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Cogen Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Cogeneration Facility is operated and maintained by DTE San Diego Cogen, Inc., and owned by Rady Children's Hospital. The Production Team Member 3 supports the operation and maintenance of a Gas ...

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The Cogeneration Facility is operated and maintained by DTE San Diego Cogen, Inc., and owned by Rady Children's Hospital. The Production Team Member 3 supports the operation and maintenance of a Gas ...

O&M Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$47.65 - $58.62/hr

The Facility is operated and maintained by DTE San Diego Cogen, Inc., and owned by Rady Children's Hospital. The Production Team Member operates and maintains a Gas Turbine with a Heat Recovery ...

Utilities Manager

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Manage operating budget and has responsibility for the financial performance of the operation ... Proficient at managing outages, shutdowns, and start-ups of Cogen equipment. * Demonstrated ability ...

Manage operating budget and has responsibility for the financial performance of the operation ... Proficient at managing outages, shutdowns, and start-ups of Cogen equipment. * Demonstrated ability ...

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Cogen Operator information

What is a cogen operator?

Cogen Operators, short for Cogeneration Operators, are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining cogeneration plants, also known as combined heat and power (CHP) facilities. These plants simultaneously generate electricity and useful heat from the same energy source, increasing efficiency compared to traditional power plants. Cogen Operators monitor equipment, perform routine maintenance, ensure safety protocols are followed, and troubleshoot issues to keep the plant running smoothly. Their work is essential for optimizing energy production and minimizing environmental impact. They often work with complex control systems and must have strong technical and problem-solving skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cogen operator?

To thrive as a Cogen Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized training or certification in power plant operations. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for maintaining efficient and safe cogeneration plant operations, minimizing downtime, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by cogen operators in maintaining efficient plant operations?

Cogen Operators often encounter challenges such as balancing heat and power outputs to meet fluctuating facility demands, responding quickly to equipment alarms or malfunctions, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They must also coordinate with maintenance teams and other plant staff to minimize downtime during maintenance or unexpected outages. Adaptability and strong troubleshooting skills are key to managing these dynamic situations and maintaining optimal plant performance.

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

AspectCogen OperatorPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or licenses related to cogeneration systemsRequires certifications in power plant operations, often including boiler and turbine licenses
Work EnvironmentOperates in facilities with combined heat and power systems, often in industrial or utility settingsWorks in large-scale power generation plants, including fossil fuel, nuclear, or renewable energy facilities
Industry UsageCommon in industries with on-site energy needs and cogeneration systemsWidely used across various power generation sectors
Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles involving energy efficiency and combined heat and power systemsCompared for general power generation roles and plant operations

While both roles involve operating energy systems, Cogen Operators focus on combined heat and power systems, whereas Power Plant Operators oversee large-scale power generation facilities. The skills and certifications overlap but are tailored to their specific environments and systems.

Infographic showing various Cogen Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$59.79/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


University Of California Irvine rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Who We Are
Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation's top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide.
To learn more about UC Irvine, visit www.uci.edu.
The Division of Finance and Administration (DFA) provides services and support to over 50,000 students, faculty, and staff with the mission of advancing UCI's brilliant future and the vision of becoming world-class campus partners. DFA serves the university as planning partners, problem solvers, and solution providers-striving to make it as easy as possible for people to get the services they need, when they need them.
Facilities Management is proud to support the campus mission of advancing UCI's brilliant future by creating a physical environment that allows our students, faculty and staff to thrive. Our goal is to provide safe, reliable and clean spaces through high quality maintenance, operation, planning and renovation services for our 1,475-acre main campus. We accomplish this with our dedicated skilled staff who strive to provide excellent customer service and responsiveness.
Your Role on the Team
Plant Operations and Maintenance has primary responsibility for the operation, maintenance, service, and repair of Central Plant, building, machinery and utility systems at UCI. Responsibility for, but not limited to, the operation, maintenance, and cleaning of the combustion turbine generator; steam turbine generator; heat recovery system; AQMD emissions reduction systems; gas compressor; related electrical equipment and systems; high pressure, multi-fuel and HTHW boilers; both steam and electric chillers; cooling tower; air compressors; water softeners; high temperature hot water generators; air dryer systems; vacuum systems; emergency generators; all auxiliary equipment and any other equipment under the jurisdiction of the Central Plant. Maintain accurate records of equipment operation and maintenance on log sheets and logbooks. Maintain accurate records of time and materials used for equipment repairs and maintenance. Provide emergency services, excellent customer communications and services to the campus community. The position is responsible for assisting in the development, implementation and maintenance of a preventive and corrective maintenance program to insure reliable operation of the central plant and an accurate maintenance history of all plant and building equipment. The position will also perform operational, maintenance and other duties as assigned, associated with the central plant.
What It Takes to be Successful
Required:
  • Knowledgeable in Rigging, and lifting heavy equipment
  • Ability to align pumps, fans, and motors
  • Pipe fitting skills of all sizing. Blk. pipe, PVC piping and SS tubing
  • Ability to replace bearings and seals on pumps and motor
  • LOTO (Lock Out/Tag Out) experience
  • Knowledge and skills to operate, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair all central plant equipment and systems.
  • Knowledge and skills to operate, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair all campus building mechanical equipment and systems
  • Knowledge of gas turbine engines and electrical systems.
  • Knowledge of commonly accepted industry operation/maintenance practices
  • Ability to use PC or computer system to access and manipulate data and control equipment and processes.
  • Ability to manage programs and maintain files, records, and logs
  • Must be able to see and read well enough to understand written work instructions, technical manuals, blueprints, computer screens, printouts, etc
  • Must have oral and written communication skills adequate to convey instructions, directions and information to co-workers, managers, customers, and contractors
  • Must be able to adjust priorities to accomplish objectives in a changing work environment.
  • Must be familiar with and comply with specific and detailed safety procedures, such as biosafety and confined entry requirements, radiation safety and biosafety protocols, asbestos removal procedures, specifics of Material Safety Data Sheets, etc
  • Must be able to appropriately wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, goggles, face shields, gowns, gloves and protective safety equipment such as safety glasses and safety shoes.
  • A valid unlimited Steam Operating Engineering License, within 6 months of hire issued by the City of Los Angeles
  • Possession of a Turbine Endorsement on the valid unlimited Steam Operating Engineer License
  • Possession of E.P.A. Certified Universal Technician Licenses
  • Must possess a valid California Driver's License and participate in the DMV Pull program.
  • A minimum of 3 years of experiencein a Power Plant, Operation and maintenance and Various equipment experience: Maintain, operate, repair, overhaul, replace. (Vac. Pumps, air comp., air dryers, various water system skids)

Driver's License:
  • Required to hold a valid drivers license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.

Preferred:
  • Knowledge of University policies and procedures

Special Conditions:
  • Must be able to work scheduled/unscheduled overtime, during weekends, holidays, and off-shift periods and be accessible by telephone.
  • Must have the physical stamina to work in inclement weather (hot/cold) conditions, confined spaces, from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, etc
  • Must be able to climb a vertical ladder to the height of approximately 50 feet.
  • This position does not permit smoking anywhere on UCI campus.

Total Rewards
In addition to the salary range listed below, we offer a wealth of benefits to make working at UCI even more rewarding. These benefits may include medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to a number of discounts and perks. Please utilize the links listed here to learn more about our compensation practices and benefits.
Conditions of Employment:
The University of California, Irvine (UCI) seeks to provide a safe and healthy environment for the entire UCI community. As part of this commitment, all applicants who accept an offer of employment must comply with the following conditions of employment:
  • Background Check and Live Scan
  • Employment Misconduct*
  • Legal Right to work in the United States
  • Vaccination Policies
  • Smoking and Tobacco Policy
  • Drug Free Environment

*Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
The following additional conditions may apply, some of which are dependent upon business unit or job specific requirements.
  • California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act
  • E-Verify
  • Pre-Placement Health Evaluation

Details of each policy may be reviewed by visiting the following page - https://hr.uci.edu/new-hire/conditions-of-employment.php
Closing Statement:
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.
We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce along with honoring unique experiences, perspectives, and identities. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.
UCI provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. For more information, please contact Human Resources at (949) 824-0500 or eec@uci.edu.
Consideration for Work Authorization Sponsorship
Must be able to provide proof of work authorization

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