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Cogen Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

USG Corporation

Cogen Supervisor

Otsego, MI · On-site

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 ...

USG Corporation

Cogen Supervisor

Otsego, MI

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 ...

Department of Public Health

Steam Fireman - CoGen

Tewksbury, MA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

... CoGen to play an essential role in maintaining the continuous operation of high- and low-pressure ... This role offers steady, meaningful work with the chance to grow your expertise in power plant ...

DTE Energy

O&M Technician

San Diego, CA

$36.92 - $47.61/hr

All activities within the Cogeneration Facility and Customer Complex are under the direction of the DTE San Diego Cogen, Inc. Plant Manager. Key Accountabilities *Complies with all site safety ...

Rio Tinto

Supervisor - Cogen/ Steam

Boron, CA · On-site

$92.24K - $126.83K/yr

Steam Plant Supervisor * Opportunity to develop your career and work for a global company ... the Steam Plant Cogen department, you will be: * Producing without harm to the environment ...

SF Demo - Rio Tinto

Supervisor - Cogen/ Steam

Boron, CA · On-site

$92.24K - $126.83K/yr

Steam Plant Supervisor * Opportunity to develop your career and work for a global company ... the Steam Plant Cogen department, you will be: * Producing without harm to the environment ...

Johnson Matthey

Project and Utilities Engineer

Deptford, NJ · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Lead Engineer for the Utilities Area, including the Boiler Room and Cogen Plant, which includes ownership of all the equipment, processes and boiler operator activities. * Hold Lead Engineer position ...

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How much do cogen plant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for cogen plant in the United States is $38.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $50.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cogen Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, power generation processes, and safety protocols, usually supported by a technical diploma or relevant certifications. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and maintenance management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient, safe, and reliable plant operations, minimizing downtime and maximizing energy output.

What are some common challenges faced by operators working in a cogen plant, and how can they be addressed?

Operators in a cogen (combined heat and power) plant often face challenges such as managing equipment reliability, balancing energy output with demand, and adhering to strict safety and environmental regulations. Unexpected equipment failures or fluctuations in fuel quality can disrupt operations, requiring quick troubleshooting and effective communication with maintenance teams. Staying current with standard operating procedures, participating in regular safety training, and fostering strong teamwork are key strategies to address these challenges and ensure smooth, efficient plant performance.

What is a Cogen Plant?

A Cogen Plant, short for cogeneration plant, is a facility that simultaneously generates electricity and useful heat from the same energy source. This process, also known as combined heat and power (CHP), increases energy efficiency by capturing the heat that would otherwise be wasted in conventional power generation. Cogen plants are commonly used in industries, hospitals, universities, and other facilities that require both electricity and heat. By utilizing both forms of energy, these plants can reduce energy costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to separate production of electricity and heat.

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

AspectCogen PlantPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or associate degrees in energy or mechanical fieldsOften requires similar technical certifications or licenses, such as a boiler operator license
Work EnvironmentCombined heat and power facilities, often industrial or utility settingsLarge-scale power generation facilities, including fossil fuel, nuclear, or renewable plants
Industry UsageUsed in industries needing both electricity and heat, such as manufacturing or district heatingPrimarily in electricity generation for utilities or independent power producers

While both roles involve operating power generation equipment, Cogen Plant operators focus on combined heat and power systems, whereas Power Plant Operators manage large-scale electricity-only plants. The skills and certifications overlap, but the work environments and primary functions differ slightly.

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Cogen Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cogen Plant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,605 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Cogen Supervisor

Cogen Supervisor

USG Corporation

Otsego, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

USG rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 511 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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