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Coal Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... coal plant to a natural gas facility in 2016, breathing new life into its operations and ... Your scope of responsibility as Power Plant Attendant includes the following primary functions:

The Brandon Shores Plant is a fully scrubbed coal-fired generating station. This position reports ... At the Power Plant facility, must be able to work in adverse conditions that may include, but not ...

The Brandon Shores Plant is a fully scrubbed coal-fired generating station. This position reports ... At the Power Plant facility, must be able to work in adverse conditions that may include, but not ...

The Brandon Shores Plant is a fully scrubbed coal-fired generating station. This position reports ... At the Power Plant facility, must be able to work in adverse conditions that may include, but not ...

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Coal Power Plant information

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How much do coal power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal power plant in the United States is $44.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coal power plant?

Coal power plants are industrial facilities that generate electricity by burning coal as their primary fuel source. The process involves combusting coal to heat water in a boiler, creating steam that drives turbines connected to generators. These plants have historically been a significant source of electricity worldwide, though concerns over air pollution and carbon emissions have led to increased regulation and a push for cleaner alternatives. Despite advancements in cleaner technology, coal power plants remain a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions.

What does a coal power plant operator do?

A coal power plant operator controls and monitors the equipment that generates electricity from coal. They start and shut down machinery, perform routine inspections, adjust controls for optimal performance, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working in shifts and requiring technical training or certifications.

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

AspectCoal Power PlantPower Plant Operator
Primary RoleOperate and maintain coal-fired power generation equipmentControl and monitor various types of power plants, including coal, nuclear, or gas
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in power plant operationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in plant operation
Work EnvironmentPower plant facilities, often in industrial settingsControl rooms, plant floors, outdoor sites
Industry UsagePrimarily in coal-fired power generationAcross various power generation types, including coal

While both roles involve operating power generation equipment, a Coal Power Plant focuses specifically on coal-fired facilities, whereas a Power Plant Operator may work across different types of power plants, including coal, nuclear, or gas. The credentials and work environments are similar, but the scope of work varies based on the plant type.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coal power plant operator?

To thrive as a Coal Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or technical certification in power plant technology. Experience with distributed control systems (DCS), boiler operation, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable plant operation while adhering to environmental and safety standards.

What are common challenges faced by operators working in a coal power plant and how can they be addressed?

Operators in coal power plants often face challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, adhering to strict environmental regulations, and managing the continuous operation of complex systems. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing training in safety and environmental protocols, regular preventative maintenance, and clear communication with engineering and environmental teams. Additionally, adapting to new technologies and process improvements can help operators enhance efficiency and comply with regulatory standards, supporting both personal growth and operational excellence.
More about Coal Power Plant jobs
What cities are hiring for Coal Power Plant jobs? Cities with the most Coal Power Plant job openings:
What states have the most Coal Power Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Coal Power Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Coal Power Plant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Attendant

NAES

New Castle, PA • On-site

$35.16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


NAES rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The New Castle Generating Station, situated on a 270-acre site along the Beaver River, has undergone a significant transformation from a coal plant to a natural gas facility in 2016, breathing new life into its operations and contributing to the region's energy landscape. Equipped with three natural gas-fired steam boilers, the plant boasts a total potential MW output of 328. The plant is notable for its utilization of B&W Boilers and Westinghouse Steam Turbine Generators, controlled by an ABB DCS system.
Opportunity Summary
Under direct supervision, the Power Plant Attendant assists employees of higher classifications in the maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment and operation of the power plant. Additionally, under direct supervision, the Power Plant Attendant safely troubleshoots, maintains, repairs mechanical and deenergized electrical equipment and operates plant equipment requiring an intermediate degree of skill.
Your scope of responsibility as Power Plant Attendant includes the following primary functions:
  • Operates and performs operational maintenance on various plant equipment in compliance with environmental guidelines. Takes prompt and appropriate action to correct any deficiencies.
  • Completes Power Plant Attendant job demonstrations within the required timeframe after entering the position and receiving training materials.
  • Reports and documents abnormal conditions encountered during work activities. Maintains accurate records and standard documentation related to plant and yard equipment.
  • Diagnoses root causes of operational issues, equipment failures, and forced outages. Anticipates and prevents emergency conditions while avoiding personal injury, equipment damage, or service interruptions. Responds quickly and independently to restore normal operations following established procedures. Makes recommendations to eliminate recurring equipment problems.
  • Assists the Power Plant Operator and Senior Power Plant Operator in placing or removing boiler and turbine auxiliary equipment from service. Conducts periodic inspections of this equipment.
  • Relieves Power Plant Operators for short periods of time.
  • Inspects, dismantles, overhauls, repairs, maintains, and reassembles plant equipment.
  • Performs general bench work to support inspections and overhauls.
  • Aligns and assembles pipe and pipe fittings for intermediate-energy steam, water, and air systems, as well as pressure and intermediate gas or oil piping systems. Repairs, packs, and maintains valves.
  • Installs, replaces, and repairs heat insulation on piping, heaters, tanks, and other equipment. Removes asbestos-containing materials in accordance with established policies and regulations.
  • Performs minor rigging and scaffolding.
  • Services motors by dismantling, inspecting, replacing components, cleaning and painting windings, reinsulating, retying, and rewedging coils. Performs undercutting of commutators, gauging, megger testing, and insulation resistance testing.
  • Diagnoses, locates, and repairs electrical problems. Performs wiring work on de-energized circuits.
  • Troubleshoots various types of power plant equipment.
  • Assists with static and dynamic equipment balancing. Supports vibration and oil analysis using diagnostic tools or by collecting samples as directed. Replaces bearings that do not require hand fitting. Conducts laser alignment on rotating equipment and operates oil filtering equipment.
  • Operates small cranes, mobile cranes, and turbine room cranes.
  • Forms, shapes, and tempers tools, fixtures, and jigs. Prepares necessary sketches and technical drawings.
  • Performs general maintenance, repairs, and carpentry work.
  • Collaborates with other plant team members.
  • Provides training to assigned employees.
  • Identifies root causes of equipment failures and outages, and recommends corrective actions aligned with standard practices.
  • Performs tagging and clearing of steam and water lines and associated equipment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

NAES Safe
Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees must also adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property. Additionally, they are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Adherence to these safety responsibilities is one of the key factors in the evaluation of each employee's performance.
Working Relationships
The Power Attendant reports to the Operations Manager and responds to directions from the Operations Manager and Plant Manager.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.
Power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near equipment and varying outdoor weather conditions.
Some duties may require the use of protective equipment, which can include hard hats, safety glasses, and eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions apply in and around the facility.
Fitness for Duty
All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.
Work Schedule
The Power Plant Attendant follows a 12-hour DuPont rotating schedule, consisting of a four-week cycle of alternating day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays. Occasional extended hours and flexible shifts may be required based on operational needs, workload demands, or plant conditions. Periodic callouts and "on call" status may also be necessary.
Compensation
This position offers an initial base pay rate of $35.16 per hour.
Core Qualifications and Skills
We are seeking a skilled Operator with a foundation in power generation operations, along with a proven ability to support team success and consistently meet performance standards.
  • Ability to understand procedures and instructions related to the assigned area, typically acquired through four years of high school. An Associate degree in power plant technology, a related technical field, or engineering is preferred. Relevant industry or military experience may be considered in lieu of education.
  • Knowledge of plant and yard equipment layout, including mechanical and electrical systems, control air systems, circuit configurations, and test apparatus of moderate complexity.
  • Understanding of turbine and boiler systems, including auxiliaries, and their integration with overall plant operations.
  • Familiarity with the operation and appropriate application of installed firefighting equipment, as well as Company-prescribed first aid and resuscitation procedures.
  • Proficiency in mechanical maintenance and electrical systems, including AC/DC circuits, and a thorough understanding of the location, function, and servicing of related equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret moderately complex equipment drawings, electrical schematics, and technical specifications; must also be capable of preparing accurate sketches, drawings, and reports using computer-based tools.
  • Knowledge of protective equipment and safe work practices when working near energized electrical conductors or components.
  • Experience with gas welding, metal cutting and bending, and oxy-acetylene applications across a variety of metals.
  • Competence in using hand tools, portable power tools, rigging, and scaffolding necessary for daily maintenance tasks.
  • Ability to perform root cause analysis on plant systems and components to identify and eliminate equipment failure mechanisms.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and demonstrate effective leadership in addressing operational issues.
  • Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver's license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES
NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have built a reputation as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Our growing family of companies allows us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.
NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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