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Cogen Jobs (NOW HIRING)

USG Corporation

Cogen Supervisor

Otsego, MI · On-site

Ensure the compliance of all cogen operators with plant safety rules. * Must be able to perform this job safely and actively participate in all safety programs. Understand your surroundings and the ...

USG Corporation

Cogen Supervisor

Otsego, MI · On-site

Ensure the compliance of all cogen operators with plant safety rules. * Must be able to perform this job safely and actively participate in all safety programs. Understand your surroundings and the ...

Continental Carbon Company

Cogen Supervisor

Ponca City, OK · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

MAIN FUNCTION This position is responsible for the safe and reliable operation of the Ponca City Co-Gen facility by following established/accepted operational and process procedures developed by the ...

ASR Group

Storeroom Attendant Cogen

South Bay, FL

$15.25 - $17.25/hr

Florida Crystals Corporation is a fully integrated cane sugar company. Florida Crystals regeneratively farms sugarcane and rice in South Florida, where it owns two sugar mills, a sugar refinery, a ...

Oxy

Cogen Plant Engineer

Hahnville, LA

At OxyChem, our chemistry makes modern life possible, and it is our people who make the difference. We are a safety-first, purpose-driven team committed to innovation, environmental responsibility ...

OxyChem

Cogen Plant Engineer

Hahnville, LA · On-site

At OxyChem, our chemistry makes modern life possible, and it is our people who make the difference. We are a safety-first, purpose-driven team committed to innovation, environmental responsibility ...

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All JobsCogen Jobs

Cogen information

See salary details

$11

$35

$87

How much do cogen jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for cogen in the United States is $35.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $47.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Cogen operators?

Cogen operators are professionals who manage and maintain cogeneration (combined heat and power, or CHP) systems. These systems simultaneously produce electricity and useful heat from a single fuel source, increasing energy efficiency. Cogen operators monitor equipment, ensure safe and efficient operation, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot issues to optimize system performance. Their work is crucial in industrial, commercial, and utility settings to reduce energy costs and environmental impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cogeneration (Cogen) Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cogeneration (Cogen) Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, power plant operations, and relevant safety protocols, often supported by a technical degree or certification in power engineering. Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), SCADA systems, and preventive maintenance software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable plant performance while minimizing downtime and operational risks.

What are some common challenges faced by Cogen (Cogeneration Plant) Operators, and how can they effectively manage them?

Cogen Operators often face challenges such as balancing electrical and thermal output to meet fluctuating demand, responding quickly to system alarms or unexpected shutdowns, and maintaining equipment efficiency. Effective management includes regular monitoring of control systems, adhering to preventive maintenance schedules, and collaborating closely with maintenance and engineering teams. Operators also benefit from ongoing training to stay updated on safety protocols and technological advancements, which helps prevent downtime and ensures safe, efficient plant operation.

What is the difference between Cogen vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectCogenPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires HVAC, electrical, or mechanical certificationsRequires power plant operation licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, energy plants, combined heat and power systemsPower plants, energy generation facilities, utility sites
Industry UsageCommon in combined heat and power (CHP) plants and industrial energy systemsUsed across various power generation facilities including fossil fuel, nuclear, and renewable plants

While both Cogen and Power Plant Operators work in energy production environments, Cogen specialists focus on combined heat and power systems, often requiring specific certifications related to HVAC and mechanical systems. Power Plant Operators oversee the entire operation of power generation facilities, requiring licenses specific to power plant operations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Cogen jobs
What states have the most Cogen jobs? States with the most job openings for Cogen jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cogen jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cogen jobs are:
Cogen jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cogen job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $73,830 per year, or $35.5 per hour.
Cogen Supervisor

Cogen Supervisor

USG Corporation

Otsego, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

USG rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Primary Function:
Responsible for the daily operation of the cogeneration plant, supervision of the four (4) cogen operators, and oversight of the plant's fire protection systems. Cogeneration provides high pressure steam and power for the daily operation of a paper machine. Equipment includes two Solar turbines, two heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs), a hot process softener, and two sets of filters.
Basic Requirements:
Safety
  • Understand and observe all plant safety rules.
  • Ensure the compliance of all cogen operators with plant safety rules.
  • Must be able to perform this job safely and actively participate in all safety programs. Understand your surroundings and the potential dangers within your work areas.

Operations
  • Perform duties as assigned by the Engineering Manager.
  • Cogeneration employees will occasionally have to work overtime. As with all positions at the plant, overtime is mandatory and regular and predictable attendance is an essential factor.

Job Procedures and Requirements:
  • Must be able to perform this job safely. Understand your surroundings and the potential dangers within your work areas.
  • Maintain safe working conditions for all power house employees and ensure their compliance with Plant Safety Programs.
  • Coordination of Fire Protection Activities:
    • Weekly fire pump inspections.
    • Monthly fire extinguisher, fire hose, fire line, and valve inspections.
    • Monthly flammable cabinet inspections.
    • Working with contractors to fix fire line leaks and repair fire detection equipment.
  • Supervision of Cogeneration Employees:
    • Vacation scheduling and timecard approvals.
    • Ongoing operator training.
    • Daily review of water testing results.
    • Aid in communication of ongoing mill activity to cogen operators.
    • Make recommendations regarding discipline, accessions, terminations, promotions, and transfers.
  • Operation of the Cogeneration Facility:
    • Scheduling of regular equipment maintenance during mill planned shutdowns using existing mill RPM systems and standards.
    • Basic coordination and communication with the on-site Solar Representative.
    • Filling in as needed for operators in emergency situations.
    • Working with other mill personnel to align needs and schedules.
    • Maintenance of cogen Lockout/Tagout (LOTOs) and Visual Work Inspections (VWIs).
    • Basic knowledge of cogen environmental compliance including CEMS.

Qualifications
  • Must possess a Power Engineer's License.
  • Be able to perform the essential physical requirements necessary for this position.
  • Demonstrate ability to safely operate a Fork Truck. A valid Driver's license is required.
  • Promotes, maintains, and enforces safety to promote an accident-free operation.
  • Self-starter and the ability to handle multiple priorities effectively.
  • No significant performance/ attendance infractions within the last 36 months.
  • Must be able to perform all tasks required in the subsequent positions.

Rate of pay may be adjusted based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.
USG employees enjoy a number of benefit options for themselves and their families. These include two medical insurance options, as well as vision and dental coverage. The cost of these optional programs varies based on coverage level - employees generally pay 25% of the monthly premium cost, USG pays the rest. These coverage options are offered on the first day of employment with no waiting period.
Additionally, USG employees enjoy both a 401(k) Investment Plan with company match and a pension plan. Beyond these main features, employees may also choose from a number of additional programs like life insurance, accident insurance, legal insurance, even pet insurance, just to name a few. USG also offers Quarterly (hourly) / Annual (salary) bonus potential for all employees based on performance metrics tied to safety, quality, and productivity. USG also provides employees with paid time off and paid holidays.
Since 1902, Chicago-based USG has been a leader in producing innovative, award-winning products and systems to build everything from major commercial developments and residential housing to home improvements. USG's employees are committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and quality in everything we do. Our steadfast commitment to the company's core business values - innovation, quality, integrity, service, diversity, efficiency and safety - have helped us become the company we are today.
EOE including disability/veteran
Department Manufacturing Locations Otsego - 105 Hourly/Salaried Hourly Oracle Department Otsego-Cogen|USG Paper, LLC|USG Business Group Oracle Job Title MFG.Supervisor 1..||USG

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