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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... operating parameters. Performs a variety of plant maintenance tasks including diagnosis ...

Power Plant Operator I

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$34.21 - $42.76/hr

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... Job Responsibilities • Entry-level; practical operating knowledge to perform job. • Performs ...

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 ...

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

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$38.32 - $47.90/hr

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... operating parameters. Performs a variety of plant maintenance tasks including diagnosis ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 I

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$34.21 - $42.76/hr

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... Job Responsibilities • Entry-level; practical operating knowledge to perform job. • Performs ...

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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

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$18

$33

$61

How much do entry level nuclear power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nuclear power plant operator in the United States is $33.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $60.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level nuclear power plant operator do?

An entry level nuclear power plant operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling systems that generate nuclear power under the supervision of experienced operators. Their duties include reading instruments, adjusting controls, recording data, and assisting with routine maintenance and safety checks. They follow strict protocols to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the plant while learning the skills needed for more advanced roles. Training and certification are typically required before independently managing any critical operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level nuclear power plant operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level nuclear power plant operators often face the challenge of mastering complex systems and procedures while adhering to strict safety protocols. The learning curve can be steep, as operators must quickly become familiar with plant operations, emergency responses, and regulatory requirements. To overcome these challenges, new operators benefit from thorough training programs, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and active participation in drills and simulations. Building strong communication skills and asking questions when unsure are also key to success in this highly regulated environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator vs Nuclear Power Plant Technician?

AspectEntry Level Nuclear Power Plant OperatorNuclear Power Plant Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training and certification from NRCAssociate degree or technical certification; specialized training
Work EnvironmentControl room, plant floor, safety protocolsEquipment maintenance, testing, troubleshooting in plant facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitor reactor operations, follow safety procedures, respond to alarmsMaintain and repair plant equipment, assist in inspections

While both roles work within nuclear power plants and require safety training, Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operators focus on monitoring and controlling reactor operations, whereas Nuclear Power Plant Technicians handle equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Both positions are essential for safe plant operation and often require similar certifications, but their daily tasks differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, strong math and science skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training preferred. Familiarity with control room systems, SCADA software, and regulatory compliance procedures is important, and successful candidates often pursue NRC operator licensing. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient plant operations and compliance with strict safety standards, which are critical in the nuclear energy industry.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Power Plant Operator

$43 - $49/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

Vistra Corp. is our corporate company and Luminant is our generation brand. This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA.
We offer amazing benefits that start on day one, a generous AIP bonus plan, 401(k) with $ for $ company match up to 6% (100% immediate vesting on employer contributions), generous PTO, and a highly competitive base salary. We also believe in promoting from within and provide an extremely generous yearly allowance of up to $10,000 to pursue your credentials or degree (not reimbursement - paid up front so you do not incur out-of-pocket expenses).
Pay range between $43 - $49 hourly, depending upon skills/experience.
Work in an environment where your efforts will be appreciated and your ideas encouraged! Every member of our team works hard. We support each other through trust, professional growth, and a can-do attitude.
This position is responsible for performing operations functions, preventive and corrective maintenance as applicable to job function to ensure proper functioning of plant equipment; will work under the direction of site management. This position is responsible for the proper function and maintenance of equipment at a Gas Plant for the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation.

Job Description

Job Description

Key Accountabilities

  • Inspects, repairs, and maintains various types of plant equipment

  • May direct the work of employees

  • Understands and is able to ensure proper operation of the plant. May be responsible for plant oversight in the absence of management

  • Repairs and calibrates equipment

  • Troubleshoots equipment and systems

  • Develops and implements plant operating procedures

  • Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and environmental procedures as they relate to plant operations and maintenance including but not limited to Lockout Tagout, Job Safety Analysis, Confined Space, Hot Work, Electrical Safety and PPE

  • Actively trains others in area of expertise

  • Performs technical work or analysis of processes in areas of expertise

  • Gains knowledge of the entire plant cycle and how it functions

Education, Experience, & Skill Requirements
The level of position will be determined by applicable skills/experience.

  • Minimum 2 years of related experience

  • Minimum of a High School diploma or equivalent

  • Experience gained through college degree programs and/or certifications is applicable to above skills

  • Demonstrate effective oral and verbal communications skills

  • If applicable, candidate will hold the required level of state license as recognized by the governing body of that particular state (MA, OH)

  • Preferred but not required - MA Class 1, 2, or 3 Engineer and/or Class 1 or 2 Fireman License

  • Ability to work 12-hour Shift required

  • Level/grade will be determined based on experience

  • Must pass POSS/MASS pre-employment test

Key Metrics

  • Satisfactory completion of appropriate Tier Job Performance Measures in primary job

  • Demonstrate continual self improvement in job skills and knowledge

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Job Family

Plant Operations

Company

Luminant Power LLC

Locations

Bellingham, MAMassachusetts
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.