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Control Room Operator Power Plant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$42.20/hr

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA $1,500 Sign-on Bonus!* Starting Pay Rate: $28.36 * Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential) * Qualified Boiler ...

Power Plant Engineer 3

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

This position is also responsible for operating generators for the Institute's electrical power in ... in power plant engineering principles including the operation, maintenance and repair of steam ...

$28.93 - $31.12/hr

Power Plant Utility/Operator - Co-Generation Plant $1,500 Sign-On Bonus |$28.93/hr Starting Pay Location: ADM Soybean Processing Plant 1940 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA 50313 Shift: 12-hr rotating swing ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Durant, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Bryant, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

De Witt, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Low Moor, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Donahue, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Sabula, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor ... reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator ...

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Control Room Operator Power Plant information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$21

$40

How much do control room operator power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator power plant in Iowa is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a control room operator do in a power plant?

A Control Room Operator in a power plant is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment that generates and distributes electricity. They oversee computer systems and instrumentation to ensure the plant operates safely and efficiently. Their duties include starting or stopping equipment, responding to alarms, troubleshooting problems, and following strict safety procedures. Control Room Operators also coordinate with other plant staff to ensure smooth operations and compliance with regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a control room operator power plant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Room Operator Power Plant, you need a solid understanding of power generation systems, electrical and mechanical principles, and typically a technical diploma or degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, distributed control systems (DCS), and relevant safety certifications is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure set outstanding operators apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the plant while minimizing risks and responding effectively to emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by control room operators in a power plant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Control Room Operators in power plants often face challenges such as responding quickly to abnormal operating conditions, maintaining clear communication with field staff, and managing high-pressure situations during emergency shutdowns. Effective management of these challenges relies on thorough training, a strong understanding of plant systems, and adherence to standardized operating procedures. Regular drills and teamwork with engineers and technicians also help operators remain prepared and responsive, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the plant.

What is the difference between Control Room Operator Power Plant vs Control Room Operator Nuclear Power Plant?

AspectControl Room Operator Power PlantControl Room Operator Nuclear Power Plant
CertificationsPlant-specific training, safety protocolsAdditional nuclear safety certifications, NRC licenses
Work EnvironmentFossil fuel, renewable, or thermal plantsNuclear reactors, radiation safety zones
Industry UsagePower generation from various sourcesExclusive to nuclear energy sector

While both roles involve monitoring and controlling power generation processes, Control Room Operators in nuclear plants require specialized certifications and work within radiation safety environments. In contrast, general Control Room Operators work across diverse power plants without nuclear-specific requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Control Room Operator Power Plant jobs in Iowa?

For Control Room Operator Power Plant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Control Room Operator Power Plant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Control Room Operator Power Plant jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Control Room Operator Power Plant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,230 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA

Archer Daniels Midland

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$28.36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 365 rated logistics


Job description


CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA
$1,500 Sign-on Bonus!*
Starting Pay Rate: $28.36
  • Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
  • Qualified Boiler Tech II Operator: $38.71 ($35.86 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
  • Qualified Boiler Tech I Operator: $42.20 ($39.65 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
Shift: 8-Hour Day Shift & 12-Hour rotating days/ nights (DuPont Schedule)
ADM is a part of the production of 30% of the food supply globally, on average you touch at least 7 items per day made with ADM ingredients. Everyone who works here is a big part of feeding the world. Learn more about ADM here: https://www.adm.com/.
Why Join?
  • Weekly Pay
  • Benefits Start Day 1
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Personal Days (Vacation & Sick Time Effective Day 1)
  • 9 Company Paid Holidays
  • 401k with up to 5% Company Match
  • Cash Balance Plan (Pension)
  • Annual Raises
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts & Health Savings Account
  • Company Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Plan
  • Company Paid Life Insurance & Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouse, & Children
  • Parental Leave Program
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Company provided work boots, uniforms, and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The CoGeneration Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of material handling systems, including Coal, Ash Silo, and Limestone Silo Systems. This role involves general maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring the desired safety, production, quality, and environmental standards are met.
Responsibilities:
  • Supports the unloading of coal and lime material by truck and rail and loading of ash trucks
  • Enters and verifies truck weights and data into computerized ADM Weigh Systems.
  • Operates motorized heavy equipment, including but not limited to rail locomotives, skid steer loader, and boom lifts.
  • Collects in-process samples at appropriate collection times, conducts laboratory testing, enters results to database, and analyzes results.
  • Follows and understands Equipment Specific Lockout Procedure (ESLP) to ensure safe and successful Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) of process equipment.
  • Executes daily Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure and maintain cleanliness throughout the plant and department.
  • Conducts routine maintenance checks, cleanings, troubleshooting, and basic preventive maintenance on process equipment.
  • Adheres to all safety regulations and partners with team members and plant leadership to foster a culture of safety for all individuals.
On the Job Requirements:
  • Ability to work independently with a high level of autonomy.
  • Possesses high degree of punctuality, work ethic, and reliability.
  • Able to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Able to communicate effectively with department operators and leadership.
  • Possesses strong attention to detail and high levels of quality of work.
  • Mechanical inclination and aptitude with ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues.
  • Proficiency in Windows computer operating system & related software.
Education & Experience Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED, required.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without Visa sponsorship.
  • Ability to understand and effectively communication in English (verbal & written).
  • Strong fundamental skills (math, reading, writing, & verbal communication).
  • Experience in industrial or mechanical manufacturing environment.
  • Experience operating heavy machinery and equipment.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Ability to move about on a work site by ascending/descending stairs, extensive walking, climbing steps or ladders, prolonged periods of standing and sitting, stooping, bending, kneeling, or squatting frequently
  • Ability to operate equipment or machinery that may be located at different heights with open view grating from multiple elevations or in confined spaces
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds overhead
  • Ability to traverse 2 miles or more during the course of a workday
  • Ambient conditions - Work area is, typically, a non-air-conditioned production environment. Working in extreme heat and cold in all seasonal elements, both indoors and outside on a regular basis.
  • Atmosphere: may come in contact with dust (Peanut - known allergen), corn, cotton, canola seed, chemicals, and odor
  • Must be able to work around vibrating equipment and noise levels that may reach or exceed 85 decibels and will require use of hearing protection for most of the work shift
  • Employees are required to wear all company provided PPE (i.e., hard-hats, safety glasses, earplugs, uniforms, and steel-toed boots) in addition to job specific PPE requirements (i.e., fall protection equipment and respirators)
*Sign On Bonus Eligibility: Eligibility for this bonus is subject to company policy. Former employees rehired within 12 months of their separation date are not eligible. The company reserves the right to modify or discontinue this bonus program at any time.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:111715BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay for this position is expected to be:

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