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Contract Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by being responsible for operating ...

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Half Moon Bay, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Pittsburg, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Power Plant Operator

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Koda Energy/RahrBSG is looking for a Power Plant Operator to join out team in Shakopee, Minnesota. The Plant Operator is a shift lead position that is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

Power Plant Operator

Half Moon Bay, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Half Moon Bay, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Power Plant Operator

Oswego, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Indeck Energy Services is looking for an individual with combined cycle power plant experience to ... Since 1985, Indeck Energy has developed, financed, managed the construction, owned and operated ...

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Power Plant Operator

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$25.80 - $38.70/hr

Power Plant Operator * High School diploma or GED. * Universal EPA certification within 6 months of hire. Stationary Engineer certificate within 30 months of hire. * 2 years of plant engineering work ...

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Contract Power Plant Operator information

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

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract power plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Power Plant Operator job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Power Plant Operator position, and why are they important?

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 does a typical shift look like for a Contract Power Plant Operator?

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.

More about Contract Power Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Power Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Power Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Power Plant Operator jobs include:
Power Plant Operator

$39 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description
The Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all Plant equipment under their control in accordance with written plant procedures and under the direction of the Shift Lead OMT and O&M Manager. In the absence of specific orders and/or directives, the Operator exercises initiative, using experience and good judgment in Plant operation. Comply with plant policies including those concerning safety and environmental.
Camden Plant Holdings (Camden) is a 145 MW gas fired combined cycle facility utilizing a GE 7001EA Gas Turbines and a GE Steam Turbine with water cooled condensers. The facility is interconnected to PSEG and sells power into the PJM market.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Oversee the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally sound operation of plant equipment.
  • Assist in combined-cycle plant start-up, shutdown, and equipment operations as necessary, including turbines, HRSG, and auxiliary equipment in accordance with operating instructions and procedures.
  • Properly operate plant equipment, including valves, air actuators, and electrical switches, during normal and emergency operation, including valves, selector switches.
  • Communicate information clearly, both orally and written.
  • Troubleshoot plant equipment to resolve operational problems.
  • Operate various computer systems to receive, analyze, comprehend, and input data.
  • Monitor and record data available using various instruments, recording charts, annunciator systems and other monitoring devices onto shift logs as directed.
  • Implement Plant Emergency Procedures as needed.
  • Observe variations in operating conditions and interpret meter and gauge readings.
  • Monitor and test water chemistry per written guidelines to maintain proper steam quality and boiler chemistry.
  • Communicate conditions of plant system and equipment to others.
  • Apply knowledge of combined cycle power plant operations and basic power plant principles to daily decision-making and work tasks.
  • Discern and respond to verbal and auditory signals from control panel.
  • Take, record, and analyze readings of various electrical and mechanical meters.
  • Ensure shift operations and maintenance PMs are performed.
  • Safely operate plant equipment, including, trucks, cranes, forklifts, and personnel lifts
  • Will involve occasional work with OSHA classified hazardous materials.
  • Meet physical requirements of the job such as perform tasks while standing, walking (up to 12 hours), climbing stairs and ladders, reaching overhead, and squatting. The ability to lift (50 pounds), use hand tools and test instruments. Wearing personal protective equipment in the performance of duties (e.g. hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, arc flash clothing, and work boots.
  • Performance of duties requires working rotating shifts, including weekends and holiday coverage, and off-shift coverage. "On Call" status may be required. Timely response to call-out opportunities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements
  • New Jersey Stationary 3rd Class Engineer's License (Blue Seal)
  • Three or more years of experience operating boilers, combustion and steam turbines, and resin exchange water equipment.
  • Operations background through appropriate training and/or experience.
  • Excellent technical and organizational skills.
  • Oral and written communication skills.
  • Proven ability to work in a team environment and perform effectively without close supervision.
  • Must be computer literate and familiar with Microsoft Word, Excel, and e-mail required.
  • Ability to use discretion concerning confidential and sensitive company information.
  • Ability to Distinguish between colors.
  • Ability to read one line engineering drawings.