1

Assistant Power Plant Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Hess Services, Inc. is seeking a Concrete Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be ... Skilled in hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. * Comfortable using Microsoft Office and ...

Hess Services, Inc. is seeking a Concrete Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be ... Skilled in hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. * Comfortable using Microsoft Office and ...

Hess Services, Inc. is seeking a Concrete Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be ... Skilled in hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. * Comfortable using Microsoft Office and ...

Wastewater Plant Operator I

Salina, KS · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I City of Salina, Kansas Utilities Department On the Job Video The ... Equipment: • Computer, hand & power tools, Lockout/Tag-out equipment, telephone, test equipment ...

Plant Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$24.45/hr

... our recruiting assistant Ana at careers.cargill.com or text CargillJobs to 60196. Job Type ... Experience operating a forklift and/or warehousing experience * Ability to work overtime, weekends ...

Plant Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$24.45/hr

... our recruiting assistant Ana at careers.cargill.com or text CargillJobs to 60196. Job Type ... Experience operating a forklift and/or warehousing experience * Ability to work overtime, weekends ...

Must be willing and able to work 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts based on business needs Compensation: $24.45/hr New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Assistant Power Plant Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$12

$19

$35

How much do assistant power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant power plant operator in Kansas is $19.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant power plant operator?

Assistant Power Plant Operators are entry-level professionals who help oversee and control the operation of power plants under the supervision of senior operators. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring equipment, reading meters and gauges, performing routine inspections, and assisting with start-up and shut-down procedures. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient generation of electricity, responding to system alarms, and supporting maintenance activities. Assistant Power Plant Operators often receive on-the-job training to learn plant-specific procedures and safety protocols.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant power plant operator?

To thrive as an Assistant Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent, and sometimes vocational training. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA software, and safety protocols is crucial in this role. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to issues. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient plant operation and rapid response to potential hazards or equipment malfunctions.

What challenges does an assistant power plant operator face?

Assistant Power Plant Operators often face challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, maintaining safety protocols during routine and emergency situations, and accurately monitoring complex control systems. Balancing multiple tasks—like recording operational data, adjusting controls, and conducting inspections—requires attention to detail and effective communication with senior operators and maintenance teams. Adapting to shift work and being prepared for unexpected operational issues are also common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Assistant Power Plant Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectAssistant Power Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training, possibly licensing
Work EnvironmentSupervisory support, assisting in operationsOverseeing plant operations independently
ResponsibilitiesMonitoring equipment, assisting with maintenanceControlling plant systems, troubleshooting, ensuring safety

The Assistant Power Plant Operator typically performs supportive tasks under supervision, focusing on monitoring and assisting with operations. The Power Plant Operator has more responsibility, including controlling plant functions independently and troubleshooting issues. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the operator role involves greater decision-making and operational authority.

How much do assistant power plant operators make a week?

Assistant power plant operators typically earn between $600 and $1,000 per week, depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. They often work in environments requiring technical skills and may need certifications such as a state license or technical training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Kansas?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Kansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Power Plant Operator jobs in Kansas?

For Assistant Power Plant Operator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Power Plant Operator jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Power Plant Operator jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Assistant Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Assistant Power Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Power Plant Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,489 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Department:FM Applegate Energy Center

-----

Applegate Energy CenterPosition Title:Power Plant SpecialistJob Family Group: Professional StaffJob Description Summary:Power Plant Specialists are responsible for the operation and maintenance of equipment and utilities in KUMC's central utility plant, the Applegate Energy Center (AEC). AEC services are provided on a continuous 24/7 schedule. This position requires a basic understanding of boiler systems, chilled water systems, and electrical distribution systems, and works under the guidance of senior plant operators to resolve equipment issues.Job Description:

Job Duties

Plant Operations & Maintenance

  • Monitor and operate equipment essential to normal and emergency operations of the power plant, using Delta V Distributed Control System.

  • Maintain all system parameters through a combination of automated and manual controls.

  • Identify and troubleshoot systems, equipment, and machinery malfunctions, working with senior plant operators to correct issues.

  • Perform routine water testing and maintain proper chemical treatment parameters.

  • Perform start-up and shutdown of operating equipment.

  • Operate and monitor multiple 40,000 lb.+ steam generating boilers.

  • Operate and monitor multiple 1,250-ton centrifugal chillers.

  • Monitor and operate medium-voltage electrical distribution systems, including 13.8-kV switchgear and associated protective equipment.

  • Operate emergency power generators through both automated and manual methods.

  • Perform maintenance and repair boiler/chiller associated equipment, pumps, fans, primary/secondary electrical control systems, and pneumatic valves.

  • Maintain and operate domestic water softener system.

  • Maintain daily plant records and log relevant shift activities.

  • Follow all OSHA, KUMC, and departmental safety policies and procedures.

  • Perform Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures before maintenance activities.

  • Recognize and report unsafe conditions.

  • Participate in emergency response and plant safety drills.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. It is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, duties, and assignments.

Work Environment

  • Onsite position based in KUMC's central utility plant (Applegate Energy Center).

  • Operates on a continuous 24/7 schedule; may require rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-in.

  • Exposure to boiler systems, centrifugal chillers, cooling towers, and electrical distribution equipment.

  • Work may involve confined spaces, elevated noise levels, and extreme temperatures.

  • Requires use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

  • Lift, carry, push, or pull 20-50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.

Required Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Work Experience:

  • One (1) year of experience with boilers, chillers, or water chemical treatment.

  • Experience with pneumatic/electrical controls.

Preferred Qualifications

Certifications/Licenses:

  • Certification in stationary engineering or another discipline associated with high- and low-pressure boiler systems.

  • Operating Engineer's License.

Work Experience:

  • Experience with computer-based HVAC automated control systems.

  • Experience with chiller/boiler plant operations.

  • Experience with centrifugal pump operations and maintenance.

  • Experience with mechanical/pneumatic controls operations.

  • Experience with routine preventive maintenance.

  • Water treatment testing experience.

  • Basic electrical experience.

Skills

  • Microsoft Office

Required Documents

  • Resume/CV

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

Coverage begins on day one for health, dental, and vision insurance and includes health expense accounts with generous employer contributions if the employee participates in a qualifying health plan. Employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability insurance, and various additional voluntary insurance plans are available. Paid time off, including vacation and sick, begins accruing upon hire, plus ten paid holidays. One paid discretionary day is available after six months of employment, and paid time off for bereavement, jury duty, military service, and parental leave is available after 12 months of employment. A retirement program with a generous employer contribution and additional voluntary retirement programs (457 or 403b) are available. https://www.kumc.edu/human-resources/benefits.html

Employee Type: RegularTime Type: Full timeRate Type: Hourly

Compensation Statement:

The pay range listed for this position is determined by our compensation program using market data and salary benchmarking. A combination of factors is considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, education, experience and training, qualifications relative to the requirements of the position, and funding. At the University of Kansas Medical Center, a reasonable estimate for the starting pay range will be the minimum to midpoint of the posted range, taking into account the combination of factors listed above.

Pay Range:$24.71 - $35.82

Minimum

$24.71

Midpoint

$30.29

Maximum

$35.82