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Assistant Power Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Plant Operator Lead

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Facilities / Skilled Trades Reporting to a Power Plant Operator Shift Supervisor, the Plant Operator Lead will assist the supervisor in setting work priorities, assigning work, and overseeing daily ...

W3Global Inc.

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

Blue Phoenix

Plant Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

... truck. * Assist the Lead Operator and/or Maintenance Operator with inventory. * Complete minor ... Proficiency with hand and power tools * Ability to work effectively in adverse environmental ...

Vistra Energy

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA · On-site

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Luminant

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA · On-site

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

TXU Energy

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Amrize

Plant Operator

Gloucester, VA · On-site

Plant Operator Driven by our purpose: Building progress for people and the planet. We are ... Keep accurate records of material usage, output, and downtime. Assist with plant cleaning ...

ESI

ESI Plant Operator RNG

Suffolk, VA · On-site

Recommend and assist in further SOP development. · Maximize Plant efficiencies. · Other duties as ... Power; Waste Management; Environmental Air Quality Control Systems. · Instrumentation and Controls ...

Amrize

Plant Operator

VA · On-site

... Assist with plant cleaning, shutdowns, and routine servicing. • Demonstrate a commitment to ... operating quarry or heavy plant equipment (e.g. crushers, screens, loaders). • Strong ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

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Assistant Power Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant power plant operator in Virginia is $22.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $25.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Assistant Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Power Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,122 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Assistant Power Plant Superintendent

Radford University

Radford, VA • On-site

$63K - $68K/yr

Full-time, Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Monitor, operate, and maintain boilers and associated equipment.

  • Maintain plant chemistry within established guidelines to ensure safety, security, and efficiency.

  • Assist with preparing plans for boiler operations, maintenance, and cleaning, and maintain records of repairs and maintenance.

Radford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant Power Plant Superintendent
Job no: 55000376
Work type: Classified Staff
Location: Radford
Categories: Facilities / Skilled Trades
Title: Assistant Power Plant Superintendent
Application Review Date: Ongoing
Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus
Job Description
Reporting to the Power Plant Superintendent, the Assistant Power Plant Superintendent monitors, operates and maintains boilers and associated equipment. Regular duties include maintaining plant chemistry within established guidelines to ensure plant security, safety and efficiency. This position will also ensure compliance with Federal, State and local regulations for all boilers. This position works closely with the superintendent on preparing plans for the boiler operations, maintenance, and cleaning. The Assistant Plant Superintendent maintains records, as required, on all repairs and planned maintenance of the boilers and other related equipment. This responsibility assists with providing leadership, guidance and supervision to boiler operators, while implementing work schedules and training operators.
Required Qualifications
Demonstrated experience working with high-pressure steam equipment. Demonstrated experience with scheduling and managing personnel. Experience maintaining logs, reports and records. Demonstrated aptitude in the performance of and evaluation of work, services and results and making adjustments and/or recommendations for repairs as needed. Must be able to work a rotating work shift that involves nights and weekends and respond to Radford University for emergencies within 30 minutes.
Preferred Qualifications:
A license from an accredited licensing board, such as NIULPE (National Institute for the Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers) or ASOPE (American Society of Power Engineers); or a degree in instrumentation Mechanical, plumbing, or boiler experience. Experience with Microsoft Office Suite Experience as a supervisor or foreman performing leadership functions. Experience working in a higher education environment. Experience working a rotating work shift, night shift, or swing shift.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please provide resume, list of references and a cover letter.
Employment Conditions: Position designated as Essential/Emergency Personnel. Valid driver's license.
Is this position Grant Funded: No
Is this position restricted: No
Is this position eligible for telework: No
Hours Per Week: 40
Months per Year: 12
Statement of Economic Interest Required: No
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Work Classification: Classified Staff
Normal Work Schedule: M-F 7:30-4PM
Employee Classification: Utility Plant Specialist II
Department: FM Power Plant
Salary: $63,525 - $68,000 (Commensurate with experience and qualifications)
Department Contact Name: Jesse Burnett
Department Contact Phone: 540-831-5122
Department Contact Email: jburnett2@radford.edu
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.
Clery Statement
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university's policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years' of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.
Criminal Background Check Statement
Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code § 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.
Advertised: 20 Mar 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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