaki pants and a nice polo shirt. Everyone else had slacks and ties. Everyone that interviewed me had polos on. Not saying it helped, but I did get offers at all of those places.
Jay

RVExotics

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POSS Clarification
« Reply #67 on: Jun 30, 2008, 11:16 »
So I've been reading through as many threads as I can find about the POSS test, and I've gathered some conflicting information. I'm scheduled to take the test in about two weeks and would like to have a good idea of the format and timing ahead of walking into the room and beginning.

Q1: Does each company/plant get to set their own time constraints for the test modules? I've so far read 4 minutes for the math section, 7 minutes for the math section, and 22 minutes for the math section.

Q2: How many total math problems are there in all three sections? I've read from 40 to 60.

Q3: Since the EEI practice test doesn't include a thing about line drawing, where could I find a resource to give me an idea of the format and requirements for that portion?

Q4: A detailed description of how many sections there are and approximately how much time is allowed for each section would be great, thanks  ;D

Of course, if each company gets to choose how and what kind of test it wants to administer, this may be why I'm getting so many conflicting accounts. If it helps, I'll be taking the test for Entergy to get on as an AO trainee at Arkansas Nuclear One.

bheinz

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #68 on: Jul 02, 2008, 10:51 »
I don't know if this will be able to help you much, but it's something. I took the POSS test with Entergy 2 years ago. I just used the practice test on the eei website using the user name and password as pen/pencil. I believe there were 2 or 3 different math sections. All easy problems, but a lot of questions in a short amount of time. The hardest part was the area where you need to decide which way a gear will turn, or what pieces and parts you need to make a shape. Its not that hard, but you will feel the time pressure. Just remember they want to see how many right answers in the shortest amount of time you get. If you don't know it move on. Like I said, I don't know if it will help.

RVExotics

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #69 on: Jul 03, 2008, 12:17 »
Oh it does, thank you for the information. I'm trying to prepare myself for various possible scenarios, and am having friends put together math quizzes for me. The only module of which I can't find an example is the line drawing. Any leads there?

Offline Ops Nub

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #70 on: Jul 05, 2008, 06:31 »
I took the test 4 weeks ago. Don't worry about the real time of the test, just do the times that the practice times tell you to use and it will be proportional. All the practice tests are very similar to the actual test with the exception of the math portion having some basic algebra. All the problems are a variation of   x=?   5x + 10 = 30 all pretty easy. So just time yourself with the practice tests and you will be used to the pressure. There were 3 sections of the math portion in which I didnt even get to the third section and I still passed. Hope this helps.
Jay

RVExotics

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #71 on: Jul 06, 2008, 12:10 »
Thank you for the recent information. I'm trying to prepare myself as much as possible. Since I have just shy of three weeks until I take it, I have a lot more time than I was expecting!

I am wondering though - I've still yet to see anyone address the line drawing module and none of the practice tests cover it. Could anyone describe what it will require?

Reeves

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POSS TEST
« Reply #72 on: Jul 17, 2008, 09:55 »
Hello, 
I'm new to the site and I want to say its very helpful.  And there are some great people on here with alot of great advice.  I work in an Oil Ref. now and I'm trying to get hired into the Nuclear feild.  Some of the guys I've worked with have left our company and joined the Nuclear feild.  I wanted to know how many times you can take the POSS test in a year?  I'm tring to apply for two different locations and I wanted to know if I failed at one place can I take the test at the other?

Thanks,

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #73 on: Jul 17, 2008, 10:51 »
As long as the two locations aren't in the same utility. And even then, if they scheduled it twice, they could give it twice.

My advice for POSS study is get as ASVAB study guide. Not exactly the same, but similar. Time yourself on the math sections and get good speed with great accuracy for best results on the POSS.
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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #74 on: Jul 17, 2008, 02:18 »
I was in the Army and I passed the Asvab test before.  I have my A&P Mechanic lic. through college.  We studied alot about Turbines and all.  I think that might be a plus for me.

And thanks for the reply.

mchance

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #75 on: Jul 17, 2008, 04:36 »
Reeves,

This is my first post to this site, but l have been following some post lately. I took the Poss/Moss test for the first time in September of 07. I did not pass the first time but passed the second time in Feb. of 08.
The best advice I can give you, is to know how to make you conversions quickly and be able to do some basic algebra, example (3+18x=21).Do not let them fool you with fractions 1/4 is .25. It was easier for me to solve the problems in decimals. Get yourself an old Pre-Algebra book.The reading comprehension could also be a bit difficult. I read question and then found key words to question in paragraph to complete my answer. The mechanical part is not that difficult if you have a mechanical background. Also your test may be different I assume. I took my test with Southern Nuclear Co. Still hoping for a call from Vogtle. I hope this helps.

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #76 on: Jul 17, 2008, 04:44 »
Does the utility web site give you any links for practice tests?  I took the test back in Nov of 07 and passed it but I studied the practice tests and was suprised that they were just like the test.  The only difference is the test is longer and timed.  If you can get your hands on them study those. 

Reeves

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #77 on: Jul 17, 2008, 06:18 »
Thanks alot for the replys.......

RVExotics

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One more week!
« Reply #78 on: Jul 17, 2008, 11:46 »
A week from today I'll finally get to find out exactly how the POSS test is. I think I'm ready, but I'm going to keep working on mechanical manipulation and conversions. I still have never seen a description of the line drawing section, so I guess I'll just wing it when I get to that section. I plan to bring several pencils so that I can use one for a straight edge.

Any last minute tips?

burgher

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POSS Test
« Reply #79 on: Jul 18, 2008, 11:15 »
How long do you have to wait to re-take the POSS test for a second time, and also a third time?

Offline Smart People

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #80 on: Jul 18, 2008, 11:40 »
other posts i've read on this site say six months

i'm sure one of our well respected moderators can give you a link. we have several threads on the POSS test, do a search.
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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #81 on: Jul 18, 2008, 01:18 »
How long do you have to wait to re-take the POSS test for a second time, and also a third time?

I'm certain it varies site to site.  That said, at Callaway we've been told 30 days between tests and you can only take it 3 times.  This is for in-house personnel say wanting to go to operations who didn't score high enough to get there on their original POSS test that got them into the plant. 
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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #82 on: Jul 18, 2008, 01:47 »
Line drawing section?  I don't remember anything like that on the POSS.  The only thing I can think of that a straight edge might help on is the graphing section.  As far as "drawing" goes, there is the spatial relations or assembly questions that have "drawings" on them.  You are given a drawing of several objects that are labeled on various parts.  You have to match them up and select from four or five drawings what the parts would like like when properly assembled.

As others have said before, the best way to prepare for this test is to get a few practice ASVAB tests and work on your ability to answer the questions quickly and accurately.

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #83 on: Jul 18, 2008, 01:53 »
TVA rules state that a candidate is not allowed to re-test within a six month period of the exam.  After 6 months, at the request of the candidate, TVA at its discretion may opt to re-test the candidate.  Candidates are not allowed to test at their own expense or the expense of the union. 

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Re: One more week!
« Reply #84 on: Jul 18, 2008, 07:14 »
A week from today I'll finally get to find out exactly how the POSS test is. I think I'm ready, but I'm going to keep working on mechanical manipulation and conversions. I still have never seen a description of the line drawing section, so I guess I'll just wing it when I get to that section. I plan to bring several pencils so that I can use one for a straight edge.

Any last minute tips?
I just took the POSS Monday at Millstone.  It was just like the practice test, only longer.  I recommend that, except for the reading comprehension, you skip problems that you can't instantly attack and move on.  For me this was especially true in the math section.  There were sections of geedunk problems sprinkled in what I thought were some of the tougher (or more time-consuming ones). 

Based on recommendations from some of the nukeworkers I bought an ASVAB prep book (McGraw Hill version - it had a CD with extra practice exams).  The math section was probably the most beneficial, but I recommend you stick with problems similar to the ones in the EEI POSS practice test.

One more recommendation:  for the graphing portion, fold your scrap paper in half and use it as a straight edge.  That helped me go a little faster. 

To get the practice exams go to a utility website (http://www.fplcareers.com/about/contents/test.shtml) and click on the link.  I recommend printing the exams and doing the exams as fast as you can (just like EEI recommends).  Hope this helps.  I passed the test, by the way.

Derek Murray
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RVExotics

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #85 on: Jul 20, 2008, 01:03 »
Congrats Derek! And thank you Bleyse. I guess I misread somewhere along the way about a line drawing section - it must've referred to the graphing section. I'm glad to hear that though, because until now I didn't know there was a graphing section! I knew there was a section about reading tables and graphs, but not drawing graphs.

I've worked through a couple of ASVAB practice tests but stopped using them because the math involved far more complex problems - like knowing formulas for different scenarios. I'm assuming I won't need to know formulas for kinetic energy, momentum, etc for the POSS test.

I did buy the ARCO Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations book and have been working through it. I'm consistently scoring high in each section, so it's giving me some hope for next Thursday.

I'm just looking forward to getting the thing over with!

Derek, did you receive a notification from Millstone that you passed, or were you able to check the results online?

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #86 on: Jul 20, 2008, 07:46 »
I knew there was a section about reading tables and graphs, but not drawing graphs.

I've worked through a couple of ASVAB practice tests but stopped using them because the math involved far more complex problems - like knowing formulas for different scenarios. I'm assuming I won't need to know formulas for kinetic energy, momentum, etc for the POSS test.

I did buy the ARCO Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations book and have been working through it. I'm consistently scoring high in each section, so it's giving me some hope for next Thursday.

I'm just looking forward to getting the thing over with!

Derek, did you receive a notification from Millstone that you passed, or were you able to check the results online?

There are no graphs to draw.  It's just like the practice test.  I used the straight edge to help me line up the points on the graph and focus on the appropriate line on the tables.

WRT the math, it was just like the practice test.  One section of conversions and then a section of mostly algebra.  This involved a lot of questions on decimal points and dividing fractions.  Examples:

.5X + 5 =  3.5X  + 12.5; solve for X

divide 3X/2 by 4x/12

These are not exact problems that I saw, but they are the type I didn't practice much.

Here's the e-mail I got:
RE: 8854BR, Nuclear Plant Equipment Operator


"Derek Murray,

Congratulations, your test result for the EEI Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) test is Recommended Fossil, Hydro & Nuclear. We are currently evaluating the qualifications of those individuals who were recommended. Dominion will be reviewing the pool of applicants who will move forward to the next step in the screening process.

Your test result is valid with Dominion indefinitely. We know your time is valuable and we appreciate you taking the time to take the test. Thank you for your interest in employment with Dominion.

Sincerely,


April Fisher"
Testing Coordinator

Hope this helps.

DM
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RVExotics

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POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #87 on: Jul 22, 2008, 05:35 »
Quick Question: Is the table of conversions on the real POSS test the same as the table on the practice test? In other words, are all the same unit conversions on the real one and is it in the same order? This could be handy to know Thursday for quick reference or a reminder.

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #88 on: Jul 22, 2008, 05:42 »
When I took the test in November it was in the same order.  The test however was a little more complicated then the practice test so study some harder conversions, algebra, basic mathmatics, and word problems.  Best of luck to ya.

RVExotics

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #89 on: Jul 22, 2008, 05:51 »
Great, thanks for the quick response! I just wanted to be sure if I had to reference the table, I would have a general idea where to quickly glance if it was in the same order.

I've been practicing lots of conversions and simplistic algebra. Were the word problems along the lines of "Beth works 60 hours this week and is paid $5.60 for the first 40 hours, plus time and a half for overtime. How much did Beth make?" or the more confusing "What is the radius is a wheel that is three times larger than a wheel with twice the...yadda yadda"?

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #90 on: Jul 23, 2008, 05:34 »
Dont over study yourself.  I thought this was going to be some big test that would really rack my brain, but in the end was suprised it was just a basic knowledge test.  The ASVAB was harder if you ever took that.  Just study those practice tests and I promise youll do fine.  Good luck my friend and let us know how you do.

By the way which utility is it for?

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #91 on: Jul 23, 2008, 05:53 »
Not on the exam I took last week at Millstone.   I ended up finding some easier ones towards the end, so you might find it useful to do all the straightforward conversions first.  I did not finish the math section, which included the conversions, but I did all the conversion section.

Derek
The things that will destroy America are prosperity-at-any-price, peace-at-any-price, safety-first instead of duty-first, the love of soft living, and the get-rich-quick theory of life.
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RVExotics

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #92 on: Jul 23, 2008, 07:01 »
I have done a couple run-throughs of the online practice ASVAB tests, and I kind of found them challenging, mainly because I needed to know some specific physical science and math formulas that I haven't studied in years. I've been doing a bit of balancing between preparing for the test and trying to enjoy my last summer off, as it were. I would like to think I'm now prepared sufficiently, and I have a feeling that much of passing this exam is due to innate ability rather than preparation (hence the fact that it's an aptitude exam) so there's really only so much you can prepare. I have to admit, I wish I could've learned long division and multiplication as quickly when I was a student as I did when I refreshed myself on it a couple weeks ago!

I'm taking the test in hopes for an AO position at Arkansas Nuclear One. I'll update the thread tomorrow afternoon!

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #93 on: Jul 23, 2008, 08:54 »
Oh yah one last thing, I dont know how it is in arkansas but here at our utility its not so much how many you complete but more the quality of the ones you complete.  In other words you dont have to finish all of them to pass, I met a fella that took the test and passed it but only did 10 questions on the math part.  Not that im saying do that, but just a little more fodder for the fire.

RVExotics

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Re: POSS Math Conversion Table
« Reply #94 on: Jul 24, 2008, 01:19 »
Quick update: The table was not the same as on the practice exam. More about it in the "A reflection on the POSS test" thread I'm creating.

aeon

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #95 on: Jul 25, 2008, 10:36 »
I'm having trouble accessing the EEI test brochure  and practice test pages. None of the user names and passwords I've found online seem to work. I get 'The account you entered was not found or your browser may not be enabled to accept cookies.' My cookies are enabled. Can anyone help me out?

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #97 on: Jul 27, 2008, 04:40 »
Sorry if this has already been asked, but is the POSS something you take after a company hires you, or is it like the SATs for getting a college to accept you?

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #98 on: Jul 27, 2008, 04:50 »
It's more like the SAT's, a pre-employment test.  Here's a pretty good thread on the POSS from a member who just got done taking it last week: 

http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php?topic=14894.0
"There is much pleasure to be gained from useless knowledge."

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action48a

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Re: POSS Clarification
« Reply #99 on: Sep 04, 2008, 08:44 »
Hi all this is my first time posting. I took the POSS Test two days ago so it is still fresh in my mind.  I feel that most of it was no problem I was able to complete the mechanical concepts and the reading comprehension portions of the test.

The only real trouble that I had was the mathmatics. If I had it to do over again I would save the first section (unit conversion) for last. About halfway through the math section I was still stuck in the unit conversions it is just too time consuming. When I said forget this I went to section 2 and it was basic algebra and moved along much faster the same can be said about the word problems.

Each section has its easy ones like quarts to gallons, one step algebra, and distance travelled word problems. My recommendation is if you can't solve it in 10 seconds move on because you will miss the easy points concentrating on the time wasters.

Hope this helps.

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #100 on: Oct 09, 2008, 10:36 »
Typing AEP in both the login and password works.
I have found that the EEI site only likes to work when accessed from a power company website.

From my understanding, all EEI tells the company it is dealing with is whether they passed or failed. They don't give out scores.

What freaked me out both times I took the POSS/MASS tests, is that durring the reading/comprehension part, I was done with roughly 10 minutes to spare. This was unnerving (yes I finished everything) as everyone else was still hard at it for at least the next 5-10 minutes.

AmazinAZ

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #101 on: Nov 09, 2008, 11:39 »
This thread is comforting in that all the advice I have been getting at the plant regarding my upcoming POSS test is to not guess and leave blanks if I am unsure is correct advice. That a wrong answer is worse then a blank answer, it is scored different then equating a blank as a wrong answer. They say they are looking for the percentage right in the amoun answered. We shall see. I am also studying for the ASVAB and taking those practice tests online. I took the EEI practice exams and passed with 96% or higher on each section, however they were untimed, so I am freaking about the timed aspect of the test.
Thanks for a great post for those of us who are on edge.

turkdavid

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #102 on: Nov 11, 2008, 10:38 »
This thread is comforting in that all the advice I have been getting at the plant regarding my upcoming POSS test is to not guess and leave blanks if I am unsure is correct advice. That a wrong answer is worse then a blank answer, it is scored different then equating a blank as a wrong answer. They say they are looking for the percentage right in the amoun answered. We shall see. I am also studying for the ASVAB and taking those practice tests online. I took the EEI practice exams and passed with 96% or higher on each section, however they were untimed, so I am freaking about the timed aspect of the test.
Thanks for a great post for those of us who are on edge.

AmazinAz - I just wanted to give you some advise that I have learned from taking my POSS test recently. The test are timed and you most likly will not finish all of the questions. You are right about it is more important to have right answers comparied to not answering them. I felt that the Math section was the hardest. So I would like to give you advis on this section. First go to 3 or 4 Plant sites and find their practice test and answer all of the conversion questions. Write down what conversions you had to use to answer the question. Now memorize all of those conversions. Next thing there is algebra.. If you are a little rusty work on algebra with fractions. Most of the questions when I took the test three weeks ago, were algebra with fractions. There is also word problems. My test had 20 conversions, 20 algebra, and 20 word problems with only 17 mins. to do them. If you are supper smart you might be able to answer all of them, I could not actualy I only answered about 50% conversion, 25% algebra, and 20% word problems. I made a mistake and started taking too much time on the conversons "I did not study conversion prior to testing" and was not able to get to all the easy question on the Math part.

So to conclude what I am saying is study conversions, and algebra. If it takes you longer then a one step conversion skip it and or longer then 20 secs. Just skip it and go to the next there are plenty of easy questions that you can answer. I felt fine about the whole test until after the math part. When I completed the test and was driving home I thought I failed it cause I did not answer enough question on the Math section. I was wrong Yesterday I recived a letter saying that I did pass the test and I will be contacted to sechedule an interview in a couple months. Good luck to you

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #103 on: Nov 11, 2008, 01:09 »
If you skip questions they will count as wrong, that is what I did to err on a resent POSS test.
I know that I passed every section with 95% or better.
That last 17 min. math test I did about 6 on the first page then turned the page. that means that I missed 14 on the first page.

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #104 on: Nov 11, 2008, 02:26 »
How do you know your percentage or grade?

lionhart

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Poss Test Help
« Reply #105 on: Nov 17, 2008, 01:06 »
I am scheduled to take the POSS test tomorrow. Can someone help me to understand what is on the math portion?  The online practice test only has conversions on it, but I'm hearing that there is also algebra on it.  Can someone give me an example/or point me to the right place to see what type of algebra is on there?

I'm just trying to find out what type of skills I need to brush up on.  I haven't done algebra since my freshman year in college (8 years).

Thanks for the help.

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Re: Poss Test Help
« Reply #106 on: Nov 17, 2008, 01:50 »
And you are waiting until the day before the test to study because???

Having never taken the POSS, I can't help much regarding the algebra content. But there are several places on this board where many people have shared their experience, knowledge and advice regarding the POSS test.

Good luck...
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Re: Poss Test Help
« Reply #107 on: Nov 17, 2008, 02:59 »
I was just called and invited to take the test today.

Wish I had more time.

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Remember that you will die, and that this day is a gift. Remember how you wish to live, may the blessing of the Lord be with you

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Re: Poss Test Help
« Reply #109 on: Nov 17, 2008, 03:38 »
I was just called and invited to take the test today.

Wish I had more time.
Karma to ya for knowing when to ask for help.Good luck.

lionhart

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Re: Poss Test Help
« Reply #110 on: Nov 18, 2008, 02:24 »
The Test wasn't bad, except for the math part.  I guess they saved the best for last :D

It was really just a timing issue (only 17 Min.)  On the first part I did all of the one step conversions then skipped the the next section.  On the Algebra section I did all the simple Algebra then moved on to the word Problems where I completed all the easier ones quickly.  I then rotated back to the conversions and finished all but two of those.

I skipped all the difficult time consuming problems the first round through.  I hope my strategy paid off!!  We'll see.

lionhart

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Re: Poss Test Help
« Reply #111 on: Nov 25, 2008, 04:32 »
Well I passed.  Such a relief.

racer

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #112 on: Nov 28, 2008, 08:29 »
Looking for an answer,

I just received my letter for the POSS Test. I was appling at Diablo
Canyon. I passed for the hydro and Fossil position but didn't receive a passing score for the Nuclear position. The Hydro/Fossil (poss-pp) and the Nuclear (poss-DC) are labeled as two different tests in my letter. Can anybody help with an answer about the poss test as pass or fail or, what are the differences in these two tests. I only took the POSS Nuclear test. Thanks for your help.

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #113 on: Nov 28, 2008, 09:59 »
You take the entire exam and they give you what you're qualified for based on the results of the exam.

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #114 on: Nov 30, 2008, 09:16 »
I know that at my utility everyone testing for power plant positions takes the POSS.  Fossil plants require a lower passing score than nuclear, nuclear OPS takes a higher score still. 
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question about poss test
« Reply #115 on: Dec 08, 2008, 08:21 »
hi i found this site while searching on the internet and this is my first post.  i searched some on here and when i have more time i will go more in depth with the site.  i'm from north alabama and have ties with tva.  my mom is a laborer and she has been working on and off for tva for like 15 yrs.  i have 3 good friends that are operators 2 at browns ferry and one in a plant in stevenson.  i took the eei test b4 and i can't remember exactly but it was basically different sections that was passed and failed.  i believe it said nuclear op, fossil op, hydro op, instrument mech, and one more that i can't remember.  i passed all of them except nuclear and just my luck brown's ferry is a nuclear plant.  i was told there will be an op class coming up and my friends said they will let me know about it.  while waiting i have been applying for all op jobs that comes up at tva.  well in one from tn they said in order for me to take the test again i would have to send them something saying that i had some type of training since the first time i took the course.  so i was wondering does anyone know of a prep class or something like that for the eei test.  I also got a call from a fossil plant in kentucky and they was like i basically had the job but i never heard anything back from them.  i've been extremely frustrated by all of this.  I really need to score high enough to pass the nuclear part.  Also the only company i have been able to find operation jobs is tva if someone could i would love to know about other opportunities in the field.  i don't know exactly what the education should be for this job but i think i'm under qualified but my mom may be able to help me at brown's ferry.  i have 62 hrs from auburn but i had to drop out because of money problems.  i feel i'm fairly bright i scored a 26 on my act but that's the only standard test i have taken.  to be honest i was quite shocked when i didn't pass the eei test being i helped my friend study for his and he passed it.  like i said i have read some threads and i see the study book and the practice test online but i was hoping maybe it was a class or something like that since tva sent me that e-mail.  any help would be greatly appreciated and thanks for listening bye!

Fermi2

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #116 on: Dec 08, 2008, 02:21 »
First learn to capitalize and try less run on sentences.

Mike

Offline dagiffy

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #117 on: Dec 08, 2008, 03:33 »
I don't think the nuclear industry has caught up with IM Chat language/shorthand. There are also a lot of prescriptive linguists in this field that expect to see proper grammar when you write. Everything you study will be in proper English, with capitalizations and periods, no run-ons, etc. Like it or not, the way you write matters and will in a lot of cases be the first impression you make.

You mentioned you had 62 hours or so at a college. Does it include algebra, trig, calculus, chemistry and physics? If so, send TVA a copy of your transcript. You have to want it bad enough. You could go to your Navy recruiter and ask to test for the Nuke program. They have a test on site you could take. If you score high enough they'll want to send you to MEPS, where you'll take the ASVAB. Maybe it's different now, but that's how it was when I went in. You'll know if you have enough lead in your pencil after that test. If you don't score high enough, look at what you did poorly on and concentrate on improving those areas.

Offline cole256

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #118 on: Dec 09, 2008, 08:17 »
I don't think the nuclear industry has caught up with IM Chat language/shorthand. There are also a lot of prescriptive linguists in this field that expect to see proper grammar when you write. Everything you study will be in proper English, with capitalizations and periods, no run-ons, etc. Like it or not, the way you write matters and will in a lot of cases be the first impression you make.

You mentioned you had 62 hours or so at a college. Does it include algebra, trig, calculus, chemistry and physics? If so, send TVA a copy of your transcript. You have to want it bad enough. You could go to your Navy recruiter and ask to test for the Nuke program. They have a test on site you could take. If you score high enough they'll want to send you to MEPS, where you'll take the ASVAB. Maybe it's different now, but that's how it was when I went in. You'll know if you have enough lead in your pencil after that test. If you don't score high enough, look at what you did poorly on and concentrate on improving those areas.

I understand that, I did not believe I was applying for a job.  I thought I was asking friendly people for advice.  I thought that since there was even a forum in the first place that it meant the people wanted to help but maybe i was wrong.  Yes i have taken algebra, algebra II & trig, calculus 1 & 2, and engineering physics.  I took chemistry in high school but not while i was at Auburn.  I know i need to have a drive to get anything i want in life, trust me that is not a problem.  I have already talked to people within the company.  I actually spoke with a man that said he does the interviewing in the hiring process.  He said that i wouldn't have been called to take the test if i wasn't qualified.  I was just asking the board because i didn't know if he was just trying to be nice.  What really made me think about it was the job call from the fossil plant in kentucky.  I just basically wanted to know was there some sort of class that you could take to prep you for the test.  If not I don't understand what i can do or show to say I'm better prepped to take the test a second time.  From reading on this site I think I messed up by rushing at the end and filling in blanks when told to stop.  But I don't want to leave anything to chance and while I don't think the math is hard at all, I don't think there is a way to find out what my weak areas are.  Thank you for your feedback I really appreciate you taking time out your day to offer me advice.

Offline cole256

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #119 on: Dec 09, 2008, 08:33 »
First learn to capitalize and try less run on sentences.

Mike
Thanks for all of your help kind sir.  Looking at many of your previous posts I see how very helpful you can be.  Hope I made you feel better, have a blessed day.
« Last Edit: Dec 09, 2008, 09:03 by cole256 »

Offline Roll Tide

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #120 on: Dec 09, 2008, 09:46 »
I thought I was asking friendly people for advice.  I thought that since there was even a forum in the first place that it meant the people wanted to help but maybe i was wrong. 

Helpful advice? Absolutely!  :)

Friendly? Maybe the curmudgeons have better insight anyway...  ;D


You didn't give a specific location, but the local community colleges try to accomodate potential test-takers with prep classes. That weekend training alone should be enough to get you re-tested. Chatt State and UCLA (University of Calhoun Longside the Airport) both offer classes. If you are in Jackson County, try talking to the Principal at EPCOT (Jackson County Tech); Dana Moore was very interested in getting something in place.
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Offline cole256

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #121 on: Dec 09, 2008, 11:49 »
Sorry roll tide.  I live in Florence, AL.  I called Northwest Shoals but they said they don't have the funding for the class anymore.  So I was hoping to find some other schools.  I believe I read that you are at Brown's Ferry.  That's where my friends and family work at.  But I'd actually be willing to leave and go anywhere to work.  Thanks for the help I'm about to call UCLA now.  I already called Chatt State yesterday and they said they are getting a class in place for maybe January.
« Last Edit: Dec 09, 2008, 11:50 by cole256 »

Fermi2

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #122 on: Dec 09, 2008, 04:30 »
You're on a website that has quite a few potential employers. You're asking questions concerning employment, it's in your best interest to put your best foot forward.

Mike

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POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #123 on: Jan 05, 2009, 09:33 »
I have been searching this site for some time, I haven't seen anyone specifically talk about the "short math" section that could be give for the POSS. If you have taken this version I would love to know a little more about the type of questions for this version.

This is directly from the POSS testing brochure:

"Mathematical Usage. There are two versions of this test. The short version measures candidates' skill in working with basic mathematical formulas based on information provided at the beginning of the test. This version of the test includes 18 questions and has a 7-minute time limit.

The longer version of the test measures skill in solving and manipulating mathematical relationships. There are three sections: formula conversion problems, algebra problems, and word problems. The total test contains 46 multiple-choice items and has a 17-minute time limit."

Thanks!
« Last Edit: Jan 05, 2009, 09:40 by BoilerHP »

jc

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #124 on: Jan 05, 2009, 09:43 »
It's been a few months since I took the POSS. If I'm remembering correctly, it was sixteen eighteen questions with seven minutes to complete. They were all conversion problems like what is found on the EEI site's practice test.

Edited to add: Looks like you amended your post while I was composing mine. I was wrong about the number of questions.
« Last Edit: Jan 05, 2009, 09:46 by jc »

BoilerHP

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #125 on: Jan 05, 2009, 09:59 »
Interesting, so its just the conversions... If you don't mind me asking, what employer was this with? Do you (or anyone) know if this is completely random or does the company select which version they want administered? Also thanks for the reply!

lionhart

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #126 on: Jan 05, 2009, 11:11 »
I had no idea that there is two versions.  Does anyone know why?

jc

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #127 on: Jan 06, 2009, 12:38 »
Interesting, so its just the conversions...

Yes. As a matter of fact, they are the exact same problems that are given on the conversion section of the long math test. Verbatim. I don't know why they gave me both the short and long math tests during my POSS session, but they did. I did the 18 conversion problems on the short math test, and then did the exact same 18 questions again a few minutes later as part of the long math test. I guess that actually helped me out on the long math test, because I remembered most of the answers for that section.

Quote
If you don't mind me asking, what employer was this with?

TVA.

Quote
Do you (or anyone) know if this is completely random or does the company select which version they want administered?

I can't say for certain, but I'm pretty sure the employer decides whether to give the long, short, or (as in my case) both.

Offline Bleyse

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #128 on: Jan 06, 2009, 07:31 »
I think with TVA they give both short and long math together because it is a combined POSS and MASS test.

BoilerHP

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #129 on: Jan 08, 2009, 09:42 »
I finally got the call today, taking the POSS on the 16th. After all the information I gained from this site and the practicing I have been doing I am way more comfortable and actually prepared for it this time. Thanks a lot everyone and I will certainly keep you all posted when I receive results.

One last random question maybe someone else may know, on the POSS were there conversions of cups, tablespoons, teaspoons and those small "cooking" measurements?

Thanks all,

Boiler

jc

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #130 on: Jan 08, 2009, 10:02 »
One last random question maybe someone else may know, on the POSS were there conversions of cups, tablespoons, teaspoons and those small "cooking" measurements?

Yes.

BoilerHP

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Re: POSS "Short Math" Section
« Reply #131 on: Jan 08, 2009, 11:45 »
Thanks JC,
Now I can add those to my stack of flashcards to aid in the math section :D

irsmusic

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First how are you guys doing? My name is Chris & im new here to this forum...I would like to know what should i be expecting for? Also What subjects should i study for the most? I took the test on FPLs website but the asvab book i bought has math,machanical concept ect. is all different on the book then the test online...anyone have any advice for me, recommend any books? any Info would be great...

Thank You

Chris

BoilerHP

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Best of luck, Tables/Graphs and Math are the most difficult due to the speed at which you need to complete the sections. It is not so much the material that makes this test difficult but the speed at which you have to go through the problems. I have made a few posts in the POSS sections I would recommend reading those and the replys to them and it will hopefully help you feel more at ease! I have taken the POSS and did not get recommended and I am taking it again on the 20th so I have some experience with it and have been studying a great deal. Feel free to PM me to talk more specifically.

http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,16781.0.html

http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,16811.0.html

In the ASVAB book I used the math, assembly and Mechanics chapters the most.
« Last Edit: Jan 16, 2009, 12:47 by BoilerHP »

Hyperwire

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I stumbled upon this site researching AO positions and am glad I did. I've learned so much more here than all my previous googling on nuke ops.

Thursday I took the POSS and afterwards was led back to HR to await my score. It came back "recommend" after about 5 minutes.
Here's what I've learned (at least for the company I've applied to):

   The score comes back on a scale of 1-10. If you've scored a 5 >, you're recommended; otherwise your score is "not recommend". My proctor told me that was the only information they receive.
   I was also told some sections are weighted equally, while other parts of the test carry more weight.
   The EEI practice tests are extremely accurate on subject and scope, so if you do well on the practicve within the allotted timeframe, the actual POSS shouldn't be much more difficult.

Here's my personal experience. Although I passed, my experience bordered on nightmarish. I have no nuclear experience and have completed some college. But it's been 10+ years since I've taken any standardized test outside of the POSS practice on EEI's website, which I only missed 3 questions on. I had an appointment and was the only person taking the test, so between sections, I had time to get chatty with my proctor. On the actual test, I did not have enough time to finish the Assembly, Tables and Graphs, or Math Usage sections. Because of this, I was really concerned about not passing, even though I knew the questions I had answered were correct. And I am so glad they were able to give me my results immediately, because I'd have gone nuts waiting for the results.

Speaking of waiting for my results, here's something interesting that I experienced, my proctor made it seem like they sent the tests out to be scored and that she wasn't sure when she'd get the results, that because I was taking the test so late in the day (2pm), the results may not come back until the next morning. She told me this after I had taken the first section (assembly) and had not completed it. This leads me to believe that if you do not answer enough questions out of even 1 section, you're automatically disqualified and will receive a not recommend.

Here's some tips:

take the EEI practice tests. Have a friend time you so you have a feel for the little amount of time alloted. They are exactly like the real test with the exception of having fewer questions.
in the math section especially, answer the easy questions first, then go back and complete the more difficult/multiple step questions
if you are skipping questions, make sure you're filling the bubble to the right question
read the questions first in the reading section, so you have an idea what you're looking for while reading
in the chart section, pay attention to where the bold line items are so you're looking at the corresponding item down the chart
use the edge of the scrap paper to line up your graph if necessary but don't do it the whole time or you will run out of time
in conversions, do all the easy ones first
in assembly, cross out the wrong answers first to narrow down what you're looking at

That's all I can think of for now. I'll post more if I can think of anything else. Good luck!



BoilerHP

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Great post, very similar to a lot of the stuff people have said including myself... I am *re-taking* the POSS on Tuesday since I was totally unprepared and misinformed the first time I took the test. After not being recommended I found this site for that information and I feel at least 20x more prepared. Thanks for the extra confidence booster from your post.

irsmusic

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Thank You for the Info....

skewter30

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #137 on: Jan 20, 2009, 04:58 »
If you skip questions they will count as wrong, that is what I did to err on a resent POSS test.
I know that I passed every section with 95% or better.
That last 17 min. math test I did about 6 on the first page then turned the page. that means that I missed 14 on the first page.

This seems to be contrary to what everyone else is saying.  Can anyone confirm?

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #138 on: Jan 20, 2009, 05:13 »
You need to answer questions. The danger in skipping them is not getting enough done to get graded.

He's FOS if he says he knows he got 95% or better. Its not graded like that.

skewter30

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math sections on PSS
« Reply #139 on: Jan 21, 2009, 11:09 »
Just talked to a friend who said the short and long math tests were the same questions.  He said they gave him 7 minutes to answer 60 questions  and then gave him 17 minutes to answer the same 60 questions. 

He thinks he may not have followed directions as he did the conversions again in teh 17 minute test and only got about 50% through the test.

where the questions the same on both of your math sections?

jc

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Re: math sections on PSS
« Reply #140 on: Jan 21, 2009, 11:44 »

skewter30

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Re: math sections on PSS
« Reply #141 on: Jan 21, 2009, 02:42 »
THanks.

skewter30

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #142 on: Jan 24, 2009, 12:24 »
Well  just took the POSS test!  Only concerned about two portions, The first math and the first graphing.  I only finished 10 questions on the first math, and probably 80% on the first charting.  Should I be worried?  I swept the second math and finished most of it.

BoilerHP

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #143 on: Jan 24, 2009, 12:47 »
I did about the exact same and passed (took it last Tuesday)... sounds like you will have a good probability assuming you were right most of the time. I answered 36/46 math questions.

What utility and site was it for?
« Last Edit: Jan 24, 2009, 12:49 by BoilerHP »

Offline gsmagnum

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #144 on: Jan 24, 2009, 11:07 »
You aren't supposed to finish a couple of the sections.
It made me feel like I missed something on the Reading/Comp test as I was finished first both times I took (and passed) the test. (like the next person done was not for another 5 min)

Offline cole256

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #145 on: Jan 27, 2009, 11:40 »
Well, I have to take the test Saturday!  I'm excited and nervous, I will just keep studying and give it my best effort!

BoilerHP

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #146 on: Jan 27, 2009, 11:46 »
Best of luck!

irsmusic

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Math On The POSS Test!!!
« Reply #147 on: Jan 27, 2009, 12:28 »
Hey guys I just to see if anyone could help me out and give me some sample questions that appeared on the Math section. What kind of basic algebra did they have and did they have linear equation to graph (how are the questions to graph it). How were the Word Problems? Thank you for your time.

BoilerHP

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Re: Math On The POSS Test!!!
« Reply #148 on: Jan 27, 2009, 01:35 »
Read some of the other posts... I know I gave some examples after I took it recently. Look in either "short math section" or Another POSS reflection" I gave some pretty detailed info.

I would also recommend reading just about every post in the POSS section and search specific things.

skewter30

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #149 on: Jan 27, 2009, 08:25 »
Passed!.  I am very excited.  I will be contacted for an interview.  Thankfully I have people pulling for me on the inside!

BoilerHP

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #150 on: Jan 27, 2009, 09:29 »
Told yah ;) congrats, but now best of luck! What company is this for?

skewter30

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #151 on: Jan 28, 2009, 04:21 »
Constellation Energy.  It is in my home town.  I live just 5 miles from the facilities.  My wife teaches near bye and we really wanted to stay in the area.  If I can give a convincing interview life is good!

Offline retired nuke

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #152 on: Jan 29, 2009, 08:03 »
Constellation Energy.  It is in my home town.  I live just 5 miles from the facilities.  My wife teaches near bye and we really wanted to stay in the area.  If I can give a convincing interview life is good!

Good luck Skewter - getting a house job where you already live is a big bonus - you don't have to make the life transitions that everyone else does. Also, you already have a life outside of work...It worked that way for me. The fact that you are already grounded in the area should be a plus, as they won't have to worry as much about you taking a license and going to Exelon...
When I was asked in my interview why I wanted to work here (at the time I was a road HP, and would take a big cut in pay to go house) I placed a pic of my infant daughter on the table, and said I wanted to watch her grow up in person, not from across the country. Got the job, still here 7 yrs later.... ;D
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Offline dagiffy

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #153 on: Jan 29, 2009, 07:50 »
I'm flying out to nine mile point to take the POSS on Monday, and the interview Monday afternoon. The email that the HR person sent me explicitly said to dress for the test, not the interview. Dress to be comfortable.

I'm trying to decide whether I'll outsmart myself if I dress in a nice shirt and tie, slacks, the whole bit for the test, so that I'll be dressed for the interview. Or will that tell them that I don't follow instructions...

Oh I wish she wouldn't have said that.

BoilerHP

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #154 on: Jan 29, 2009, 07:54 »
I dressed comfy but nice, I find dressing nice helps with confidence on important exams. Why not khakis, nice polo or button down minus the tie (business casual).

Do what you feel will help you on the test!

Best of luck.

skewter30

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #155 on: Jan 30, 2009, 10:25 »
Good luck Skewter - getting a house job where you already live is a big bonus - you don't have to make the life transitions that everyone else does. Also, you already have a life outside of work...It worked that way for me. The fact that you are already grounded in the area should be a plus, as they won't have to worry as much about you taking a license and going to Exelon...
When I was asked in my interview why I wanted to work here (at the time I was a road HP, and would take a big cut in pay to go house) I placed a pic of my infant daughter on the table, and said I wanted to watch her grow up in person, not from across the country. Got the job, still here 7 yrs later.... ;D

Thanks for the advice.  I think it will help that I am established in the area.  I think that has already played a role in getting my foot in the door at Human Resources. 

BoilerHP

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #156 on: Jan 30, 2009, 10:46 »
If you don't have any kids, maybe you can borrow "dads" photo of his kids... worked for him 8). But best of luck and hope things work out for yah.

jcupertino

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #157 on: Jan 30, 2009, 11:04 »
I agree w/ Boiler HP.

BoilerHP

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #158 on: Jan 30, 2009, 11:08 »
Plus you never know who you will run across while testing, the Ops Director may stop by and take a peek at the potential crew (like was done when I tested). Of course there may be potential co-workers if you land the job, and I remember who I tested with and first impressions are important.

Offline dagiffy

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #159 on: Jan 30, 2009, 07:55 »
Well, I have to take the test Saturday!  I'm excited and nervous, I will just keep studying and give it my best effort!

Yeah, good luck. I'm taking it Monday at Nine Mile Point. I was informed that everyone will be interviewed afterward, in two groups. The ones that have early flight departures will get the first group, the late departures are interviewed second. The HR person told me that 18 took the POSS last week, with 6 passing the test.

Ouch.

Offline cole256

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #160 on: Jan 31, 2009, 02:10 »
Well i just came back from my test.  I think i was well prepared thanks to this site and the great information on it.  I'm just worried about one part of the test, and that's the first one we took the short math one.  It had 18 questions that had to be done in 7 minutes.  I just finished 12 or 13 of them.  I think it was because I was so nervous.  It had me shook since that was the first part of the test and I didn't do what I wanted to do on it.  But I shook it off and I finished everything else on the test but tables and graphs and the long math.  I was only short 4 or 5 on table and graphs.  The long math I finished around 14 on the conversions; all of the algebra; and around 10 or 11 word problems.  What do you guys think??  Do you think there is a chance I passed even though I only finished 12-13 of 18 on the first section??  It was a combined test they said what sections is for mass and what are for poss? 

BoilerHP

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #161 on: Jan 31, 2009, 02:17 »
Sounds like you have a very high potential. From what I know the "short" math is for the MASS. I would think that this is considered a separate test and would have no affect on the POSS portion. Best of luck!

Offline cole256

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #162 on: Jan 31, 2009, 02:44 »
If that would be the case I would be so happy.  Because on the second and longer math section I was able to answer more because I remembered some from the first and I had got into a groove by then.  Man they said it would be 8 to 10 weeks before the results come back!!  I read some peoples posts where it seemed like they received their results back the next day!

BoilerHP

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #163 on: Jan 31, 2009, 02:56 »
I got my results about 2-3 days after the test. I have yet to hear about an offer, last update I received was on Monday; that no choices had been made. To boot, the HR person that I was talking to had his last day on Thursday so I am pretty in the dark :(
« Last Edit: Jan 31, 2009, 04:47 by BoilerHP »

Offline dagiffy

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #164 on: Jan 31, 2009, 04:33 »
If that would be the case I would be so happy.  Because on the second and longer math section I was able to answer more because I remembered some from the first and I had got into a groove by then.  Man they said it would be 8 to 10 weeks before the results come back!!  I read some peoples posts where it seemed like they received their results back the next day!

I guess that's true. I was talking to a guy who is at Wolf Creek about my upcoming POSS on Monday. He said they usually have some kind of way to tell right away if you passed the test, but that it's not official until it's been sent off to whomever grades these things. Right now the thing that's making me nervous is the interview portion, not the test. :)

jcupertino

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #165 on: Jan 31, 2009, 05:43 »
They send the tests off to EEI in Washtington DC to be graded.  Most companies receive their results back from EEI in 48 hours. 

Offline tigger

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #166 on: Feb 01, 2009, 04:20 »
The TVA equivalent to an AS is 60 hours in sciences. If you have that, they will consider you even if the degree is not complete. From the list of classes that you listed, you were well on your way to a science related degree. That is a plus in your corner. The POSS test, if you for some reason didn't pass the nuclear portion this time, remember this. They grade based on the number of questions answer and the amount of those that are correct. If you don't know the answer SKIP IT! They are looking for a percentage of questions answered. If you get the majoirty of them answered and 90% of those are correct, you should be fine.
On hiring into OPS. Some people have said it took two years to get a call to interview. Some have said they interviewed 3 or 4 times before being offered a job. On one occasion I saw a person test, interview and be hired into the SGPO class in 6 weeks.
If you want to work at TVA there are a couple things you can do to help yourself. Go back to school while waiting to hear. Or, go to the Laborer's Union and join. Get your face seen around the plant, show that you want the job, you will work hard, and be relible. Get to know the people in the department you want to work in. Do not try to sell yourself off to them. If someone mentions that a job opening is coming, let a comment in there that you will be applying for it. And let it go.
These are just suggestions. I wish you the best of luck.

Offline dagiffy

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #167 on: Feb 04, 2009, 05:10 »
I found out I passed the POSS on Monday. In the event they don't choose to hire my services, and I apply elsewhere, will this POSS count anywhere else I apply? Or do you take the POSS for every plant you are invited to interview for?

Terry Hines

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ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #168 on: Feb 19, 2009, 05:36 »
Hi,

I am due to take the POSS Test and the knowledge test this Saturday.  I have the EEI study guides and practice tests for the POSS test but does anyone have any info or practice tests for the Knowledge Test.  They sent me to a site with 9 chapters to download but just wondering if anyone has taken this test recently.  Looks like most in the past have taken the POSS test first and then the knowledge test on another day.  My invite states I will be taking both tests on the same day and the testing will last 7 hours - any suggestions or insight to this "KNOWLEDGE" testing for SCE?

Offline dagiffy

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #169 on: Feb 19, 2009, 07:46 »
I just passed the POSS. I didn't take a knowledge test, what is that exactly? They never mentioned anything about it.

heavymetal atom

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #170 on: Feb 19, 2009, 08:08 »
I assume you're taking the knowledge test for Southern California Edison, right?  Most utilities don't have something equivalent to that, but from what I saw when looking at that job posting earlier this week it looks like it's just basic PWR related knowledge.  I would doubt that the test would cover anything not in those 9 different documents.  They cover basic math, physics, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics (as you probably already know).  I know it's a lot of material but it would probably be worth giving it at least a quick read through.  You could always skip the stuff that you're already comfortable with.  If something from those chapters seems incomplete or poorly explained then you could supplement a bit with a physics textbook or something similar, but like I said I don't think they're going to throw you a curveball by asking questions which aren't based on the material.         

BoilerHP

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #171 on: Feb 19, 2009, 09:04 »
Tim,
You have an opportunity at SONGS? Hope all is well, and best of luck for all of yah.

~Adam

Terry Hines

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #172 on: Feb 19, 2009, 11:26 »

DAGIFFY - Are you applying for the ANPEO position at SONGS?  Is it not necessary for me to be concerned about the Knowledge test on the first go around?  I am quite concerned about it because I have only today and tomorrow to get ready and to read all 9 chapters.  If I only need to be concerned about the POSS test right now that would help narrow my study efforts.  Any specifics you could offer regarding the ANPEO at Songs would be greatly appreciated.

Offline dagiffy

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #173 on: Feb 20, 2009, 09:01 »
No sorry I'm not applying at SONGS. I passed the POSS in NY recently and as far as I know there was no knowledge test. I am curious as to what it is.

Terry Hines

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #174 on: Feb 20, 2009, 10:13 »
This is what the job posting states for the ANPEO at SONGS:

The successful candidate must pass the following pre-employment requirements: written battery test, written knowledge test, medical, and drug screening. Study guide for written knowledge test is available on http://westrain.org (select Documents, then select Pressurized Water Reactor: Generic Fundamentals).

It is basically 9 chapters of studying.  Problem is that I am trying to cram it in 2-3 day timeframe.  Guess I will just take the test tomorrow and see how it goes.

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #175 on: Feb 20, 2009, 11:57 »
You will dominate the proceedings and lay waste to the grading curve.

Terry Hines

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #176 on: Feb 20, 2009, 12:31 »
Thank you for the vote of confidence - appreciate that!

NukeNub

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #177 on: Feb 20, 2009, 03:48 »
Good luck with the testing.

It could be worse, you could be taking a BWR fundy test.

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Re: ANPEO POSS Test and Knowledge Test at SONGS
« Reply #178 on: Feb 20, 2009, 04:04 »
This is what the job posting states for the ANPEO at SONGS:

The successful candidate must pass the following pre-employment requirements: written battery test, written knowledge test, medical, and drug screening. Study guide for written knowledge test is available on http://westrain.org (select Documents, then select Pressurized Water Reactor: Generic Fundamentals).

It is basically 9 chapters of studying.  Problem is that I am trying to cram it in 2-3 day timeframe.  Guess I will just take the test tomorrow and see how it goes.

Thanks for the link to the study guides...looks like there would be some stuff there that might help people, even if they were going to other utilities...

Good luck on the tests!  :)





Modified to fix quote brackets
« Last Edit: Aug 22, 2013, 11:43 by UncaBuffalo »
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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #179 on: Mar 19, 2009, 08:23 »
Hey,
   
    I hired on with TVA back in 07'.  I went throught the POSS and MASS crap and got all but Nuke Ops.  I wasn't the least bit upset though.  I was after I&C, not Ops.  Your chances of getting hired greatly improve if you apply for anything and just "get in".  After that, you can go through the program and move to where you want internally, happens every day.  Ops has been hiring AUO's left and right.  I saw 2-3 AUO classes go through the training center while I was there for my 18 mo. of instrumentation training.  The I&C program is actually a 3 1/2 yr program, 18 mo of that is in he training center, the rest is OJT.
    If you do get hired on, be ready to become a professional test taker.  Also be ready to take oral exams in front of a board on a regular basis.  The money is GOOD, but you will be out here a lot.  You know this im sure, seeing that your friends and mom work here. 
    Just to let you know, it took me over 6 mo. to get hired on.  It was the longest hiring process I have EVER been through.  Its all about dedication.  If you want it, make it happen.  Call people, bug people, make contacts.  I will tell you this; the job can be frusterating, with long hours, but this is probably the BEST place to work in this area.  People need power, especially clean power. Plus we are a 3 banger plant.  Can you say job security? ;D  If we could get rid of our INPO 4 status we would be sittin good.
    I went to UCLA, got my instrumentation degree there. They can help you a little.  Go see Ron Tayor or Richard Ferrara in the Industrial Maint. dept. Get to know some folks up there and maybe take a few classes, they are good references.  Hope I helped, I know how frusterating it can be to get on with TVA.  If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. 

Best of luck to ya!! 8)

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Re: question about poss test
« Reply #180 on: Mar 19, 2009, 10:51 »
I found out I passed the POSS on Monday. In the event they don't choose to hire my services, and I apply elsewhere, will this POSS count anywhere else I apply? Or do you take the POSS for every plant you are invited to interview for?

To back up what Jason said, it depends on the utility.  If the utility you took it at is say, Exelon, the test would probably be shared with any other Exelon site.  This would help just due to the sheer size of the company and the number of nuke sites that they operate.  If it's a single nuke site utility then it would be at the discretion of that utility.

Best of luck and keep us posted!
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Nutty

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #181 on: Mar 20, 2009, 04:07 »
So, I took the Poss and Mass test for a company that I had applied at.  They decided to go with someone else.  Now I have another potential job that requirs taking the test.  Does anyone know if it is possible to get my scores for the test, and if so, how?

Thanks

heavymetal atom

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #182 on: Mar 20, 2009, 10:26 »
So, I took the Poss and Mass test for a company that I had applied at.  They decided to go with someone else.  Now I have another potential job that requirs taking the test.  Does anyone know if it is possible to get my scores for the test, and if so, how?

Thanks

HoneyComb is right on the mark with those links.  Let me also say from personal experience that the transferring of scores varies quite a bit by utility.  Apparently many are very willing to transfer scores elsewhere.  On the other hand, I've actually had some trouble transferring my POSS scores outside of the company with which I took it, probably due to the fact that I'm still being considered for another position within the same utility.  Still the worst case scenario is that you merely have to bite the bullet and retake the POSS. 

So what do you need to do in order to get the ball rolling?  First off, you need to talk with someone in HR from the utility you're now applying to.  They will give you a release form to fill out which varies a bit by company, but is pretty standardized.  Fill it out and send it to the utility where you originally took the POSS.  If all goes well you'll save yourself 2 hours of filling in bubbles.  Good luck.

-Tim     
« Last Edit: Mar 20, 2009, 10:29 by Heavymetal Atom »

leaveamessage

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #183 on: Mar 20, 2009, 11:29 »
I just got the invite today to take the POSS. Im pretty excited, but I only have about 2 weeks to prepare. I have taken the practice tests, and they seem very easy to me... This worries me a bit because I've alway fought math. Did anyone else find the practice tests, and/or the actual POSS to be easy?

Also, what is the difference in the POSS and the AVSAB?

Thanks,

D

Offline UncaBuffalo

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #184 on: Mar 21, 2009, 09:19 »
I just got the invite today to take the POSS. Im pretty excited, but I only have about 2 weeks to prepare. I have taken the practice tests, and they seem very easy to me... This worries me a bit because I've alway fought math. Did anyone else find the practice tests, and/or the actual POSS to be easy?

Also, what is the difference in the POSS and the AVSAB?

Thanks,

D


Are you timing yourself as you take the practice tests?  There's nothing difficult about most of the questions (esp. the math), but completing all of them in the time allotted tends to be a challenge.
« Last Edit: Apr 04, 2009, 09:06 by UncaBuffalo »
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hayden

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passed poss test last year - is it still valid?
« Reply #185 on: Mar 27, 2009, 02:06 »
I took the poss test with Entergy just over a year ago and was recommended. I reapplied for a operator job but I do not know if my recommended status is still valid. Any ideas how long the results will be good? Thanks!

heavymetal atom

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Re: Math On The POSS Test!!!
« Reply #186 on: Apr 23, 2009, 11:38 »
That's a pretty acurate representation of the test Zwink.  One thing to keep in mind for the real one is that the Math section does contain more than just conversions.  The section will have 46 questions and only 17 will be conversions.  The rest will be a combination of basic algebra and word problems.  The algebra will look something like these: 3/X = 6/7 , 14 + 3x = 31 , etc.  Nothing difficult at all, but time can still be an issue.  Good luck on the real thing and keep us posted regarding your results.

-Tim 
« Last Edit: Apr 23, 2009, 11:40 by Heavymetal Atom »

Fossil

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Geometry on POSS?
« Reply #187 on: Apr 25, 2009, 10:35 »
Can any of you remember, when you took the POSS test, was there simple geometry on the math portion? Such as calculating volume, area, or circumference.

Offline vagabond

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Re: Geometry on POSS?
« Reply #188 on: Apr 25, 2009, 05:06 »
There definitely was real simple geometry.  It might have been only 2 of the 3 you mentioned.  The appropriate equations were supplied with the test, but it doesn't hurt knowing them.  Those questions made up a small portion, maybe 3-5, of the total questions.  Have you taken the practice tests?  Are you troubled by the possibility of them being on the test?
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Fossil

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Re: Geometry on POSS?
« Reply #189 on: Apr 25, 2009, 05:42 »
Yeah, I have taken the practice ones, but I have also taken the real one to get into the fossil plant that I am currently at. There was more than just conversions like the practice test has. I just could not remember, once past the conversions, if there was geometry or not. I am just trying to study my butt off to score high enough for a nuke plant. I am trying to touch on everything that I may encounter. This has been a goal of mine since shortly after I started as an Aux. Operator at a fossil plant. I REALLY want to make the switch. :)

zwink

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Anyone know of more than 1 practice POSS?
« Reply #190 on: Apr 26, 2009, 09:06 »
All the links I have seen for POSS practice tests link to that EEi.org site, and every single one was the same test:  July 2004.  Does anyone have a link to a practice POSS that is not from July 2004?  I'd love to take one more before I take the real thing Tuesday.

Thanks

heavymetal atom

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Re: Geometry on POSS?
« Reply #191 on: Apr 27, 2009, 02:21 »
Vagabond is basically spot on.  Know these and you're golden for the 3-5 "geometry" questions:

Area circle = Pi R2
Circumference circle = 2Pi R (or Pi d)
Area triangle = 1/2bh

To be honest they really are that simple.  It's not a geometry test, it's a can you crunch 46 numbers in 17 minutes test.

-Tim
« Last Edit: Apr 27, 2009, 05:31 by Heavymetal Atom »

Offline Creeker

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Re: Geometry on POSS?
« Reply #192 on: Apr 27, 2009, 04:11 »
Quote
Circumference circle = Pi R

Isn't that 2*pi*R?

Bham_Dave

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Re: Anyone know of more than 1 practice POSS?
« Reply #193 on: Apr 28, 2009, 01:49 »
I only found one practice test online myself. Mind if I ask what company and position your interviewing with. Seems every company has a different time line for testing and interviewing. Nice that you get to do it all in one trip.

zwink

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POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #194 on: Apr 28, 2009, 12:45 »
I've read about 100 different posts on the POSS and how it may or may not be graded, calculated, tabulated, stipulated, or anything else :p  But I can tell you how it works at VC Summer since I just took it...

(in the order we had to take the sections)

Math: 46 problems, 13 minutes; conversions, short algebra, word problems
The test giver told us that wrong answers in this section count against you, and that your total correct number (correct - missed) will be multiplied by 2.  I think she said something like you only need 10 correct in this section.  I probably got 36 or so... the time is insane on this one. If you can complete this section in the allotted time, you probably need to go design rockets. The questions are not hard, the timing is. I left the word problems for last because they suck.  Recommend doing the easy conversions, the easy algebra, the harder conversions, the harder algebra, then moving to word. 

Assembly:  20 problems, 10 minutes
Wrong answers do NOT count against you on this section, and the total correct is multiplied by 4  (as opposed to 2 in the math section) because it is considered the most difficult section. I didn't get to 1/20 of them... doh. I will say that many of them were more difficult than the practice test.  How exactly I cannot say, I think mainly that the answer selections were more similar than dissimilar so it took longer to narrow down the correct one.

Mechanical Reasoning:  40 questions, 20 minutes (I think)
She didn't say about the multiplier or whether these count against you, but I am assuming incorrect answers do.  You cannot really study for this, its either junk you can or cannot solve based on simple physics, life, mechanical knowledge, or imbued brilliance. lol. I will say there was one mechanical one I just couldn't figure out... because the drawing was confusing. It looked like a 4 year old etched two leavers and a blob in between :p

Tables:  60 questions, 5 minutes (I think it was 5)
I answered them all (most likely correctly).  I think these count 1 point each and wrong answers do hurt you. However, if you are a fast table reader, this gets you "freebie" points.  Such an easy section in my opinion.
Graphs:  20 questions, 3 minutes (I think...)
Same thing as above, takes a bit longer to derive answers because they lines are all the same frickin color and width so even when you find the line on the graph, you have to trace it back to the letter.  Most graphs aren't like that in the real world...

Reading comp:  36 questions, 30 minutes or so
If you can read the newspaper, you can do this.  Pretty sure there were 5 articles and about 6-8 questions on each.  I finished 10 minutes early, but your success on this test will probably be a function of your reading speed. Make sure you read the choices carefully, some of them are a "trick" (like inverting the wording on something you just read which inverts the answer in some cases). 

The employer tallies up your total scores on all COMBINED sections, and if you fall within a certain range for operations, you pass.  She didn't say what that was.  She did say ops had to get higher than some other jobs.  I should find out later today how I did, optimistic for now :p
« Last Edit: Apr 28, 2009, 01:47 by zwink »

heavymetal atom

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #195 on: Apr 28, 2009, 01:55 »

Tables:  60 questions, 5 minutes (I think it was 5)
I answered them all (most likely correctly).  I think these count 1 point each and wrong answers do hurt you. However, if you are a fast table reader, this gets you "freebie" points.  Such an easy section in my opinion.
Graphs:  20 questions, 3 minutes (I think...)
Same thing as above, takes a bit longer to derive answers because they lines are all the same frickin color and width so even when you find the line on the graph, you have to trace it back to the letter.  Most graphs aren't like that in the real world...


You're right most graphs are not like that in the real world.  One of the more annoying parts of the test in my opinion.


Math: 46 problems, 13 minutes; 20 conversions, 20 short algebra, 20 word problems
The test giver told us that wrong answers in this section count against you, and that your total correct number (correct - missed) will be multiplied by 2.  I think she said something like you only need 10 correct in this section.  I probably got 36 or so... the time is insane on this one. If you can complete this section in the allotted time, you probably need to go design rockets. The questions are not hard, the timing is. I left the word problems for last because they suck.  Recommend doing the easy conversions, the easy algebra, the harder conversions, the harder algebra, then moving to word. 


I'm not sure that this section is as tough as you're making out.  I finished the entire section with 20-30 seconds to spare, but I don't plan on designing rockets any time soon. (We did get 17 minutes for the 46 problems though)  I'm fairly shocked that she told you that you only needed 10 correct to pass the section.  Seems very low to me.  Still it's nice that your proctor was so forthcoming with explanation regarding the scoring specifics.  Sounds like she gave you A LOT of information about when wrong answers count against you, how many correct answers you needed to pass sections, multipliers, etc. 

I'm sure many future test takers will find this information valuable, although it may be helpful to note that POSS grading policy may vary a bit between companies.  I know that the scores required to be recommended for nuclear ops do in fact vary between utilities, although I'm not sure if the actual method of scoring does.  Obviously SCANA does it this way so that's good to know.  Best of luck with your results.  Keep us posted.

-Tim           
« Last Edit: Apr 28, 2009, 02:02 by Heavymetal Atom »

Offline vagabond

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #196 on: Apr 28, 2009, 09:14 »
I'm fairly shocked that she told you that you only needed 10 correct to pass the section.  Seems very low to me. ...

I agree with this.  This could be partially correct though.  You may only need 10 correct, but you probably need to answer a certain amount before it will count.  People have stated this before, and it makes sense.  Computing ability and response time seem like important characteristics that are desired.  If they only need 10 correct answer out of 46 there would be a lot more people passing I believe.
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zwink

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #197 on: Apr 28, 2009, 10:05 »
Actually we may have had 17 minutes on the math, probably a mistake on my part.  Regardless, mad props on finishing that section... I'm going to go out on a limb and doubt many people do that. You should really look into rocket assembly (though maybe not under this president, doubt hes throwing much $$ to NASA).

I actually hadn't seen most of that "type" of (easy) math in 10 years, and I found myself wasting time on silly things like finding these asinine conversions out of the reference chart.  I'd have been better off with differential calculus problems.   Anywho, I did get a call that I passed today -- they don't give the score, just a pass / fail.  Interviews are next week; they got delayed a bit for some internal reason. 

I found it interesting that I was the only person there for testing with no prior military (specifically Navy) experience... so did they :)

heavymetal atom

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #198 on: Apr 30, 2009, 06:45 »
Nice job on the POSS.  Congrats.  Good luck with your upcoming interview.  As I'm sure you know there is a bunch of good interview advice buried in various threads here.  Don't let all those navy nukes scare you.  ;)  Sounds to me like they need some diversity, and you just might be their man. 

-Tim

zwink

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #199 on: Apr 30, 2009, 08:14 »
Thanks!  Will let you know.  They got tons of AO slots open, so maybe I'll get 'lucky' :p

connedale

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #200 on: May 06, 2009, 10:20 »
Is the unit table the same on both practice test and real test?

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #201 on: May 06, 2009, 11:59 »
Is the unit table the same on both practice test and real test?

don't ....memorize...the....unit... table

part of the test is thinking on the fly. That's why it's timed.




heavymetal atom

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #202 on: May 07, 2009, 11:25 »
don't ....memorize...the....unit... table

part of the test is thinking on the fly. That's why it's timed.


The fact that the test is timed and that time is very limited seems to be a good rationale for memorizing as much as possible beforehand.  The unit table on the real thing is different than the one on the practice exam, but there is some overlap between the two.  Memorization of the practice table plus a handful of other related conversions will almost certainly save you 30 seconds to a minute (it did for me).  I'm the type of person that thinks I can never be too prepared for something, but you'll have to decide whether or not it's worth the effort for you.         

-Tim     

Offline vagabond

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Re: POSS De"Myst"ified
« Reply #203 on: May 08, 2009, 01:21 »
I'm the type of person that thinks I can never be too prepared for something, but you'll have to decide whether or not it's worth the effort for you.              

This! 

Seriously, why wouldn't you memorize?  It's timed, and every second matters.  Since I memorized the conversions I had extra time to check my work, twiddle my thumbs, and look around to see that people were still working while I was waiting impatiently.  The first time I took the test I didn't memorize the conversions and didn't complete all the questions. 

Just because the info is supplied on the test, and the testing is for thinking on the fly doesn't mean that you shouldn't come in fully prepared.  A few sayings come to mind.....

Work smarter, not harder!
If you ain't cheating you ain't trying  =P 

The last one is more joking of course though.  Living by the first is essential in my opinion.

Like Tim said, the practice conversions aren't the same as what's on the test.  I compiled a list of all volumetric, distance, area, etc. conversions.  A lot of them I have never used nor heard of, but many were on the test.  I assume they do this so you are less familiar with the units so they test your ability to reference and calculate.  Go in with a full arsenal of weapons to destroy the test!!
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Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #204 on: May 24, 2009, 09:18 »
Hi all.  This is my first post.  I am an ex-navy nuke ET.  I only did 5 years active duty due to medical reasons.  I will have my bachelor's in Nuclear Engineering Technology from TESC in september.  I am taking the POSS and doing an interview on May 27th at Arkansas Nuclear One with Entergy about an Auxiliary Operator position.  Any advice you have to offer about the test or interview would be much appreciated.  Also, with my experience, how likely does anyone think it is that I would be offered the job assuming my test and interviews go well?  Also, how long after my interview should it take before I hear something back from them about the job?  Thanks for any input you have.

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Offline jams723

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #206 on: May 24, 2009, 12:01 »
ANO likes Navy nucs.  They have had some good ones that were ET's so that will not be a negative. However you should emphasize mechanical aptitude. willingness to work and get dirty.  The NLO position is more aligned with a MM watch.  If you are going to talk about your future degree make sure you are taking the final classes to get the degree.

nyegards@gmail.com

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #207 on: May 24, 2009, 12:32 »
thanks for the input, jams.  i have completed all courses for my degree and i have applied for graduation.  i just havent received the degree yet b/c the earliest graduation date available is in september.

Offline Nuclear NASCAR

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #208 on: May 24, 2009, 12:38 »
Off-topic posts have been removed. 
"There is much pleasure to be gained from useless knowledge."

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Offline jams723

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #209 on: May 24, 2009, 07:16 »
thanks for the input, jams.  i have completed all courses for my degree and i have applied for graduation.  i just haven't received the degree yet b/c the earliest graduation date available is in september.

Then good luck, also remember to use proper sentence structure on our emails and correspondence.


Fermi2

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #210 on: May 24, 2009, 08:36 »
CAPITALIZE!!

connedale

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #211 on: May 24, 2009, 09:59 »
I am also taking the POSS on this date at ANO.  However, I have not been notified about a coinciding interview.  Is this because you are out of state?

JustinHEMI05

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #212 on: May 25, 2009, 01:23 »
Good luck and keep us posted! If you haven't done it yet, and if its not too late, google STAR interviewing technique.

Justin

JustinHEMI05

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #213 on: May 25, 2009, 01:25 »
I am also taking the POSS on this date at ANO.  However, I have not been notified about a coinciding interview.  Is this because you are out of state?

Be prepared for the interview, just to be safe. If they do it similar to the two places I have been, you will all take the POSS together and those that pass, will be invited to interview right then. Those that do not, will be sent on their way.

Justin

PS For any ex Navy nuke taking the POSS, don't assume it is an automatic pass. You NEED to review and take the practice exams that are out there.
« Last Edit: May 25, 2009, 01:27 by JustinHEMI »

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #214 on: May 25, 2009, 01:48 »
I am taking the POSS and doing an interview on the same day.  I think this is because I am coming from out of state.  I have taken the only practice test I can find online.  If anyone knows of any others, please inform me.  When should I expect to find out my test scores and if I got the job?  Also, how many job openings does anyone think they have for this position?  Thanks for the help.

 

connedale

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #215 on: May 25, 2009, 03:22 »
There are two classes.  I cannot remember the exact number, but there are between 25 and 30 openings.

nyegards@gmail.com

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #216 on: May 27, 2009, 11:47 »
I just finished taking the POSS at ANO.  I finished the math, reading, and mechanical portions.  I answered 18 out of 20 of the assembly questions.  On the tables and graphs I finished 55 out of 60 on the first portion, and all of the second portion.  I feel pretty confident about it.  Hopefully I will find out soon how I did.

JustinHEMI05

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #217 on: May 27, 2009, 07:19 »
Congrats, keep us posted!

Justin

connedale

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #218 on: May 27, 2009, 09:35 »
Are tables and graphs counted as one score?

I did good with the tables, but got about 75% on the graphs.  This is my only concern on the test.
« Last Edit: May 27, 2009, 11:18 by connedale »

Fermi2

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #219 on: May 27, 2009, 09:47 »
I just finished taking the POSS at ANO.  I finished the math, reading, and mechanical portions.  I answered 18 out of 20 of the assembly questions.  On the tables and graphs I finished 55 out of 60 on the first portion, and all of the second portion.  I feel pretty confident about it.  Hopefully I will find out soon how I did.

You should do fine.

nyegards@gmail.com

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #220 on: Jun 14, 2009, 06:28 »
A few days ago I got a letter from Entergy saying I was not recommended  for the AO job as a result of my POSS score.  The next day I got a letter from them saying I was recommended for the position as a result of my POSS score.  I'm not sure why this would happen.  Does anybody have any insight?  I am going to call them tomorrow to hopefully find out what is going on.  Thanks for your input.

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #221 on: Jun 14, 2009, 06:34 »
Does anybody have any insight?  I am going to call them tomorrow to hopefully find out what is going on.  Thanks for your input.

Can't spell H opeless dayshifte R without HR.... they often get things confused.

connedale

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #222 on: Jun 14, 2009, 08:23 »
« Last Edit: Jun 15, 2009, 08:25 by connedale »

connedale

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Re: Ex-navy nuke taking POSS
« Reply #223 on: Jun 18, 2009, 10:41 »
If anyone would like to study ASVAB prep books for the POSS, PM me and I will send some to you.  I have kept them clean and mostly unmarked.  All I ask is that when you are done, give them to another guy here on nukeworker forums.

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #224 on: Sep 25, 2009, 06:22 »
On the EEI practice test that I've been looking at doesn't seem to have an algebra problems or word problems like I'm seeing here on this board that it has some.  Can anyone point me to a practice test that is like the real thing?

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #225 on: Sep 26, 2009, 02:26 »
The only practice tests I have ever seen come from the EEI links on most energy companies web pages.

http://www.exeloncorp.com/careers/practice_test_study_guides/

Perhaps the thread also discussed the Basic Math and Science Test (BMST) that Exelon Operators must pass as well as the POSS.

Jason

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #226 on: Sep 29, 2009, 06:28 »
as is Indy. Downtown Indy is AWESOME, take some time to visit.

Mike, I knew there was something I liked about you, I finally found out what it is. ;)

But if you're really reccomending sightseeing in the circle city, don't forget the World Capitol of Racing ©, located in Speedway Indiana.  A must see for any race fan, and well worth a visit for those deluded souls who are not race fans.
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telling the wolves where to stick it.

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Where can I pass the POSS test?
« Reply #227 on: Oct 21, 2009, 11:34 »
Hallo together,

I’m Frank from Germany and I will immigrate to America as fast as possible.
My profession is power plant operator in a fossil fuel power plant and
I’m looking for a job in the USA.
This forum is very good for me and I found a lot of information.
Very important for me is the P.O.S.S. test and I have a question.
Where can I pass the test? Is the test generally accepted around America?
I prefer to settle on the west coast and Colorado but I could make the test
on the east coast, that is not so far from Germany.

Thank you for your answer.
Frank

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Re: Where can I pass the POSS test?
« Reply #228 on: Oct 21, 2009, 01:02 »
Unfortunately it is not that easy. You do not take the test until you are being considered for a job and then the utility that is considering you will give you the test, prior to a formal interview. If you pass the test, you will probably get the interview... fail and you won't. If you pass the test at one utility and do not get the job, the next utility will make you take the test again (and pass it) before they will interview you. Each utility administers and grades their own tests.

Good luck and welcome to Nukeworker.com
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Offline HydroDave63

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Re: Where can I pass the POSS test?
« Reply #229 on: Oct 21, 2009, 01:14 »
I prefer to settle on the west coast and Colorado but I could make the test
on the east coast, that is not so far from Germany.

Thank you for your answer.
Frank

Frank,
   There are several utilities with fossil plants on the West Coast and Colorado (which also has a couple largely German communities) that hire periodically. PM me with any questions.

Dave

rockoil

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POSS Test
« Reply #230 on: Nov 22, 2009, 11:04 »
I got my POSS test result yesterday and I did not pass. I'm crushed! Any advice and help would be extremely appreciated. Thank you.

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #231 on: Nov 23, 2009, 11:49 »
did you study the practice tests?  did you answer the questions you knew and went back to the ones you didnt and didnt answer the ones you didnt know?  were you very nervous?  did you complete at least half of the questions in each section before time was up? 

You can take it again I think in a few months, so you have some time to prepare for when they offer it again.  Dont be upset with yourself though, it is made to be a little nerve wrecking.  Some of the fellas on this site have had to take it more than once so keep your chin up. 

I have also recently learned this test has an extremely high failure rate, for what reasons I dont fully understand yet.  I know when I took the test 300 folks took the test and only 24 passed.  You can do it though.

rockoil

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #232 on: Nov 24, 2009, 04:06 »
I'm going to follow up on some of the things I didn't do after reading your reply. Thank you very much for the encouragement! You must be a big Penn State fan?

Whitefield

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CBEST TEST
« Reply #233 on: Nov 25, 2009, 03:37 »
If you are preparing for any if you are searching for any study material than you go for this site CBEST TEST where you can get material for almost most of the tests and exams
Hope this information is beneficial, Stay safe, Cheers
« Last Edit: Nov 26, 2009, 05:09 by Whitefield »

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #234 on: Nov 25, 2009, 09:22 »
Yah whitefield is right bout that, use the study tab at the top of the page and find things on the test.  We are glad to be of service around here since we have all been there before, and yes I am a huge Penn State fan.

rockoil

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #235 on: Nov 29, 2009, 07:12 »
Thanks Whitefield! I'm going to check it out know. Take Care.

rockoil

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #236 on: Nov 29, 2009, 07:19 »
Thank you B.PRESGROVE! I appreciate all of the kindness here. Before Saturday I had Penn St. ranked #11. My favorite Penn St. players were Jack Ham and Franco Harris.
« Last Edit: Nov 29, 2009, 07:21 by rockoil »

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #237 on: Nov 29, 2009, 07:25 »
Yah Im hoping for a good bowl game, but we will see.  Alot of good teams out there vying for a bowl right now.  Yah Harris is one of my all time favs, but I really like Clark the QB I honestly think he should be in the running for the Heisman.

pg1

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #238 on: Nov 30, 2009, 04:36 »
Yeah I got my results back for the MASS/POSS test back a few days ago and the automation said that I did not meet the minimum requirements.  I really wanted to gain some more info about how i did, but when I called the HR department the person told me that I had passed the MASS part, but not the POSS part.  That really confuses me since it was all one test.  I guess the grading for each is different, but I really don't know.  Any info would be much appreciated.

B.PRESGROVE

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #239 on: Nov 30, 2009, 05:11 »
Yah there are two different sections of the test.  When I first took the test it was for POSS/MASS and the computer said I passed the POSS but failed the MASS, but when I called they said I passed both.  Didnt help though still didnt get an interview.

jowlman

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #240 on: Nov 30, 2009, 05:31 »
Yes it is one test but different sections are graded for different fields, mechanical, electrical and instrument maintenance, fossil, hydro and nuclear operations. At least that is how it is broken down for TVA.

Offline shehane

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #241 on: Dec 01, 2009, 02:14 »
There is the POSS/MASS and a seperate Tech test (can't remember the name).  I had to take both sets for TVA and the tech test for Southern Power.  I got my results for the POSS/MASS for TVA and got an offer for operator.  I past the Tech test but never saw any results.  I got an offer for RP and took that spot at Sequoyah.  All the test were almost identical including ones I took in the past for Entergy and Commonwealth Edison (awhile back).
I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be! Dirk Gently

Offline UncaBuffalo

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #242 on: Dec 26, 2009, 12:37 »
Studying for the POSS isn't going to help a whole lot, if at all.

Just go back and look at some math, and algebra based physics... 

Maybe 'study' isn't the right word for how to best prepare for the POSS, but a person had better 'practice' hard for it (two weeks minimum), or they won't be tuned up enough to finish all the sections (esp. math).

jmo
We are plain quiet folk and have no use for adventures. Nasty disturbing uncomfortable things! Make you late for dinner! I can’t think what anybody sees in them.      - B. Baggins

Offline Steph0349

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Poss Test
« Reply #243 on: Feb 03, 2010, 01:31 »
Hello All,

I am taking the POSS test in a few days. I have read some of the other discussions, is it correct that it is quality over quantity? I know that I am going to struggle on the math section, and I would feel better knowing that I do not have to complete them ALL. Any other tips for the Poss test? Thank you soo much! I appreciate it.

Offline crusemm

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Re: Poss Test
« Reply #244 on: Feb 03, 2010, 01:44 »
First, to immediately answer your question:
Honeycomb,

If you're going for the EEI P.O.S.S. test then you must practice taking the test.  I have seen brialliant people fail this test.  Search this message board for POSS or P.O.S.S. for guidance.

There are 7-8 modules that are timed.  Some you'll finish some you will not.  Tips for success...

1. Make sure answers you give are correct.
2. You must have 11 correct answers per module (each utility picks a different number and 11 is the highest I've heard of.  I also heard 15 is the max score per module)

3. The last module is math conversions and you only have 7 minutes to get your 11 right answers.  A legend is provided but it'll help if you have some (all) of the conversions memorized.
4. There is a module on print reading (follow the line).  Use a straight edge like half of your scratch paper or break the pencil they gave you in half.

Items 3 and 4 are what gives most people trouble.  I'm not sure if TVA will give this exam but most (all?) utilities give it and is an INPO standard expectation.  If you fail any of the modules you probably won't make the interview list.  Also, I'm not sure how the scores change on selecting incorrect answers.  I've taken it twice and gave the same advice as above to others who have taken it and passed.  I made sure all answers I chose were correct.

Here's the practice exam...

http://www.progress-energy.com/aboutus/employment/eei/index.asp


Next, did you even read the post at the top that says : Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!

If not, here's the link: http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.0.html

Use the search function, read the Stickies, use decent written English, and all should be OK.

Good luck on the test, and God Bless.
« Last Edit: Feb 03, 2010, 02:07 by Nuclear NASCAR »
Authentic truth is never simple and that any version of truth handed down from on high---whether by presidents, prime ministers, or archbishops---is inherently suspect.-Andrew Bacevich

mtr1514

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Re: Poss Test
« Reply #245 on: Feb 03, 2010, 02:58 »
Hi,

Did you take the EEI practice tests?  So your in the ballpark and know what its like?  Well the actual test is more challenging than the practice tests.  And it is quality over quantity.  So you have to have the strategy of doing the easy problems first and coming back to the harder ones later.  Dont guess because the wrong answers count against you. 

Also the math test given on the POSS varies.  Some utilities give the short or long test.  The short test has only conversions and a 7 minute time limit.  Your lucky if you get that one.  I ended up getting the long test.  Three sections consisting of conversion, basic algebra, and word problems. 

Basically what I recommend is what I'm doing now.  Practice.  Most people taking the test can probably get a 100% given enough time to take it.  But the short time limits is what makes it so challenging.  And if your not fresh out of high school or college, your brain can stand to be re-trained to think faster by practicing.  The reading comprehension and mechanical aptitude sections were the two sections that had the most time to spare.  Also go through the entire forum posts on POSS testing.  If you feel your weak on any of the five sections, go through some workbooks recommended on this site and buff up.

Hope this helps.

Offline Steph0349

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Re: Poss Test
« Reply #246 on: Feb 03, 2010, 03:35 »
Thank you all for your help and tips! I greatly appreciate it. I will let you know how I do! Thanks again!!!!

Offline VIPBOY7

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POSS TEST
« Reply #247 on: Mar 26, 2010, 05:58 »
Hey guys. I am taking the POSS exam in a week. I will start studying from the ASVAB. I do know that not all sections from the ASVAB will be on the exam though. Which ones from the ASVAB are similar to exam? I see Arithmetic Reasoning and that seems pretty familiar to practice exam but im not sure. Any help please? Thanks.

mtr1514

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #248 on: Mar 26, 2010, 06:03 »
Dig a little deeper.  Look at the practice exams on the EEI website.  And before you ask where that is, check out the other POSS threads.

Have a good day and good luck!

Offline VIPBOY7

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #249 on: Mar 26, 2010, 06:04 »
There is also a section called Mechanical Comprehension but its all definitions pretty much. From the practice exam I figure that the Mechanical Section will be figures and you just have to say which letter rotates or something like that. Am I right about that?

Offline VIPBOY7

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #250 on: Mar 26, 2010, 06:06 »
Ive studied the practice exams from the EEI but from what im reading those questions arent that similar to the real exam so I dont want to rely on that.

mtr1514

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #251 on: Mar 27, 2010, 01:32 »
If you do not have any mechanical aptitude background, I would say you have your work cut out for yourself.  I would recommend absorbing anything and everything mechanical from the ASVAB book you have.  After that, get another ASVAB book and do the same.  And then get another book such as the ARCO's Mechanical and Spatial Relations and go through that.  The library can help alot.

The math section will consist of three sections: conversions, simple algebra and word problems.  That means you will be using your addition, subtraction, multiplication and division skills in great quantities and in minimal time.

The EEI practice tests are the same format as the real test, however the real test questions are more difficult.  Your right, dont rely on that alone.  Again, I dont know what your background is but judging from the practice tests, work on your weak areas.

Offline VIPBOY7

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #252 on: Mar 28, 2010, 01:19 »
could you give me some examples of certain things I definitely need to know for the mechanical portion of the exam that you may remember?

mtr1514

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Re: POSS TEST
« Reply #253 on: Mar 28, 2010, 01:56 »
That is true.  I found success here by reading through every POSS related thread.  Do your research and dont expect to be spoon fed here.  It's a tough crowd just like the industry.  Good luck to you!

nred

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POSS Application
« Reply #254 on: Apr 27, 2010, 11:00 »
I have been trying to apply through FPL website for the POSS but I can't find any info on how to apply and be schedule for the poss exam. Can anyone advice me on how to go about it?

Thanks

Offline Creeker

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Re: POSS Application
« Reply #255 on: Apr 27, 2010, 11:06 »
The POSS is only given by a utility when they are looking to hire an individual.  So, if you're scheduled for an interview for a position that required successful completion of the POSS exam as a pre-req for employment, the utility will schedule the POSS coincident with the interview process.  They generally wont expend the time or resources on it otherwise.

Offline shipoffools

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #256 on: Jun 05, 2010, 11:45 »
There's some conflicting info regarding penalties for guessing, leaving questions blank, etc. on the site, so I'll throw out what the test administrator told us prior to taking the exam.  Not saying its gospel truth, but its what the HR person told us. 

No points are deducted for leaving questions blank.  There is a penalty for incorrect responses, although HR did not divulge what the penalty was.  Guessing was encouraged only if options were narrowed down to 50/50.  The exception to the guessing policy was the "parts and assemblies" section - HR indicated that incorrect responses were not penalized in this section only.  HR did not state one way or another if there was a minimum that must be answered per section.   

We were informed of our results in a short face to face a couple days later.  No information was given about test results and performance other than pass or fail. 

As for any test taking tips, I'd suggest getting accustomed to skipping questions and coming back to them if the answer doesn't slap you in the face right away, especially in the math section.  Be careful when leaving questions blank that you don't bubble in the wrong place - one person in our group lost valuable time because of this.  Become familiar with the less common unit conversions on the EEI practice test.  Most of the unit conversion questions can be done in one step, but there are several that require an intermediate conversion.     

Hope this info helps...or at least doesn't muddy the water any further. 

ski2313

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Re: POSS Test
« Reply #257 on: Jul 23, 2010, 03:51 »
I took the POSS a few weeks ago with Dominion.. received a "recommend" grade (just a passing grade). From what I can gather (through this site and operators I know) the test is graded both on accuracy and total number of questions answered. In other words, answering half of the total questions and getting them 100% right could be better than answering every question but only getting 75% correct answers.. To pass you need a certain percent accuracy with a minimum number of questions answered.

Supposedly there are a few different versions of the test. You could wind up with a shortened or extended math section for example that may or may not include algebra.. I studied for a few weeks prior and went into the test with a gameplan.

The plan was to go through each section as fast as possible, and if there was any hesitation on the answer I skipped it immediately and went on to the next question.  Once I got to the end of the section I was always confident that I had answered, accurately, enough questions that I would be able to pass the section without answering any more questions. At that point any test-stress was gone, and I could "leisurely" go back through the test and take my time on the un-answered questions and simply boost the score. Never answer a question if you are not 100% sure of the answer! - and don't waste time trying to answer one question that takes some figuring when you could accurately answer 5 other intuitive questions.

That's about all the advice I have... oh, and memorize as many conversions as possible.. it will save you some time in the math section.

-ski

Offline ncon315

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POSS Reading Comprehension Grading?
« Reply #258 on: Oct 05, 2010, 02:19 »
Hi  I just took the exam and had a question about the reading grading.  There was one or two questions that were a little fuzzy. My question was in the proctor instructions she stated to finish each section before going on to the next.  I planned on coming back to these questions but ran out of time.  Is skipping these questions going to result in not recommended?

Offline UncaBuffalo

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Re: POSS Reading Comprehension Grading?
« Reply #259 on: Oct 06, 2010, 04:43 »
Hi  I just took the exam and had a question about the reading grading.  There was one or two questions that were a little fuzzy. My question was in the proctor instructions she stated to finish each section before going on to the next.  I planned on coming back to these questions but ran out of time.  Is skipping these questions going to result in not recommended?

If you only skipped 2 questions, but got all the others correct, you should be fine.

Good luck!  :)
« Last Edit: Oct 06, 2010, 04:43 by UncaBuffalo »
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Offline Rennhack

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Re: POSS Book Review.
« Reply #260 on: Nov 10, 2010, 03:23 »
Sounds like there is a market for a better study guide.  If some one wants to make one, I'll be happy to post it online for everyone.

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Re: POSS Book Review.
« Reply #261 on: Nov 11, 2010, 10:52 »
A Good study guide sounds like a nice Idea. I have read a lot of the advice on this site and decided to use a ASVAB Study Guide to prepare. Hopefully this will help me succeed at this exam. I think the greatest value in a dedicated study for the POSS in specific would be that when you use a Study Guide designed for a particular test you can feel confident that you are prepared for what to many of us is the most important tests we will take.

Offline 2004blackwrx

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Re: POSS Book Review.
« Reply #262 on: Nov 27, 2010, 05:02 »
I took the POSS Test last week. I just got my results. I was recommended, now its time to prove in an interview that a person with a business degree is who they want to hire.  The book I used to prepare for the test was ASVAB for dummies. I started studying a week before the test. The book was helpfull especially for the math section. For me reteaching myself high school math was the hardest part. The ASVAB book did not have the exact kind of math as on the POSS but it was a good tool for teaching me math and giving myself practice working quickly with my mathematical skills. The ASVAB book also had a mechanical Knowledge section which was somewhat helpful but not exactly like the test. Like many have said mechanical concepts are something you just know. The ASVAB book also let you practice spatial relations skills. The spatial relations in the book were different then the test but I think give your mind exercises with manipulating shapes. The ASVAB book also had reading comprehension practice. I feel that this is straight forward but if you struggle at reading comprehension the book may help. There was no table and graph section in the ASVAB book. When studying, use common sense, look at the POSS practice test to see the exact style questions there are and make sure you can do the level of problems that are on the practice POSS. Use this forum to learn about the test experiences of others. Lastly, if you want more practice which I recommend use google to find problems that match what you want to study. In the end for me my biggest question was whether I answered enough problems to do well.   

jerochan

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Power Plant Operator Apprentice interview - Urgent Help!
« Reply #263 on: Jan 03, 2011, 11:01 »


I got invited to the Power plant operator apprentice interview next week and I wonder how should I prepare for the interview. it seems like there isn't any materials out there to help me prepare for the interview. I knew the interview is combine with written, math and oral interview but that is about it. thanks 

Cycoticpenguin

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Re: Power Plant Operator Apprentice interview - Urgent Help!
« Reply #264 on: Jan 03, 2011, 10:11 »

I got invited to the Power plant operator apprentice interview next week and I wonder how should I prepare for the interview. it seems like there isn't any materials out there to help me prepare for the interview. I knew the interview is combine with written, math and oral interview but that is about it. thanks 

what is an operator apprentice??? Is this for that job in new york? 

this is what happened on my operator interview.

http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,26272.0.html


Grasenrack

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Re: Can you score too high on the POSS test?
« Reply #265 on: Jul 25, 2011, 08:20 »
I asked this exact question when I took the test for a nuclear operator position.  You cannot score too high on the POSS test.

Offline Kakashi86

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #266 on: Aug 12, 2011, 01:37 »
I got contacted by the HR representative for Constellation up in NY- Ontario that they are going to fly me there to take the EEO and PPOS exams next week. I never heard of the EEO exam. I think she meant the EEI POSS exam series. I'm really excited and nervous with only a couple days to study. I also applied to Exelon a while ago and had an interview completed by they didn't want to fly me out to take their exams on short notice. They informed me 2 days prior to the test. Being in Hawaii this would be extremely difficult for me. I wonder with the merger if it will make it easier to transfer the results if Exelon wanted to hire me at Forked River Plant. Either way I'm really excited.
« Last Edit: Aug 12, 2011, 01:41 by Kakashi86 »

my name is.....

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #267 on: Aug 12, 2011, 08:03 »
I got contacted by the HR representative for Constellation up in NY- Ontario that they are going to fly me there to take the EEO and PPOS exams next week. I never heard of the EEO exam. I think she meant the EEI POSS exam series. I'm really excited and nervous with only a couple days to study. I also applied to Exelon a while ago and had an interview completed by they didn't want to fly me out to take their exams on short notice. They informed me 2 days prior to the test. Being in Hawaii this would be extremely difficult for me. I wonder with the merger if it will make it easier to transfer the results if Exelon wanted to hire me at Forked River Plant. Either way I'm really excited.

The transferring of test results is really a non-issue. EEI has all the records and they can be obtained directly from them by the plant/company needing them. I have had five instances where the plant wanting to interview me had already gotten my scores just because I had it listed on my resume. Don't worry about it.

Offline Kakashi86

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #268 on: Aug 17, 2011, 11:31 »
I got everything except 15 on the first tables and 5 on the graph. Other than that I thought it would be worse. Maybe it's due to the prep work prior to. Thank you everyone for the advice. Now for the interview and wait results and maybe a second interview!

Offline Papa Nuc

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #269 on: Aug 17, 2011, 01:51 »
Great news kakashi.  You are getting called in for interviews which is good, what is your prior experience?

Offline Kakashi86

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #270 on: Aug 18, 2011, 10:03 »
just got notified i passed. did the interview, thought it went well. just wait for the call back. EWS, QAI qualified ET submariner. Only have background that the navy has given me. I got asked 2 "bonus" questions about exam security cause i told them about me being the Engineering Department Training Assistant.

Offline Kakashi86

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #271 on: Sep 10, 2011, 05:45 »
I just got called and emailed. we were calling each other basically at the same time. I got offered the position of AO at the Ginna Plant!!!!!

Offline Papa Nuc

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #272 on: Sep 10, 2011, 06:27 »
Great news, good luck with your new career  +K

Offline Higgs

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #273 on: Sep 10, 2011, 09:24 »
Congratulations sir!
"How feeble is the mindset to accept defenselessness. How unnatural. How cheap. How cowardly. How pathetic.” - Ted Nugent

luke7750

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POSS Assembly Questions
« Reply #274 on: Oct 15, 2011, 02:05 »
I just took my poss test and I am waiting to hear the results. I have done alot of searching on this site and it has helped me tremendously on the test. My only concern since there is not a clear answer on grading is about the assembly portion. I answered the ones I new I could get right before tme ran out. The only problem is I only answered 12 out of 20 from what I counted. My question is granted I got all 12 right would this be enough for a passing score in that section? Any replies would be appreciated. Thanks

Offline NoogaTiger

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Re: assembly part of the poss test
« Reply #275 on: Oct 16, 2011, 07:57 »
I hate to sound pessimistic, but that would be 60%.
Doesn't sound too promising.
If you didn't pass though, you have a pretty concrete thing to work on for next time.

luke7750

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Re: assembly part of the poss test
« Reply #276 on: Oct 16, 2011, 09:57 »
Yeah hopefully I miscounted and maybe got more answered. I just tried to count really quick after the lady called time.
I thought the actual test was more difficult than the practice tests other than the math section for me. Maybe I squeezed by. Fingers crossed. I will post when I get the results.

Btw I used a method for taking the test that I read on this forum. If I didn't know the answer rather than guessing I moved on to the problems I knew I could answer correctly and then came back to the other ones if time permitted. Again thanks for everyone who provided me with helpful info on this site.

luke7750

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Re: assembly part of the poss test
« Reply #277 on: Oct 19, 2011, 11:57 »
Well I got an email yesterday telling me based on my poss c test results that I did not meet the requirements. I have a strong feeling it was the assembly portion of the test which I only answered 12 out of 20. If I get another chance in the future I will prepare more and try to make educated guesses for the problems I am unsure about. Also I have noticed that the nuc plants in my area are hiring alot of operation guys. Is there a high turnover rate for these jobs or are they just trying to beef up the work force? any comments would be appreciated. Thanks

MacGyver

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Re: assembly part of the poss test
« Reply #278 on: Oct 20, 2011, 09:10 »
Well I got an email yesterday telling me based on my poss c test results that I did not meet the requirements. I have a strong feeling it was the assembly portion of the test which I only answered 12 out of 20. If I get another chance in the future I will prepare more and try to make educated guesses for the problems I am unsure about. Also I have noticed that the nuc plants in my area are hiring alot of operation guys. Is there a high turnover rate for these jobs or are they just trying to beef up the work force? any comments would be appreciated. Thanks

Both.

Operations operators (Non-Licensed variety / Entry Level) are going to move on to Licensed Operators and into the Plants Craft positions when a position and seniority provide such an opportunity.

Operations departments are beefing up (late) for retirements and for the new work rules implemented just not long ago.

NLO/SO/NEO/AUO/etc is always going to have a higher turnover than any other Plant (i.e. House) jobs.

Offline GLW

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #279 on: Feb 01, 2012, 09:27 »

...A GREAT place to eat is the Angry Bull near Route 2. It's about 35 miles east of the Bess...


I've been living one  mile down the street from the Angry Bull since May 2007, the beef is phenomenal,...

Everything else is average so, go for the beef and be happy you did,...


THEN if you feel like it go to Wellington, Ohio, home of the Mighty Dukes and get some of the best pizza in the US at the Pizza House. And while you're there say hello to my Aunt Carmen for me :)


Six tables in a Main Street storefront two four seaters, one six seater, and three eight seaters. Established in 1966, there is a stamped tin ceiling painted dark brown without a trace of dust to be seen anywhere on that ceiling. The place is as clean as a nunnery.

Good pizza, we went for the mushroom, ham and tomato on a 16" pie, it's a thin crust style. We opted out of the onions as they tend to overwhelm and mask the subtler pleasures of pizza. I love onions on pizza but it's nice to know it was a good pizza before I massacre it with my favorite pizza topping.

Aunt Carmen was not there at 1930 on a Wednesday night, but the staff was nice and service was prompt, the fried raviolas were pleasant and the water was potable which is not all that common in North Central Ohio. We took home a pepperoni calzone for a family member who opted to stay home, a bit smallish by New York pizzeria convention but then all those New York calzones have not helped me maintain my girlish figure over the years either.

The calzone in Wellington is reminiscent of scacciata for those who have enjoyed such.

The stay at home judged the calzone to be good also.

If you're working DB, either restaurant is a good stop while enjoying North-Central Ohio.

(Sure are an awful lot of slate roofs in Wellington, Ohio,...  8) )

been there, dun that,... the doormat to hell does not read "welcome", the doormat to hell reads "it's just business"

Fermi2

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Re: Power Plant Operator Selection System Test - Help!
« Reply #280 on: Feb 02, 2012, 05:35 »
THANKS!!!! :) What you call Thin Crust we Wellingtonians call just plain regular crust! She will be so pleased about what you wrote especially about the cleanliness. Virtually all her help is Local High School kids and she screens them carefully so I'll let her know her process of "If you are rude and inefficient I WILL tell your parents" works!

I know exactly how every bit of that dang slate made it to those roofs!!! One rule of thumb: Apparently slate cannot be carried to a roof unless it is at least 90F with 95% humidity.


mdanner423

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Assembly questions (Yes I've searched!)
« Reply #281 on: Mar 03, 2012, 07:34 »
Hey all,

I am taking the POSS on Tuesday for a utility in the south east. Really excited for the opportunity but am nervous about the Assembly part. It's the only part I had any struggle with during the practice tests and it just doesn't seem to be my cup of tea. I bought the Arco book and some other spatial relations practice books and do think I am improving, but am not doing as well as I want to be doing.

Could you share your strategy for tackling assembly problems? I've been trying the pick two pieces and assemble them correctly in your mind. Now, look at the answer choices and X out any of them were those two pieces don't match, and go from there approach. It does help, but was curious if any of you wise people know another method or an extension to that method to help me out.

Also, I've bought some furniture in box form and put it together and returned it to practice....

--Matthew
« Last Edit: Mar 03, 2012, 07:43 by mdanner423 »

Offline Starkist

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Re: Assembly questions (Yes I've searched!)
« Reply #282 on: Mar 04, 2012, 12:03 »
Sorry, but theres no "trick" to it. The only quasi tricks I can think of is that some of the answers are blatantly wrong, so you can mark them off instantly. Also, I think they do it on purpose, but some of them are flat out difficult to see. If you get stuck on one, MOVE ON! Dont guess, dont spend 5 minutes thinking about it, just skip it. 





Offline ProudFather

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Studing for Mechanical Concepts Section of POSS
« Reply #283 on: Mar 19, 2012, 09:51 »
My son got his results back from his poss test and his (by far) weakest section was mechanical concepts.
He answered all 44 but missed 12 which really shocked him because the really thought he may have done the best on that section.

Any suggestion on how to study for those type questions?

drayer54

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Re: Studing for Mechanical Concepts Section of POSS
« Reply #284 on: Mar 19, 2012, 09:56 »
My son got his results back from his poss test and his (by far) weakest section was mechanical concepts.
He answered all 44 but missed 12 which really shocked him because the really thought he may have done the best on that section.

Any suggestion on how to study for those type questions?


I would argue that you don't study them.

Build up the largest test bank possible with online and published resources and then PRACTICE.

The questions on the POSS are simple, the challenge is time. If you have a large test bank, odds are that you'll be able to practice every type of problem...


Good luck!

Offline ProudFather

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Re: Studing for Mechanical Concepts Section of POSS
« Reply #285 on: Mar 19, 2012, 10:13 »
I can see much value in your comment.  We went over the EEI July 2009 vr. on the 10 hour trip to the test site, which seems to be the most common vr.  Links to other would be a great help!

drayer54

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Re: Studing for Mechanical Concepts Section of POSS
« Reply #286 on: Mar 19, 2012, 10:17 »
I can see much value in your comment.  We went over the EEI July 2009 vr. on the 10 hour trip to the test site, which seems to be the most common vr.  Links to other would be a great help!

This one has some good practice questions and answers. I reviewed it on the flight to my test site. (BTW: 10 hr trip? Something is wrong with that? ::))

Plant Operator Selection System Secrets Study Guide: POSS Test Review for the Plant Operator Selection System

Otherwise, the EEI website or google away!
« Last Edit: Nov 05, 2013, 03:14 by Rennhack »

Offline ProudFather

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Re: Studing for Mechanical Concepts Section of POSS
« Reply #287 on: Mar 19, 2012, 10:29 »
He got an email to on a monday to take the test on a thursday.  Too short of notice to get reasonable flights and we thought it was worth the drive to South Florida to take the test for his first time to be better prepared for the test if offered closer to home.

mdanner423

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Re: Assembly questions (Yes I've searched!)
« Reply #288 on: Mar 30, 2012, 09:36 »
Passed! Waiting to know the results of the interview... Thanks!

--Matthew

Offline UncaBuffalo

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Re: Assembly questions (Yes I've searched!)
« Reply #289 on: Mar 30, 2012, 11:17 »
Passed! Waiting to know the results of the interview... Thanks!

--Matthew

Congrats!  :)
We are plain quiet folk and have no use for adventures. Nasty disturbing uncomfortable things! Make you late for dinner! I can’t think what anybody sees in them.      - B. Baggins

Offline Rennhack

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Re: Assembly questions (Yes I've searched!)
« Reply #290 on: Mar 31, 2012, 03:55 »
Passed! Waiting to know the results of the interview... Thanks!

--Matthew
Congrats!  :)

What he said.

 [salute]

Offline Laundry Man

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Re: Assembly questions (Yes I've searched!)
« Reply #291 on: Mar 31, 2012, 08:42 »
Congratulations!  Hope you get an offer.
LM

newbie99

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POSS test
« Reply #292 on: Jul 24, 2012, 11:49 »
Does anyone know what conversions i should memorize for the POSS...or at least what I should look at the most?

Offline GLW

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #293 on: Jul 24, 2012, 11:55 »
Does anyone know what conversions i should memorize for the POSS...or at least what I should look at the most?

Yeah, first move your cursor over to the Forum tab at the top of the home page at nukeworker.com,...

After the pull down menu appears click on Forum Home,...

Then type "POSS" in the Search field on the right hand side of the Forum Home screen,...

Then click on the Search button,...

You will then get 3 full pages plus of threads, many of which speak directly to your question. If you take the time to read through them you will gain insight on how to proceed, perhaps you could PM a person or two on how they persevered, passed the POSS and landed a job. Who knows how much you can glean with some additional effort on your part?

EJT!!!,... [coffee]

(sic)

been there, dun that,... the doormat to hell does not read "welcome", the doormat to hell reads "it's just business"

newbie99

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #294 on: Jul 24, 2012, 10:11 »
I have looked at most of those threads and didn't see one that answers the question I asked specifically

drayer54

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #295 on: Jul 24, 2012, 10:24 »
I have looked at most of those threads and didn't see one that answers the question I asked specifically
You don't need to memorize any conversions.

You do need to be familiar with them and know how to convert units.

Good Luck

Offline eaton1981

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #296 on: Jul 25, 2012, 02:18 »
Unless you can memorize all of those conversions COLD, don't worry about it. Practice using the chart given on the practice tests to answer the questions.

For example...on my test I had a question that needed a conversion from pints to gallons. I have a very strong memory in my head that there are 8 pints in a gallon. But, I've had that rattling in my head since I was 11 years old and I use that conversion quite a bit (about once every week or two).

On the other hand, something like acres to square feet I never use.

In my opinion, it's faster to just glance at the chart, get the conversion you need, then do the math. Wasting time trying to remember rarely-used conversions will cause to to not finish all the questions, even if you go into the test THINKING you have them all memorized. You'll find that using your memory (unless you're one of those savants that just have the conversions so deeply ingrained in your memory that it's second nature), will cause you to lose a lot of time.

Offline cheme09

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #297 on: Jul 25, 2012, 09:10 »
The only one I think might be helpful is knowing how to go from degrees to radians.  But that might be more for the BMST and not the POSS; I don't really remember which test I used it on.

newbie99

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #298 on: Jul 26, 2012, 10:18 »
Well I know how to use degrees to radians I used that quite often in school...and I have basic conversions memorized....but was lookin on practice test on eei website and never heard of chains and some other ones...on the actually poss are the conversions basic or ones that are unheard of...and I prefer to memorize as much as I can so I save time cause I read that someone gets 7 minutes for 20 convertions...and I was also reading about it on here that to pass I would only need to get 11 qurstions right in every section...is that correct or am I missing something?

Offline cheme09

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Re: POSS test
« Reply #299 on: Jul 27, 2012, 08:21 »
but was lookin on practice test on eei website and never heard of chains and some other ones

Then you should have also seen the small box of conversions that is given on the test.  No need to memorize.  Just do the ones you know how to do or can do easily first then come back and do the ones that take a few steps.  It's all about being comfortable and quick with simple math and having basic test taking skills.

As for converting temperature to area, don't worry about that.  That's more advanced than the POSS.  If you make it as an NLO though, be sure to ask questions to the instructors about it early so you can show your initiative and desire to succeed.   ;D

Offline DontGoToNPTU

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Finally taking the POSS for the first time
« Reply #300 on: Aug 29, 2012, 11:10 »
After doing the EEI practice test about every 3 - 6 months for the past three years or so(had to let the questions get out of my memory) I am finally taking the test tomorrow. The only section that worries me is the Math. I'm really good at doing math in my head when it's only integers, but decimals kill me! Anyways here it goes!

Josh

P.S. The reason I haven't taken it in that time frame is becaused I'm was waiting for the Navy to rleease their grip.

Offline eaton1981

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Re: Finally taking the POSS for the first time
« Reply #301 on: Aug 30, 2012, 04:54 »
You'll do just fine. Be as accurate yet quick as possible. Don't feel bad if you don't finish all sections. It took six weeks for me to get my results back.

Offline DontGoToNPTU

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Re: Finally taking the POSS for the first time
« Reply #302 on: Sep 05, 2012, 05:40 »
Recommended :D

Offline UncaBuffalo

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Re: Finally taking the POSS for the first time
« Reply #303 on: Sep 06, 2012, 12:46 »
We are plain quiet folk and have no use for adventures. Nasty disturbing uncomfortable things! Make you late for dinner! I can’t think what anybody sees in them.      - B. Baggins

Offline eaton1981

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Re: Finally taking the POSS for the first time
« Reply #304 on: Sep 06, 2012, 09:00 »
Big surprise. Did you get a call back with a job offer yet?

Offline DontGoToNPTU

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Re: Finally taking the POSS for the first time
« Reply #305 on: Sep 07, 2012, 10:06 »
They were interviewing more people this past week and I believe next week too. When I was there I found out that they want to start the NLO class later this year and I don't get out until early next year. They did however say they would like me to come back at some point for an SRO interview.

Offline sawalke4

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Working math section on the POSS
« Reply #306 on: Jan 31, 2013, 06:11 »
Is it allowed to take in scrap paper to do calculations on the POSS test for FPL? Or is it required to do all the math in your head? I write in large letters and was thinking about taking a few extra sheets with me for calculations. Also, can you use a ruler for the graphs portion of the test? Thanks!

Willy

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Re: Working math section on the POSS
« Reply #307 on: Jan 31, 2013, 06:23 »
They will provide you with scrap paper and no you can not bring in a ruler, but you can use your scrap paper as a ruler.

ski2313

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Re: Working math section on the POSS
« Reply #308 on: Jan 31, 2013, 07:26 »
They will give you scrap paper, which you will have to turn in at the end of the exam.

Also, a piece of scrap paper makes for a nice straight edge for graph purposes.


Offline sawalke4

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Re: Working math section on the POSS
« Reply #309 on: Jan 31, 2013, 09:20 »
Thanks guys. how much time do they give you for each question?

Offline reactoroperator74

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POSS TEST 2012-13
« Reply #310 on: Mar 25, 2013, 10:13 »
Hey everyone.

I am a former Nuke ET with a ton of operating experience and training experience. I took the BSMT/POSS at Byron back in JAN 2013. I was recommended on the BSMT but NOT the POSS. I talked to everyone in my testing class and they didn't come close to finishing as much as I did on the POSS. Does anyone have any advice b/c I am lost on how to pass a test for something I more than prepared for and a job I did for over 8 years.


Offline HydroDave63

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Re: POSS TEST 2012-13
« Reply #311 on: Mar 25, 2013, 10:23 »
Hey everyone.

I am a former Nuke ET with a ton of operating experience and training experience. I took the BSMT/POSS at Byron back in JAN 2013. I was recommended on the BSMT but NOT the POSS. I talked to everyone in my testing class and they didn't come close to finishing as much as I did on the POSS. Does anyone have any advice b/c I am lost on how to pass a test for something I more than prepared for and a job I did for over 8 years.

Hard to know where to start on your test preparations and test technique. When you searched the Forum search box, what results did you find? (or click under Reagan now)
« Last Edit: Mar 26, 2013, 06:14 by HydroDave63 »

MacGyver

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Re: POSS TEST 2012-13
« Reply #312 on: Mar 25, 2013, 11:26 »
Hey everyone.

I am a former Nuke ET with a ton of operating experience and training experience. I took the BSMT/POSS at Byron back in JAN 2013. I was recommended on the BSMT but NOT the POSS. I talked to everyone in my testing class and they didn't come close to finishing as much as I did on the POSS. Does anyone have any advice b/c I am lost on how to pass a test for something I more than prepared for and a job I did for over 8 years.



Uhhhhhh,,, I hate to point out the obvious BUT apparently not.

Now, to give you some credit you have been doing something very similar.  But your past means very little.  It's a reference point of your past success and a job reference.  Nothing more.

I recommend you spend some time reviewing our EEI POSS/MASS testing area.

If I had to guess.  It would be my opinion you failed to complete enough questions with answers in one section.  This would cause a failure since they require a certain number to be answered for that section to be scored.

ski2313

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Re: POSS TEST 2012-13
« Reply #313 on: Mar 26, 2013, 05:42 »
and they didn't come close to finishing as much as I did on the POSS.

...but how was your accuracy?


Offline Phillip3364

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Re: POSS TEST 2012-13
« Reply #314 on: Mar 26, 2013, 10:40 »
Well I must have come close to doing as much as you since I was recommended on both   ;)

Offline Stiddmeista

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Re: POSS TEST 2012-13
« Reply #315 on: Apr 11, 2013, 12:37 »
Im guessing your accuracy wasn't as good as you think.  When I took the test I didnt answer 10 questions(5 in math, 5 in tables and graphs) but I was able to answer most correctly.  My advice is to go over the practice tests and look in an ASVAB study guide.  In my experience not much of what they test on is related to past work experience.  They don't care what you used to do, they care what you know and can do now.

Offline WARDEVIL_UFO

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POSS - ASSEMBLY HELP NEEDED
« Reply #316 on: Jun 12, 2013, 08:56 »
I have a POSS test to take on Friday.  I have taken about 10 or 11 practice tests that I can find online. I feel confident about Tables, graphs, Mechanical reasoning, reading comprehension, and Mathematics.  On the Assembly questions, I am lucky to get 5/9 correct, and I usually get closer to 4 problems correct.  I have exhausted all the practice tests that I can find, and I don't think I am going to pass because of the Assembly problems.  Is there any tips, suggests, or ideas that can be offered?  Any other practice test sources? 


Offline daphneblue

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Nuclear (POSS-DC) vs. Fossil/Hydro (POSS-PP)
« Reply #318 on: Jun 15, 2013, 03:15 »
I recently took the POSS and IST test for a nuclear operator position. 

I received two emails from the HR department.  The first stated "you received a qualifying score on the Industrial Skills Test (IST)".  Great!

The second email stated "you received a qualifying score on the Plant Operator Selection System test for Nuclear (POSS-DC)".  Also great, but then came a second paragraph that stated "You did not receive a qualifying (passing) score on the Plant Operator Selection System test for Fossil/Hydro (POSS-PP)".

So my question is:  Was the POSS test set up to be two tests? or were these two separate tests and because I did not take the POSS-PP test it sent out a generic fail message.

My second question is:  Can I fail the POSS-PP for Fossil/Hydro and still be considered for a nuclear operator position? or is it all or nothing?

I've searched the internet thoroughly and can't find any information about POSS-DC or POSS-PP, everything just talks about the POSS in general.

I also sent an email to the HR department to find out if I am still eligible, so as not to be waiting for a phone call that will never come.

Any insights or comments appreciated and thanks in advance for responding.

Offline HydroDave63

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Re: Nuclear (POSS-DC) vs. Fossil/Hydro (POSS-PP)
« Reply #319 on: Jun 15, 2013, 09:18 »
I recently took the POSS and IST test for a nuclear operator position. 

I received two emails from the HR department.  The first stated "you received a qualifying score on the Industrial Skills Test (IST)".  Great!

The second email stated "you received a qualifying score on the Plant Operator Selection System test for Nuclear (POSS-DC)".  Also great, but then came a second paragraph that stated "You did not receive a qualifying (passing) score on the Plant Operator Selection System test for Fossil/Hydro (POSS-PP)".

So my question is:  Was the POSS test set up to be two tests? or were these two separate tests and because I did not take the POSS-PP test it sent out a generic fail message.

My second question is:  Can I fail the POSS-PP for Fossil/Hydro and still be considered for a nuclear operator position? or is it all or nothing?

I've searched the internet thoroughly and can't find any information about POSS-DC or POSS-PP, everything just talks about the POSS in general.

I also sent an email to the HR department to find out if I am still eligible, so as not to be waiting for a phone call that will never come.

Any insights or comments appreciated and thanks in advance for responding.

Here at POSSworker.com, the requirement of high POSS scores vs. fossil has been discussed previously...

http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,36539.msg173355.html#msg173355

Offline NukeTheWhales

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Need to take a POSS test in Ca. for a job in Co.
« Reply #320 on: Jul 09, 2013, 05:48 »
I live in Southern California and need to take the POSS test for a plant in Colorado. I called Southern California Edison to see if I was able to take it with them because they are my former employer. They said that since the position isn't with SCE they couldn't help me. Fair enough. Are there any independent places in Southern California that offer EEI testing for free/money? It would be a lot easier than flying to Colorado for 2 days just for a test. Thanks!

Offline mtb1989

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #321 on: Feb 03, 2014, 09:30 »
Hello forum,
I am studying for an upcoming POSS in a couple weeks. I've spent hours poring over these forums and have gotten a good idea what to expect. However, not time.
Based on the number of questions and the time they say it should take, the EEI practice tests give:
Tables and Graphs section: 7.5s per question.
Mechanical Concepts: 30s per question
Assembly: 33s per question
Mathematical usage: 22s per question
Reading Comprehension:  60s per question.

Does that sound right?

My EEI practice test benchmark:
Tables and Graphs section: 10.5s per question, 17/24 answered, 17 correct.
Mechanical Concepts: 13s per question, all 26 answered, all correct.
Assembly: 26s per question, all 9 answered, all correct.
Mathematical usage: 44s per question, 17/38 answered, some wrong.
Reading Comprehension: 41s per question, all 23 answered, 21 correct.

I have found for the math section there is no time to write the problems out on paper. It seems they must be done in the head.
For the math part I picked up my old elementary algebra book to run through some problems.
AND:
Looking at buying this book:
http://www.amazon.com/Mechanical-Aptitude-Spatial-Relations-Edition/dp/0768907098/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A15K129XZ1GW4J
Doing relevant practice exams:
http://official-asvab.com/

What else am I missing? What else should I do/be aware of? The speed required in the math section is really killing me. Tips? I also read the real exam is much harder than the practice tests. Is that true?

Thanks guys!
P.S. I'm taking it for an OPS job at a nuke plant.

Offline spitzer235

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #322 on: Mar 19, 2014, 01:32 »
I just wanted to take a moment and thank all of the posters here who have imparted such good advice and study tips. I had taken the POSS B about 7 years ago when I started with Duke Energy as an operator but was required to take a POSS C to qualify for a relocation position within the company. Ive always been a good test taker and standardized tests really never have caused many any great concern, but my wife and I very much wanted this relocation deal so it kinda added an additional level of stress to the mix. But after trolling this site and absorbing all of the great study tips and resources available here it made the test a breeze. I concur with everything that has been said on these pages work quickly but work accurately much better to submit 100% correct answers and not quite finish than to rush through and hope they were correct. If anyone is taking this test in the near future feel free to PM me and ill be glad to offer any insights I had on the test. Thanks Again guys you are truly TOPSHELF
« Last Edit: Mar 19, 2014, 01:40 by spitzer235 »

Offline Marlin

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #323 on: Mar 19, 2014, 02:49 »
I just wanted to take a moment and thank all of the posters here who have imparted such good advice and study tips. I had taken the POSS B about 7 years ago when I started with Duke Energy as an operator but was required to take a POSS C to qualify for a relocation position within the company. Ive always been a good test taker and standardized tests really never have caused many any great concern, but my wife and I very much wanted this relocation deal so it kinda added an additional level of stress to the mix. But after trolling this site and absorbing all of the great study tips and resources available here it made the test a breeze. I concur with everything that has been said on these pages work quickly but work accurately much better to submit 100% correct answers and not quite finish than to rush through and hope they were correct. If anyone is taking this test in the near future feel free to PM me and ill be glad to offer any insights I had on the test. Thanks Again guys you are truly TOPSHELF

Thanks for the feedback  +K

Offline needanukecareer

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #324 on: Apr 11, 2014, 10:14 »
Hi all.

This is my first post. I've been a lurker here for several weeks. I just took the POSS-C for the first time and I passed. I would like to share a few things of note that helped me. Not only my approach, but also some observations.

First observation: The ASVAB is definitely a useful study tool. However, I think it could be more of a teaching tool for a very important lesson. That lesson is: The POSS test isn't for everyone. If you are struggling with the ASVAB and the general guidelines for taking the ASVAB, i. e., the time allotment, etc, you will struggle with the POSS. The questions are roughly the same. The time allowance for the POSS is miniscule in relation to the ASVAB.

Second observation: Statistics regarding the POSS test are somewhat scarce, but it seems that the pass rate is somewhere in the neighborhood of 15-20%.  Understand that the odds are stacked against you, but they can be overcome. 

Third observation: Due to statistics, only a certain type of person, or a certain way of thinking, which is likely directly related to the type of person, will pass the test. I may be wrong, but, that's what statistics are for.

In summary, one can study, follow a routine, consistently meet smaller time allowances during practice, and a whole host of other strategies. But, if you start your practice and you are way off base, not to be crude, just honest, the POSS test may not be for you.

I believe anyone can work to diminish certain weaknesses, but if the basics evade you, the POSS will be very difficult due to the small time allowances and unknown expectations for correct answers vs. incorrect answers.

Understand that it is very likely that most people in the test session can answer most of the questions with enough time. But, time is of the essence when taking the test. If you're not answering the questions on the ASVAB or EEI POSS practice test, the POSS will test you to your limits and your success is not likely.

Also, the stress level is much higher in the POSS testing session. It's your career on the line. It hinges on you passing that test, because without passing the test, you have no chance at an interview. Simply, there is a lot at stake.

So, a bit about my approach.
I bought an ASVAB study guide. Quite honestly, it was of little import to me. I could answer question after question well under the time standards. I took the second test and I completed it in about half of the time allotment. At that point, I said, "well, I can easily nail the majority of the questions," so I stopped.

I started with the assembly/ spatial relations section of the test. I thought that would be the section that got me if any module would. So, I got an idea: I went to my garage, turned my radio up as loud as I could, and started the assembly part of the test. I thought, if I can do this with the distraction of the music and fight the urge to not sing every song, I could think the song and solve the problems with an occupied mind, I could do it in the silence of the testing session. It must have worked.

I walked into the testing session extremely confident. I have always thrived under pressure. I don't know if it's because of athletics or growing up with a dad who always reminded me that my best was never good enough. I looked the room over to get an idea of who was a bit nervous, who was about to pee their pants, who already had, who had a bad poker face, and who was for real. Before the test began, the tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. After I stated the fact, the bad poker faces melted. At that point, I was thriving. I felt confident that many were defeated before the test began. I don't mean that I didn't want them to do well also. I had an understanding, or at least a belief that only certain types of people will pass this test. I felt like I would, and I rode that confidence from start to finish.

I hope this can help others do the same. I do not mean this to discourage anyone. This is purely opinion with hopefully some good advice to someone inside.

Now, off to the interview...     

I hope someone will find this useful. I hope that it does not discourage anyone, but   

Offline needanukecareer

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #325 on: Apr 11, 2014, 10:21 »
I forgot to add...

I worked to answer at least 75% of the questions, 100% correct. I don't know if I actually met that goal, or even exceeded. But, the main objective  was attained. One small step at a time.

Offline MMM

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #326 on: Apr 20, 2014, 02:20 »
Here's how I studied for the POSS exam:
Printed out the practice exams (there are links on this site and most plant sites with login info).
Took one a day (changed the exam each day) until I could successfully complete each exam with >80% correct answers.

Personally, it wasn't really about studying, it was more for the test taking strategies, as some of the tests you have very little time on so you need to walk in with a plan to answer questions quickly with a lot of accuracy. The questions themselves weren't hard though.

The BMST (Exelon only) was a little different. Again, printed the practice exam, took it and then went online to figure out how to answer the questions I didn't know how to do. This was a lot less time intensive, but did require actually working out answers.

Offline needanukecareer

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #327 on: May 07, 2014, 05:51 »
I know that this is not exactly where this goes, but since it is in support of my prior responses, I thought I would add this. I took the POSS C test on a Thursday. I was informed that I had passed the test on Friday. Three days later, on Monday, I was offered an interview on  the Wednesday of that week. The following Friday, I received a phone call with an offer and a written offer. I accepted. I start the week after next. I'm looking forward to my start date and cannot wait to start a nuke career. I wish the best for those who read the wealth of information within the forums. If anyone is looking into a career in nuclear energy/power, I would suggest spending much time reading and less time posting. It's kind of like my dad telling me as a kid, "be quiet son. More listening, less talking. You might learn something".

Offline GLW

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #328 on: May 08, 2014, 09:23 »
..... You might learn something".

Came to talk about the after POSS.

They got a building down at the nuke site, it's called FFD, where you walk in, you get injected, inspected, detected, infected, neglected and selected.
I went down to get my physical examination one day, and I walked in, I sat down, got good and drunk the night before, so
I looked and felt my best when I went in that morning.
`Cause I wanted to look like the all-American kid from New York City, man I wanted, I wanted to feel like the all-, I wanted to be the all American kid from New York, and I walked in, sat down,
I was hung down, brung down, hung up, and all kinds o' mean nasty ugly things.
And I walked in and sat down and they gave me a piece of paper, and said,...

"Kid, see the Broadzilla, room 604."

And I went up there, I said, "Broad, I want to SCRAM.
I mean, I wanna, I wanna SCRAM.  SCRAM!
I wanna, I wanna see, I wanna see steam and ice and big fat cables in my teeth.
Eat dead burnt twinkies.
I mean SCRAM, SCRAM, SCRAM, SCRAM!"
And I started jumpin up and down yelling, "SCRAM, SCRAM," and the Broadzilla started jumpin up and down with me and we was both jumping up and down yelling, "SCRAM, SCRAM."
And the VP came over, pinned a red badge on me, sent me down the hall and said,.......... "You're our boy."

congratulations,... 8)
« Last Edit: May 09, 2014, 06:16 by GLW »

been there, dun that,... the doormat to hell does not read "welcome", the doormat to hell reads "it's just business"

Offline needanukecareer

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #329 on: May 10, 2014, 02:50 »
GLW, I haven't gotten to that point yet. I don't drink, I've never been to New York City. I've been a farm kid my whole life. But, thanks to your post, I'm invigorated. I had an idea of what SCRAM meant, but now I know a bit more. Thanks for the unbelievable story telling ability and the foreshadowing of the days ahead. And thanks for the congratulations!

Offline GLW

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #330 on: May 10, 2014, 09:25 »
GLW, I haven't gotten to that point yet. I don't drink, I've never been to New York City.....

Was 1967 so long ago?!?!?!?

seems so,...

...I don't drink, I've never been to New York City. I've been a farm kid my whole life.....

it's all fine and dandy,...

you're a better poster child for nuke power today than many of the pre-FFD holdovers from 1967 would be nowadays anyways,...

.......And thanks for the congratulations!

your welcome,...

work hard,....

keep your head on a swivel,...

buy a fishing boat when you can,...

it's a great stress reliever (the fishing that is, the boat can make it worse if you let it),...

 8)

been there, dun that,... the doormat to hell does not read "welcome", the doormat to hell reads "it's just business"

Offline needanukecareer

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #331 on: May 10, 2014, 10:19 »
GLW, thanks again for the input. Boats are fine, but they are better when they are someone else's responsibility.  I was always told boat stands for "break out another thousand"...but I've never had a boat. Come to think if it, I love to fish. Will a jon boat suffice?

I'm much more of a hunter than a fisherman. I love bowhunting.
And I don't know that '67 was so long ago, but it was prior to my hatching.

And yes sir, I will work hard, it's all I've ever known. If it's any consolation, my hands look as if they have been working hard since '67(roughly) so I'm told, but the rest of me looks a good deal younger.

Thankfully, I was born with a fair amount of intelligence, an iron will, and desire to succeed.
I was taught the value of a strong work ethic and how to best utilize the tools you had available. Now I'm ready to use those tools to provide for my family and provide them with a great opportunity and try and teach my child how to earn a good life and not expect things to be given to you.(That seems common today).

So, thanks again for the quality input.

Finally, I've never been to New York City. I've been across the Tappansee Bridge. I've seen the city from a distance. But, I've been a die-hard Yankees fan since I was a young pup. Thanks to Don Mattingly. Never got to see Thurmond Munson, but I can say that Brett Gardner was 0 for his high school career against me. Go Yankees!

(May have just ruffled some feathers)

Offline sandcw13

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #332 on: May 30, 2014, 05:16 »
Hey everyone this is my first time posting to the site and I just wanted to add my experience in case anyone else was like me and looking for help when it was too late. I recently took the POSS for ENW in Washington. This is their first time administering the test and they will continue to do it from now on when they hire operators from my understanding. Theirs was a little different because they interviewed everyone the day after they would take the exam before ever getting the results back so you would interview and then, if you failed, how you did on the interview wouldn't matter. Anyways! Ok so I had taken the test before in Maryland a few years ago and didn't remember it being difficult at all so I didn't study or anything and figured I would breeze through it. Wrong! Well I don't know exactly how I did but I know when I finished I was not confident. I only finished about 2/3 of the graphs section and didn't even finish 2/3 of the math section. After taking test is when I started searching for what it took to pass the test and reading the posts on here. Let me start by saying luckily I passed still so now I am waiting to hear if I get a job offer. So if you have taken it and are freaking out because you only finished about 2/3 of the math or graphs section, calm down, as long as your answers were accurate you should be fine. Here are my tips tho for the exam.

1. Study for it! There are plenty of post on here with links to study guides. The math section is pretty simple algebra (5x+3=13 find x) and conversions. What you really need to look at is mechanical because it is either you know it or you don't, and the assemblies. They will twist the pictures around making it harder to figure out which answer is correct. Make sure you time yourself when you study as well. Nothing on this exam is hard, its just hard to finish. You want to be able to answer as quick as possible.
2. When taking the math section, if you can't immediately answer it, move on to the next then go back. I didn't even get to the 3rd page because I answered 1 by 1 using scratch paper when needed. As I said I still passed so its not like you will fail if you do it this way, but the goal is to get as many correct answers as you can. Page 3 had a bunch of easy problems on it I could have answered quickly if I would have just skipped the ones I used scratch paper for.

As long as you do those two things you should be fine. Good luck to all of you and I hope this might ease the stress level of some of you who might be waiting results scared because of how much you left blank on the exam.
« Last Edit: May 30, 2014, 05:21 by sandcw13 »

EFD307

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #333 on: Oct 07, 2014, 09:38 »
I am scheduled to take the POSS in a little over a week. I was given two weeks notice and told I would be emailed study material 8 days before the test(today, have yet to receive them). I took the practice test allowing myself the posted times and got the following results.

math answered 30/38 and got 28/30 answered correct ~ 93% of answered questions
assembly 9/9 100% with a few seconds (~20) to spare.
reading comp answered all of them but got 21/23 correct (~91%)had ample time left over and I know what to look for in the future to make sure I get them all right.
Tables and graphs I only answered 15/24 on the first sections and 10/14 on the second section. On both sections all the ones I answered were correct.
Mechanical concepts I got 26/26 100% with like 10 mins to spare ( bachelors in physics helped a bit here  8))

So now I'm trying to get my math and charts time down. I wasted a lot of time on the math section doing conversions, with the advice from forum posts I can probably squeeze a few more questions and with some practice on the graphs and charts I'm hoping I can get my time down.

My problem now is trying to find more practice exams all the links I have found have lead me to the EEI site. Are there additional free practice tests found online? I did buy a couple books(a barrons book and the POSS secrets book) which should come in the mail today, I want to prepare in any way I can.

Offline cheme09

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #334 on: Oct 07, 2014, 08:45 »
go get an ASVAB practice book. pretty much the same stuff.


Offline gzeiger

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #336 on: Dec 30, 2014, 11:07 »
I know that this is not exactly where this goes, but since it is in support of my prior responses, I thought I would add this. I took the POSS C test on a Thursday. I was informed that I had passed the test on Friday. Three days later, on Monday, I was offered an interview on  the Wednesday of that week. The following Friday, I received a phone call with an offer and a written offer. I accepted. I start the week after next. I'm looking forward to my start date and cannot wait to start a nuke career.

Can anyone shed some light on this compressed schedule? This has been typical of the postings I've gotten calls for, and it effectively rules out some applicants who would need to relocate. Why not give a little more notice when you're asking people to buy plane tickets and take time off work? I had to turn down three opportunities to test because sometimes you just can't get a military leave request approved on two days' notice. Maybe you have tons of good applicants all the time, but surely some marginal improvement is still possible.

I did find a job, and don't want to sound like I'm complaining, but I'm really curious what the reasons are.

Offline HydroDave63

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #337 on: Dec 30, 2014, 11:39 »
I did find a job, and don't want to sound like I'm complaining, but I'm really curious what the reasons are.

Usually to fit the HR or Ops management calendars. There will always be enough warm bodies to show up on the schedule dates, take the tests, interview and process in. Someone didn't make the schedule, who is the next name on the list. Been this way forever, so why change now?  ;)

Bigmo6967

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #338 on: Dec 30, 2014, 02:53 »
On the flip side I was given a wide window over the course of a week and a half with several testing dates and locations to chose from. After the test it took almost a week to get the results back saying I passed. That was on December 17th and I really do not expect a offer for an interview (if I get one) until after the holidays.

Offline Laundry Man

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #339 on: Dec 31, 2014, 08:40 »
Happened to me once.  Got a call can you be in AZ Monday? (this was on a Friday).  Didn't make it.  Still wish I could have.
LM

Willy

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #340 on: Dec 31, 2014, 02:30 »
I tested and interviewed the beginning of the month and on site three weeks later when I was hired.  I was given a week to prepare.   

Offline ozmon

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #341 on: Feb 08, 2015, 09:27 »
whats the difference between the POSS B and the POSS C test?

Offline ddickey

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #342 on: Feb 08, 2015, 10:42 »
whats the difference between the POSS B and the POSS C test?
I believe it has to do with the passing score. POSS C's passing score is set higher than B. I could have that backwards though.

Offline Lethological

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #343 on: Mar 07, 2015, 07:18 »
Hello all,

I've been reading these forums to prepare for the POSS exam I'm taking in two days.  I've done several practice tests, and the only section I'm having a hard time with is the math section.  Seems like the math is the hardest section for just about everyone due to time constraints.  This is the first practice exam in which I'm studying the answer key to figure out exactly how each answer was solved for.  I came across one question that isn't "adding up"...

"A pyramid with a square base has a volume of 4,800,000 cubic feet.  If its height is 160 feet, how long is each side of the base?
a. 100
b. 120
c. 150
d. 160
e. none

I came up with 300 after using the formula V=[(area base x height)]/3.  Since it didn't match any of the answers, I chose E.  The answer key says it's actually 100.  I call BS.  The way they solve for the answer is as follows:

"A: The formula for the volume of a pyramid is (base area x height)/3.  For a square base, this formula becomes [(side length)^2 x height]/3.  Plugging in the numbers from the questions gives us [(side length)^2 x 160]/3 = 4,800,000.  Multiply by 3 and divide by 160 to get s^2=10,000.  Take the square root of both sides to find the side length = 100ft."

Where I believe it's wrong is when it says "Multiply by 3 and divide by 160 to get s^2=10,000."  I get 90,000... not 10,000.  Either I'm missing something obvious, or they've provided an inaccurate answer to a practice POSS test question.  I would like some consensus before making a determination.  I know some people are going to say "you're wasting time analyzing these questions when you can be studying more", and touche.  What makes me really angry is the fact that there are practice POSS tests floating around that have wrong answers listed as, well, answers.  I was racking my brain trying to figure out how I got the question wrong.  Maybe it is wrong and I missed something obvious, like I said before...  I'll gladly be upgraded if that turns out to be the case.  What do you guys think?  Wrong answer in the answer key, or was something obvious missed?

Offline HydroDave63

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #344 on: Mar 07, 2015, 09:34 »
Key was wrong. You were right. Don't get wrapped around the axle, just verify and move on.

Offline Lethological

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #345 on: Mar 08, 2015, 09:05 »
Thanks.  Didn't want to obsess over minute details, but this brings up another point.  Not all of the practice POSS exams have the same amount of attention to detail dedicated to them whenever they are written.  For what it's worth, the practice exams made available on this forum have been spot-on. 

In any case, wrong answer key or not, I've gone from ~60% completion in the allotted time on the math portion to ~85% completion by taking several practice exams and studying the keys.  The practice exams are a great tool to prepare for the real thing, and I finally feel as if I can walk in there with no worries.  For anyone else trying to prepare, I would highly recommend simply taking the practice exams a few times and studying the keys.  If you learn how to get the answer, the method in which to do so isn't going to be drastically different on the real exam. 

Offline Lethological

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #346 on: Mar 10, 2015, 09:54 »
Well, I did the complete opposite of what I expected.  I did really well in the interview, but struggled a bit on the POSS.  The plant that I applied at interviewed everyone that was there; some people actually had their interviews before they took the POSS.

The POSS I took was the POSS-C.  From my understanding, there's an A, B and C.  Someone in these forums stated that the POSS-C had the highest score requirement.  I don't know if that's true or not, but I will say that the POSS-C was considerably more difficult than any practice exam I took.  I only completed 15/20 assembly questions, and I only completed 33/44 mechanical concepts questions.  The types of questions they were asking on mechanical concepts was almost nothing like what I saw on the practice tests.  There were a LOT of fluid flow questions... I was a nuke ET.  It seems as if mechanics would have a leg up on the competition here.  The rest of the sections weren't so bad; I completed all of the reading questions, 80% of tables, 80% of graphs, and 80% of the math.  The math was the long math portion.  Something I didn't consider was that the answers need to be bubbled in.  That in and of itself takes time, so if you're timing yourself on the practice tests, chances are you WILL complete fewer questions just due to the fact that you have to bubble in all of your answers. 

I have to wait until Friday to know my results.  I'm not 100% confident that I passed, but I know I got the majority of questions in each section right.  It depends on how many I needed to complete in each section, really.  I asked how long the results are good for, and the test supervisor told me that it's a "forever test".  If I wanted to apply at another plant 15 years down the road, I should be able to just fill out a release form so that the plant I'm applying at receives the results from the old plant.  I take it that different plants have different standards, since I remember reading some people having to re-take the POSS just because they were going to a different plant.

Offline Lethological

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #347 on: Mar 13, 2015, 02:28 »
Well, it's Friday, and still no word.  I've seen some people on here get their results in a couple of days, and for others it's taken over a week.  I was told the results would be ready "by the end of the week", and that was Monday.  I'm just a little impatient, it seems  :-X

Offline MMM

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #348 on: Mar 15, 2015, 06:55 »
I recommend shooting the HR rep an email tomorrow as a reminder.

Offline Lethological

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #349 on: Mar 18, 2015, 10:18 »
Well, I received the results today...

I passed!  What a relief!  ;D ;D Now to wait and see if I get an offer or not.  My interview went extremely well, so I'm hoping that translates to an offer.

As a side note, I'd like to give a huge thanks to the users and the admins at nukeworker.  There are a lot of good resources here, and I may not have made it beyond the POSS had it not been for this forum. 

Offline Marlin

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #350 on: Mar 19, 2015, 10:26 »
Well, I received the results today...

I passed!  What a relief!  ;D ;D Now to wait and see if I get an offer or not.  My interview went extremely well, so I'm hoping that translates to an offer.

As a side note, I'd like to give a huge thanks to the users and the admins at nukeworker.  There are a lot of good resources here, and I may not have made it beyond the POSS had it not been for this forum. 

Congrats  +K

newbie0871

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #351 on: Jun 07, 2015, 05:26 »
Kinda New to the forums and just wandering anybody in the Power Plant operator field and if they passed the POSS test since I see the posting is around 2005?
Is anybody currently working in the coal field also?
I recently took a certificate and curious how hard and success rate of people getting into this job.



Thanks

Offline HydroDave63

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #352 on: Jun 07, 2015, 05:58 »
1 Kinda New to the forums and just wandering anybody in the Power Plant operator field and if they passed the POSS test since I see the posting is around 2005?

2 Is anybody currently working in the coal field also?

3 I recently took a certificate and curious how hard and success rate of people getting into this job.

1. The most recent posting of a passing POSS test taker was 3/18/2015.

2. This is not AnthraciteWorker.com

3. Which certificate? Which job? Can you be a little more specific?

newbie0871

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #353 on: Jun 07, 2015, 07:11 »
I got a steam plant certificate.

Looking into the coal fire plants and the POSS test the information on the site looks great so far






Offline RDTroja

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #354 on: Jun 07, 2015, 07:18 »
2. This is not AnthraciteWorker.com

Apparently there is at least one 'redundant' poster that thinks it is...
"I won't eat anything that has intelligent life, but I'd gladly eat a network executive or a politician."

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"Politics is supposed to be the second-oldest profession. I have come to understand that it bears a very close resemblance to the first."
                                  -Ronald Reagan

I have never made but one prayer to God, a very short one: 'O Lord, make my enemies ridiculous.' And God granted it.

                                  - Voltaire

Chimera

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #355 on: Jun 07, 2015, 07:36 »
Apparently there is at least one 'redundant' poster that thinks it is...

Come on, man . . . there just aren't that many sites that have the wealth of information that can be easily found on this site.  A POSS test is a POSS test regardless of the plant that's administering it.

newbie0871

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #356 on: Jun 07, 2015, 07:44 »
I might have to get something like
Arco Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations Tests, Fifth Edition

I just want to be successful and willing to put the hard work in to see the goal.

Offline ddickey

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #357 on: Jun 08, 2015, 06:28 »
I got a steam plant certificate.

Looking into the coal fire plants and the POSS test the information on the site looks great so far






What school did you go to?

Offline Timo Gray

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #358 on: Oct 08, 2015, 02:41 »
First time poster, although I lurked in the forums for a few months before this. Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has shared information and encouragement regarding the POSS test. I took the test for the first time last Friday and found out I passed on Monday. The tips I read on this site were very helpful and the practice tests people linked were perfect for studying. You guys rock!

Offline AlphaBeta

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #359 on: Feb 03, 2016, 11:11 »
Like some others, this is my first time posting to this site. I just wanted to thank all the members of this site who shared valuable information, tips, and tricks about the POSS and BMST. Although I probably would have been fine just going over the EEI practice test given, reading everyone's experiences took the edge off and got me into a good mental state when I was taking it. I was able to get recommended on both the POSS and BMST test for an equipment operator at Exelon. Had an interview scheduled day after POSS/BMST duo so hopefully that went well, just found out today I passed the BMST. :D

Just wanted to thank you all again!

Offline ratrider

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #360 on: Mar 11, 2017, 09:46 »
Another first time poster here.  I took the POSS yesterday morning for an equipment operator position at Exelon Braidwood.  After returning from a 2 hour break we learned who was recommended on the POSS and would be taking the BMST.  I just wanted to thank everyone who has contributed to this topic.  The most important thing I learned was how to manage my time, particularly on the math usage section of the POSS.  I had 2 weeks to prepare and I just took a bunch of timed ASVAB practice tests.  I find out if I am recommended on the BMST in 1-2 weeks.

I have been a design engineer for various steel manufacturers since I graduated college with a B.F.A. in Industrial Design 8 years ago.  I am excited to enter a career where I will not be glued to a computer 80 percent of the time.

Offline namebau

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #361 on: May 26, 2017, 11:10 »
First time posting here. Just want to give y'all some updated information on the POSS test. Yesterday I took the POSS test for Entergy for the Nuclear Auxiliary Operator position. On the test it had 4 sections. Figural reasoning, Mechanical Concepts, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematical Usage. The real test was a little bit more complex that the practice test. If you study the practice test and the concepts behind the answers you will be fine! The only thing I studied were the practice test and the pulleys and levers chapter of the Baron's Mechanical Aptitude book.

Based on my observation the POSS test is all about accuracy. It does not matter if you finish each section or not. Honestly, if you only answer at least half 60-75 percent questions in each section I am almost certain that you will past. Below is a break down of the questions I answered in each section.

Figural Reasoning= 18/22
Reading Comprehension= 34/36
Mechanical Concepts=39/44
Mathematical Usage=26/48

Today I received an email that I was POSS recommended! Hopefully they will call me in for an interview. It took them exactly 1 day to get my results back. My advice to anyone taking the POSS test is to  listen to the advice from the people in this forum. Without their advice I really don't think that I would have known how to take the test. Remember the key to passing the POSS is knowing HOW TO TAKE THE TEST. Whatever you do, DO NOT GUESS. It will count against you. 

Offline koonce.jordan

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #362 on: Aug 25, 2017, 09:01 »
So does anyone know how long you have to wait to take the POSS again if you fail it?  I just took it and I'm honestly freaked out a little bit.  I've seen this 11 questions right per module thing, and I feel like I got that at least.  It was really easy, but man I'm a former nuke and just not used to doing math without a calculator or on such a crazy time schedule.  I feel great about all the other modules, but I know I messed up a couple of math questions with decimals.  I memorized the conversions before I went in and that really helped.  That's why I feel like I probably got at least 11 right just from the conversions.  I took the slightly longer version of the test where it's 46 math questions (conversions, algebra, and some geometry/temp conversions) in 17 minutes.  I'm just freaking out because I didn't quite finish all of it, but I feel like the ones I did were mostly right.  Should have my results in a week or so they said.  Oh and in case anyone is about to take it, I specifically asked about guessing and they told me there was no penalty for guessing.  At least at the sight I was testing for.  At any rate, just in case, I've heard 30 days, 90 days, and six months.  Anyone got the precise time frame, or is it just different per site?

Offline TP

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #363 on: Aug 31, 2017, 01:36 »
Can someone please suggest me the most effective book to study the POSS test. I used one of the books suggested , but I didn't pass the POSS test last time. The book called Barron's Mechanical Aptitude and Spatial Relations Test. Also, the materials on the POSS test was not my problem, my problem is the time. I cannot work fast enough, and I ran out of time about half way thru the test. Is there something that I can do to improve this or just keep practicing and time myself while taking the practice test?

Offline Rennhack

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #364 on: Aug 31, 2017, 05:54 »
Can someone please suggest me the most effective book to study the POSS test. I used one of the books suggested , but I didn't pass the POSS test last time.  I cannot work fast enough, and I ran out of time about half way thru the test. Is there something that I can do to improve this or just keep practicing and time myself while taking the practice test?

No book is going to improve your time.  There are suggestions n this thread for improving your time, and you just restated them.  You need to practice, and practice and practice while timing yourself.  Get your time lower.
I'd recommend reading all 366 posts in this thread.  There are a lot of gold nuggets from people who were in your shoes.

I just re-read all 15 pages of 366 messages, it took me about 10 min.  Here are some of the highlights, but I suggest you read all 366 messages slowly.

https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg31639.html#msg31639
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg41756.html#msg41756
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg48654.html#msg48654
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg97945.html#msg97945
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg103574.html#msg103574
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg126702.html#msg126702
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg160045.html#msg160045
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg164599.html#msg164599
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg179606.html#msg179606
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg181102.html#msg181102
https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,5224.msg184226.html#msg184226
« Last Edit: Aug 31, 2017, 06:18 by Rennhack »

Offline JamAjam

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #365 on: Sep 10, 2017, 07:34 »
I will be taking the POSS next week. I keep seeing talk about assembly, graphs and tables but that isn't apart of the  4 subjects the EEI has on their study guide. Should i be studying those as well or stick to whats on the study guide.
I will be testing at Entergy if that helps.

Offline SpeedOften

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #366 on: Nov 16, 2017, 01:33 »
Took the EEI POSS on Tuesday, received results today that I passed.   Thank you all for you notes.  Only 4 sections now.  Definitely ask the person giving the test to give a 1 minute warning on the math test so you can just throw lead into the circles.  I had three of 4 columns completed so I guess on the rest at the one minute mark.

Offline itpscorch

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #367 on: Apr 05, 2018, 08:07 »
Took the POSS-C yesterday for Entergy for an AO Position.

Four Sections:
1. Figural Reasoning: 20 Questions
2. Mechanical Concepts: 44 Questions
3. Read Comprehension: 36 Questions
4. Mathematical Usage: 46 Questions (maybe it was 48, I forgot)

At least for this test, you should guess rather than leave it blank.

This is almost verbatim from the script the test administrator read, "The test is scored ONLY on the number of questions you get correct. There is NO penalty for guessing or wrong answers."

With that, I answered all questions on all sections. My advice, whenever you come across a question that you think will take you a bit of time, make a VERY quick educated guess select an answer and just move on. Come back to it later once you get to the end, that way you won't have any missing bubbles. The test administrator was NOT allowed to give us a 1-minute warning so you really had no idea when time will be up. Just get to the end then come back for the more difficult ones.

Figural Reasoning: Guessed on 3 then came back to tackle them. Worked through 1 then time was up.
Mechanical Concepts: Guessed on about 6-7 of them then came back and answered about 3 before time was up.
Reading Comprehension: Didn't guess on any. Finished with at least 5 minutes left. Definitely the easiest section IMO.
Math: Guessed on about 9 of them. Came back and answered about 6 before time was up.

I received a recommended score today (1 day after the test).

Hope that helps!

Offline remaining

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #368 on: Aug 13, 2019, 03:52 »
Took the POSS C recently. I passed. Link to where I originally posted:

https://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php/topic,13839.msg208730.html#msg208730

Offline EricShaw

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Re: POSS (Power Plant Operator Selection System) Test
« Reply #369 on: Nov 05, 2019, 09:35 »
Hey guys, what do you think of this preparation material:
https://www.jobtestprep.com/poss-test?f

 


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