Apprentice Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Closing Date to Apply: May 25th, 2026 @ 5 pm PST

Openings: 2

Wage Rate: $68.90 Hourly

Benefits: This link below will provide you with Grant PUD’s benefits that may be available if hired, different employee types are eligible for different benefits.

Grant PUD — Unified Insurance Program (uip-wa.org)

First review of applications will occur on May 25th, 2026; however, applications received after this date may be considered if needed. Applicants meeting minimum qualifications may undergo further evaluation based on preferred qualifications and other job-related criteria. Only the most qualified candidates will be referred for further consideration.

Position Summary

The Power Plant Operator is a bargaining unit operator responsible for the safe, efficient and correct operation of District power plant equipment while working under the general direction of the Chief Powerplant Operator and/or Senior Powerplant Operator. This position needs to work independently, be self-motivated, and exercise sound judgment.

The Powerplant Operator may perform functions individually, or with assistance of other operators, mechanics, electricians, technicians, apprentices, fish counters, security guards, etc. The Powerplant Operator is directly responsible for creating and maintaining operating reports and records at District projects. The Powerplant Operator is responsible for ensuring operations are conducted in an environmentally sound manner.

The Powerplant Operator shall perform all safety regulations and safe clearance procedures in a professional manner.
The Powerplant Operator shall be qualified by experience and training to operate, in accordance with standard operating procedures, the District's generating plants, switchyards, substations, and their appurtenances.
This position is required to pass a CIP Security Background Check.

Essential Functions

• Operating District vehicles is an essential function of this job. Examples include but are not limited to: GCPUD required fleet vehicles, trucks and pickups.
• Perform daily functions under general direction of the Chief Operator and/or Senior Powerplant Operator.
• Assist Incident Commander during outages and accidents.
• Effectively communicate plant conditions at shift change or when relieved of duty.
• Assist foremen and contractors with clearance requests.
• Assist with troubleshooting problems and take a lead role when necessary.
• Review new and completed projects; test and check for proper operation and completion, including SOPs, turnover packages, corrected prints, and test alarm circuits.
• Assist Engineering with design problems.
• Implement and monitor plant security.
• Ensure a safe work environment for all employees.
• Report safety, project integrity, or security issues to the Chief Operator while addressing the problem as appropriate.
• Ensure co-workers are aware of expectations when delegated work by communicating effectively.
• Ensure accurate communication to Chief Operator, Senior Operator, co-workers, foremen, and dispatchers regarding decisions, issues, and activity updates.
• Embrace change; actively seek and implement improvements to the work environment and customer service.
• Demonstrate positive support for District decisions.
• Promote and enforce District policies and procedures, including safety rules.
• Support teamwork and encourage participation in decisions and improvements.
• Train, coach, and evaluate apprentices and new employees, including completing formal written
• Demonstrated commitment to Grant PUD’s mission, vision, values, strategic plan, and Grant PUD / IBEW Local 77 Code of Excellence. The incumbent should be familiar with these organizational priorities and behave in a way that aligns with these expectations.
• Understand and adhere to compliance requirements for this position that may include laws, regulations, security guidelines, Grant PUD policies & Procedures.
• In this position, if needed to operate a GPUD vehicle for business purposes, please refer to the Vehicle/Asset Usage Policy, IS-TA-POL-001.
• Actively participate in all aspects of our safety program, including but not limited to:
  o Following all safety policies and procedures.
  o Alerting supervisors and coworkers to unsafe or hazardous working conditions.
  o Reporting any safety incidents or close calls within 24 hours to your supervisor.
  o Accepting feedback from supervisors and coworkers regarding your own safety performance.

Required Qualifications (Education and Experience, License, and/or Certification):

• High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution
• Journeyman power plant operator card/status recognized by the District and Union, OR three (3) years of documented, experience in a utility power plant operation or large industrial operations is required. (Qualifying experience must include a combination of the following: operation of complex mechanical and electrical systems; experience with power generation; electrical distribution; high voltage switching; or backup generation systems. Experience gained in military or federal service operating similar systems, including naval propulsion or onboard generation systems, is considered relevant) AND as a condition of employment must pass the journey exam within twelve months of employment. Employees are required to take the exam within 6 months from hire date.
• A valid driver’s license with no driving restrictions.
• Valid First Aid Card including CPR training, equivalent Washington State requirements for industrial first aid OR be able to obtain one within 6 months of hire.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Washington State Electrical Workers Safety Rules and Regulations
• Knowledge of applicable Federal and State regulations
• Knowledge of District policies and procedures, including personnel and safety policies
• Knowledge of Safe Clearance Procedures and SOPs
• General knowledge of District’s Strategic Plan
• Knowledge of District powerplants, switchyards, and associated equipment
• Knowledge of maintenance tracking systems (Maximo) and related processes
• Ability to read and interpret manuals, blueprints, schematics, and maintenance documents
• Knowledge of the Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Ability to adjust to varying workload demand
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and cooperate with all levels of District personnel, contractors, and customers
• Ability to perform, delegate, or provide instruction of operational duties
• Ability to follow and understand oral and written instructions
• Ability to operate and train in proper operation of project equipment
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and be self-motivated
• Demonstrated ability to problem solve
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, especially in stressful or crisis situations
• Knowledge of applicable District computer systems and programs
• Ability to maintain records, logs, files, and complete forms legibly

Physical Requirements

• Must be mentally and physically fit for duty
• Ability to work irregular hours under isolated conditions
• Duties performed at District power plants and switchyards in varying weather conditions
• Must be medically qualified, pass respirator fit testing, and maintain ability to use SCBA
• Ability to perform activities at unprotected heights of less than 10 feet
• Ability to work in high noise/vibration areas
• Ability to work in confined spaces or restricted areas
• Ability to work near rotating and high voltage equipment
• Ability to work in extreme heat or cold, both inside and outside the power plant
• Ability to ascend/descend stairs and ladders
• Ability to lift/carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to reach above shoulder level
• Ability to differentiate colors and use senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell) to monitor plant operations
• Ability to use computers and write legibly

*For a full list of requirements, the applicant/incumbent should refer to the Physical Capacity Evaluation (PCE).

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions for this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements.  Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas.