1

Control Room Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The Terminal Operator is responsible for managing the safe and efficient loading and unloading of ... Oversee complex silo operations from control room, such as loading trucks out of silos and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Control Room Operator Trainee information

What are some typical challenges faced by Control Room Operator Trainees during their initial training period?

Control Room Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as quickly learning to monitor multiple systems simultaneously, adapting to fast-paced decision-making, and understanding complex safety protocols. They must also become proficient with specialized software and equipment, while maintaining clear communication with field personnel and other departments. Overcoming these challenges usually involves hands-on experience, mentorship from experienced operators, and continuous learning to build confidence and competence in the control room environment.

What is the difference between Control Room Operator Trainee vs Control Room Operator?

AspectControl Room Operator TraineeControl Room Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be preferredRequires relevant certifications or licenses, such as safety or industry-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in a control room settingFull responsibility for monitoring and controlling operations in the control room
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in industries like power plants, manufacturing, or utilitiesFull-time role with operational duties in similar industries

The Control Room Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Control Room Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for ongoing operations. The trainee role prepares individuals for the responsibilities of the control room operator position.

How do I become a control room operator?

To become a control room operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant technical training or certification in areas such as industrial controls or safety procedures. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in related fields can also be beneficial, and strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to monitor and operate control systems are essential.

What do operator trainees do?

Control Room Operator Trainees learn to monitor and operate equipment in control rooms, ensuring safe and efficient plant or facility operations. They typically observe system readings, respond to alarms, and follow procedures under supervision to gain the skills needed for full operator responsibilities.

What qualifications do you need to be a control room operator?

Control room operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or certification related to the specific industry, such as process control or electrical systems. Relevant skills include attention to detail, problem-solving, and familiarity with monitoring equipment and control systems. Some positions may require prior experience or specialized certifications depending on the industry and complexity of operations.

How much do control room operators get paid?

Control room operators typically earn an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often include shift differentials for night or weekend work and may come with additional benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control Room Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Room Operator Trainee, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, basic computer literacy, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, DCS panels, and plant monitoring software is often required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of critical facility processes.

What does a Control Room Operator Trainee do?

A Control Room Operator Trainee assists in monitoring and managing operations within a facility’s control room, such as a power plant, manufacturing facility, or industrial site. Their responsibilities include observing equipment, reporting abnormalities, learning to operate control systems, and supporting experienced operators to ensure smooth and safe plant operations. Trainees receive hands-on training and gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience. This role is crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and adherence to operational protocols.
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Room Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Control Room Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Control Room Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado? For Control Room Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Control Room Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Control Room Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Control Room Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Control Room Operator Trainee job openings:
Senior Operator or Operator (Renewable Operations Center)

Senior Operator or Operator (Renewable Operations Center)

Xcel Energy

Golden, CO • On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 52 rated energy and utility


Job description

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

****This position is an in-person only role****

Position Summary

The Renewables Operation Center (ROC) Operator is responsible for directing, monitoring, controlling, and coordinating the operation of Xcel Energy's renewable generation assets from the 24/7 Monitoring and Operations Center. The ROC Operator has full responsibility for operating and monitoring Xcel Energy's renewable generation fleet and ensures that the operations of all sites meet safety, reliability, and performance expectations, while maintaining compliance with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards and practices.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Responsible for the daily 24/7 operations and monitoring of growing renewable generation fleet. Remotely monitor and reset renewable assets and equipment in coordination with site operations teams. Provides monitoring of balance of plant equipment, substation equipment, site performance, compliance, weather, and site status. Provides notification and control as applicable. Ensures SCADA connectivity, alarm response, and communication capabilities. Primary communication and notification responsibility to various entities (Reliability Coordinator, Balancing Authority, Transmission Operator, Site Operations). Operate within established regulatory compliance requirements.

  • Analyze data, troubleshoot, and diagnose site and equipment issues. Utilize predictive diagnostics platforms, performance monitoring systems, and SCADA to proactively monitor and identify issues, patterns, and challenges across the fleet to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency of generation fleet.

  • Coordinate plant operating parameters, curtailment procedures, call-out processes, and emergency action plan adherence between Balancing Authority, Transmission Operator, Site Operations, Engineering, and Operations Management. Dispatch site personnel for troubleshooting, response, and support.

  • Responsible for effective coordination with site operations and engineering teams. Escalate issues as required, work order creation and prioritization, outage scheduling, work schedule coordination and optimization, daily reporting and logs, call-out facilitation

  • Work independently or collaboratively on projects and initiatives that enhance the operation and reliability of the renewable generation fleet. Assist with development of operating procedures. Maintain NERC or other required certifications and training.

Operator Minimum Requirements ($42.60-$59.67)

  • BS or BA in business, economics, mathematics, engineering, or equivalent course of study that demonstrates strong analytical and technical skills.

  • Five years applicable work experience may be substituted in lieu of degree.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills, problem solving, critical thinking, analytical decision making.

  • Working knowledge of power systems operations and energy industry structure and market.

Preferred Requirements

  • Experience in renewable generation equipment operation, maintenance, or engineering.

Senior Operator Minimum Requirements ($48.70-$68.23)

  • BS or BA in business, economics, mathematics, engineering, or equivalent course of study that demonstrates strong analytical and technical skills.

  • Five years applicable work experience may be substituted in lieu of degree.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills, problem solving, critical thinking, analytical decision making.

  • Three years' experience in power system dispatching or control room operations preferred.

  • Working knowledge of power systems operations and energy industry structure and market.

  • Experience in renewable generation equipment operation, maintenance, or engineering preferred.

Preferred Requirements

  • NERC Certification

Ability to work a 12-hour rotating schedule shift that will require the person to work nights, weekends, and major holidays. Operators are subject to overtime work.

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $42.60 to $59.67 per hourThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Spot On Bonus, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 07/17/26

EEO is the Law |EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)

All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


What Xcel Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Xcel Energy logo

About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909