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Cogen Jobs (NOW HIRING)

O&M Technician

San Diego, CA

$36.92 - $47.61/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 ...

Maint Mec Helper III

Carson, CA · On-site

$16.89 - $22.40/hr

Brinderson Marathon Carson Cogen Unit Location of Job: US:CA:Carson Shift: Days 6am and NIghts 6pm Exempt: No Salary Range: Min: $14.36, Mid: $16.89, Max: $22.40 Working Conditions We conform to all ...

Knowledge of design operation aspects of stationery combustion sources (boilers, generators, fuel storage tanks, gas pipes, Cogen, chillers, cooling towers, etc. * Excellent communication skills both ...

... cogen, turbine generator, lime kiln, steam turbine, gas turbine, Power & Recovery, power manager, power & recovery manager, recovery manager, power area manager, power superintendent, area ...

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Cogen information

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$11

$35

$87

How much do cogen jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Cogen job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $73,830 per year, or $35.5 per hour.
O&M Technician

$36.92 - $47.61/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.  But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities.  When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences, and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing.  Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.  The pay range for this position is $36.92  -  $47.61.

Job Summary

Location: San Diego, CA

This position is responsible for operation, monitoring, and performing routine maintenance, in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, on all equipment located within the Cogeneration Facility. 

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 Boiler, Auxiliary Steam Boilers, Electric and Absorption Chillers, Automation Controls, and all associated balance of plant equipment. Work is performed both independently and under direct supervision of plant manager with results reviewed through the achievement of set goals and adherence to policies and procedures.

The Cogeneration Facility generates electricity utilizing (1) Solar Taurus 60 Gas Turbine Generator, High Temperature Water via (1) Rentech Heat Recovery Boiler (HRB) and (2) Back-up Unilux Package Boilers, Chilled Water via (2) Trane Absorption Chillers and (3) Carrier Centrifugal Chillers and associated Balance of Plant (BOP) Equipment. All system operations are controlled with an automated PLC control system based on Rockwell Automation hardware and software. 

The Production Team Member is responsible for the preventative, corrective and overall maintenance of all facility systems and associated plant equipment to assure the plant is operated in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner. 

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 requirements and procedures. Identifies safety hazards and takes corrective action as necessary
*Ensures that contract requirements and plant efficiency are maintained, and that local, state and federal safety and operational environmental standards are met
*Must be able to maintain and implement Key Metrics monitoring to evaluate and ensure facility systems and equipment are operating in the most efficient manner
*Maintains and ensures uniform application and technical correctness of all Operating logs, Records, Trends, and reports required for plant operation and as directed by Plant Management
*Conducts Contractor/Visitor Safety Orientations in accordance with Company Policy
*Facilitates pre-job briefs with staff/contractors to ensure worker safety and DTE policies and procedures are followed
*Is an active member of the site safety team/committee
*Assists in managing projects in support of plant and business goals, including Employee Safety Initiative (ESI's). Maintains and ensures all Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) are correct and up to date. Develops standard operating procedures (SOP's) as necessary or required directed by the Plant Manager
*Makes recommendations and improves operational processes
*Investigates operating abnormalities and incidents to improve equipment availability and performance and to minimize maintenance requirements
*Investigates and assists in the preparation of "RCA/Event Reports" in a timely manner for all forced outages, operational abnormalities, and/or events that require reporting, or as directed
*Creates "Shopping Carts" for Goods and Services for approval by Plant Manager
*Continuously evaluates the operating and maintenance processes and makes recommendations to the Plant Manager relative to optimizing O&M cost effectiveness, work quality, outage times, budgets, etc.
*Working knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
*Maintains a consistent and effective level of communications with Plant Management
*Recommends and assists in the scheduling of and supervises the performance of overhauls of plant equipment and systems by outside contractors and/or plant staff. Assures work is planned, and progresses as scheduled to meet performance and cost objectives
*Provides input on inventory of spare parts consistent with preventive maintenance and repair requirements and the need to avoid unnecessary downtime
*Maximizes plant efficiency and shareholder value without compromising personnel and equipment safety, environmental compliance, or the long-term commercial viability of the facility
*Available for scheduled and unscheduled shift coverage, performs tasks that require physical exertion and is expected to respond to after-hours call-ins when contacted
*Supports all departments and performs other duties necessary to fulfill plant requirements
*This position is defined by, but not limited to, this list of duties and responsibilities

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements
  • A high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • A minimum of 5 years related technical experience in operations and maintenance
  • A thorough, demonstrated understanding of plant operations
  • Strong understanding of Gas Turbines, Steam, Mechanical Chillers, Cooling Towers, Water Treatment, DCS, PLC Technology, Mechanical Systems, Hydraulics, Electricity and Electronics
  • Understanding of accounting systems as related to work orders, PM's, and spare parts inventories
  • Competent computer skills, especially Microsoft Office products such as Excel and Word
  • Solid knowledge of plant engineering and plant maintenance functions and how they relate to operations
  • Demonstrated skill in planning, coordinating, and directing varied programs and tasks directly effecting the overall plant operation
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings (such as blueprints, P&IDs, single-line diagrams and schematics) to problem-solving situations and troubleshooting
  • Ability to communicate and coordinate work on technical subjects with others across job families and with outside vendors
Other Qualifications

Preferred:

  • Strong mechanical skills are required for this position. Instrumentation Controls and Electrical experience is a definite plus
  • I&C experience strongly desired
  • Technical training and demonstrated ability to perform successfully in similar work environments
Physical Demands & Working Conditions

The physical demands characterized here epitomize those that must be met by an employee to properly perform the integral functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In order to properly perform the integral functions of this job, the employee is required to: 

  • Frequently stand or walk and sit
  • Frequently climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch or occasionally, crawl
  • Talk or hear; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and constantly reach with hands and arms
  • Lift objects of up to 50 pounds in weight. Carry objects of up to 35 pounds in weight. Occasionally push or pull objects 70 pounds in weight 
  • Vision requirements for this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus


The employee in this classification may be routinely required to work at heights and wear fall protection equipment; may be required to wear respiratory protective or escape/rescue equipment; may be required to wear electrical protective equipment to prevent Arc Flash hazards; and may be required to wear hearing protection and other PPE equipment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, and extreme heat and cold. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes, airborne particles and vibration. The employee is frequently exposed to mechanical and electrical hazards. The noise level in the work environment is moderate to loud.

Additional Information

Incumbents may engage in all or some combination of the activities and accountabilities, and utilize a variety of the competencies cited in this description depending upon the organization and role to which they are assigned. This description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents in this job. It is not intended as an all-inclusive list of accountabilities or responsibilities, nor is it intended to limit the rights of supervisors or management representatives to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.


PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS 
 

At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.


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