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Contract Power Plant Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Blueknight Energy Partners

Plant Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Use a variety of manual and power tools in a safe manner. * Operate forklift, tractor, or man-lift ... Perform general plant cleaning. * Perform maintenance tasks and mechanical duties (pumps, valves ...

CRH

Asphalt Plant Loader Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Asphalt Plant Loader Operator AMAT Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States Job ID: 528355 Talley ... use power and/or hand tools needed to complete jobs within specifications. • May oil, grease ...

Aggreko

Aggreko Power without pause. Heating, cooling and oil-free air without end. We keep our customers ... operating procedures and compliance to local legislation. Key Role Interactions - Plant Manager ...

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All JobsContract Power Plant Operator JobsContract Power Plant Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Contract Power Plant Operator information

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How much do contract power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract power plant operator in Tennessee is $20.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract power plant operator?

A Contract Power Plant Operator is a skilled professional responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and operating power generation equipment on a temporary or project-based basis. They ensure the plant runs efficiently and safely by performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and adhering to operational procedures. Contract operators may work at various facilities, including power plants, industrial sites, or energy production locations, depending on the employer's needs. Their role often requires flexibility, technical expertise, and adherence to strict safety and environmental regulations.

What does a contract power plant operator do?

A typical shift for a Contract Power Plant Operator involves monitoring and adjusting equipment in the control room, performing routine inspections, and responding to system alarms or malfunctions. Operators may also be responsible for documenting plant performance, coordinating with maintenance personnel, and ensuring all regulatory and safety protocols are followed. Shifts can vary depending on the employer—many power plants operate on 24/7 schedules, requiring operators to work nights, weekends, or rotating shifts. Working as a contractor can mean adapting to different plant environments and teams, which provides valuable experience across various operational settings.

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

To thrive as a Contract Power Plant Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, operational knowledge of power generation systems, and usually a relevant technical diploma or certifications such as EPA or NERC. Familiarity with SCADA systems, control room instrumentation, and plant safety protocols is essential. Effective problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and within a team are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that operators can manage plant efficiency, respond to emergencies quickly, and maintain strict compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Power Plant Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Contract Power Plant Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Power Plant Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Power Plant Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Contract Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Contract Power Plant Operator job openings:

Contract Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Power Plant Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,223 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Senior Power Plant Operator-Boiler Maintenance

The University of Tennessee

Memphis, TN • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description


Market Range: 09
Hiring Salary: $27.00/Hourly (Non-licensed)
$28.00/Hourly (Licensed First-Class Steam Operating)
JOB SUMMARY/ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
The Senior Power Plant Operator tests and maintains all treated water systems, and operates the high-pressure boiler, power plant, and cooling plant for the Health Science Center. This position is classified as an Essential Services Employee. Essential Services Employees maintain business operations for UT Health Science Center and support the physical operations and safety of the campus. This role involves performing various operations and services essential to maintain critical infrastructure and ensuring continuous operations.
Responsibilities
  1. Operates heating and cooling plant equipment that includes boilers that generate pressure in excess of 15 PSI and centrifugal chillers ranging in size up to 1500 tons.
  2. Logs entries daily as to the functions of the equipment daily check sheet.
  3. Repairs equipment as necessary.
  4. Performs routine maintenance tasks associated with the boilers and chillers, including the sump pumps, fan and cooling tower repairs.
  5. Performs daily water sample readings from the condensate, condenser and chill water loops.
  6. Generates and maintains electronic and paper records.
  7. Orders parts through the supervisor.
  8. Cleans and maintains all mechanical rooms that houses a boiler.
  9. Performs other related duties as required.

Qualifications
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION:
High School Diploma or GED. (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED)
EXPERIENCE:
Four (4) years of experience assisting in the operation of high-pressure boilers in excess of 15 PSI, operating boilers greater than 5HP and monitor refrigeration equipment greater than 40 tons. Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background check and drug screening.
LICENSE/CERTIFICATION:
Candidate must have Shelby County Third Class Steam Operating license. Candidate must have Shelby County First Class Steam Operating license OR obtain within one year of employment. Must have a valid Driver's License. (Shelby County First Class Refrigeration Operating license is preferred.). (COPY OF LICENSE/CERTIFICATION REQUIRED)
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS:
Must ability to lift 75 lbs. and to climb and work from ladders for an extended period. This position requires successful background check and drug screening as a part of the employee screening process.
WORK SCHEDULE:
May frequently work weekends and evenings. This position is required to report to designated work location to ensure the operation of essential campus functions or departments during an emergency, or when the University has suspended or delayed operations.

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