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Entry Level Power Plant Operator Jobs in Nebraska

Control Operator

Hastings, NE · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor plant operations using DCS systems, including fermentation, distillation, evaporation ... Strong understanding of industrial process operations (ethanol, chemical, or power preferred)

Feed Mill Operator

Minatare, NE · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

This is a key entry-level position to develop Feedmill Operators. If you would like to learn more ... Plant. · Operate mobile equipment, including skid steers, loaders, and forklifts, in a safe and ...

Material Handler

Sutherland, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... Power Plant in Sutherland. $1200 hiring bonus. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Abiding by Company Safety Program and Policies, while performing duties safely. Operating rubber tire front end ...

Material Handler

Sutherland, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... Power Plant in Sutherland. $1200 hiring bonus. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Abiding by Company Safety Program and Policies, while performing duties safely. Operating rubber tire front end ...

Material Handler

Sutherland, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... ash products at the Power Plant in Sutherland. $1200 hiring bonus. Essential Duties ... Must have previous experience operating construction machinery or equipment-front end loader, motor ...

Mill Operator

York, NE

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Keeping your work area organized and small power tools in proper working condition. * Recording ... paid plant shut down Schedule: Monday - Thursday 6am - 3:30pm Friday 7am - 11am Weekends off ...

Master Machine Operator - Days

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Adheres to all company and plant polices related to GMP's, any work rules and procedures ... We are McCain: this statement is about our power collectively and our importance individually-your ...

Master Machine Operator - Days

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Adheres to all company and plant polices related to GMP's, any work rules and procedures ... We are McCain: this statement is about our power collectively and our importance individually-your ...

... production lines; operate powered industrial trucks and motorized pallet jacks; follow all ... plant leadership. WORK EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE: Forklift/pallet jack experience is required. All ...

... production lines; operate powered industrial trucks and motorized pallet jacks; follow all ... plant leadership. WORK EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE: Forklift/pallet jack experience is required. All ...

... production lines; operate powered industrial trucks and motorized pallet jacks; follow all ... plant leadership. WORK EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE: Forklift/pallet jack experience is required. All ...

... production lines; operate powered industrial trucks and motorized pallet jacks; follow all ... plant leadership. WORK EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE: Forklift/pallet jack experience is required. All ...

Material Handler

Sutherland, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... ash products at the Power Plant in Sutherland. $1200 hiring bonus. Essential Duties ... Must have previous experience operating construction machinery or equipment-front end loader, motor ...

Material Handler

Sutherland, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... ash products at the Power Plant in Sutherland. $1200 hiring bonus. Essential Duties ... Must have previous experience operating construction machinery or equipment-front end loader, motor ...

Material Handler Foreman

Sutherland, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

NEBCO is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business, with more than 1,100 employees ... This position will be located at a power plant which requires the applicant to pass a background ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Power Plant Operator information

See Nebraska salary details

$11

$16

$20

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level power plant operator in Nebraska is $16.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level power plant operator?

An Entry Level Power Plant Operator monitors and controls power generation equipment under supervision. Responsibilities include adjusting controls, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring the plant operates safely and efficiently. Operators learn to interpret gauges, troubleshoot minor issues, and follow safety protocols. This role is a great starting point for a career in power generation, with opportunities for advancement through training and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level power plant operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Power Plant Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with control systems, safety protocols, and possibly OSHA or other industry-specific training will support your technical responsibilities. Strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure will set you apart in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining safe operations, troubleshooting equipment issues, and ensuring the reliability of power generation.

What does a typical work shift look like for an entry level power plant operator?

Entry Level Power Plant Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure the plant runs continuously. During their shift, they monitor equipment readings, inspect machinery, log operational data, and assist with basic maintenance tasks under the guidance of senior operators. The work environment is typically industrial, with an emphasis on safety procedures and teamwork. Operators may collaborate closely with maintenance crews and control room staff, providing valuable experience and learning opportunities that support future advancement in the field.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Power Plant Operator jobs in Nebraska?

For Entry Level Power Plant Operator jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Power Plant Operator jobs in Nebraska look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Power Plant Operator jobs in Nebraska are:

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Entry Level Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Entry Level Power Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Power Plant Operator job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,636 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Chief Industries rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Oversees and controls the ethanol production process from a centralized control room. This role ensures safe, efficient, and continuous operation of plant equipment through monitoring systems, data analysis, and coordination with field operators.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Monitor plant operations using DCS systems, including fermentation, distillation, evaporation, drying, and utilities.
  • Adjust process parameters (flows, temperatures, pressures, chemical dosing) to maintain optimal production.
  • Respond to alarms and troubleshoot process deviations in real time.
  • Communicate with field operators to coordinate equipment inspections, manual adjustments, and maintenance activities.
  • Record operational data including production rates, energy usage, equipment status, and downtime events.
  • Start up and shut down equipment following established procedures.
  • Ensure safety compliance by following SOPs, lockout/tagout, confined space, and emergency protocols.
  • Collaborate with maintenance to report equipment issues and support repairs.
  • Maintain product quality by monitoring lab results and adjusting processes accordingly.
  • Participate in shift handovers with clear documentation and verbal briefings.
  • Strong understanding of industrial process operations (ethanol, chemical, or power preferred).
  • Ability to interpret P&IDs, process trends, and instrumentation data.
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.

Education:
  • High school diploma, or GED, required.

The Company:
Putting the needs of customers first has taken Chief Industries, Inc. from a small construction company in 1954, to a highly diverse company with a reputation for manufacturing quality products and offering unparalleled customer service. Through its many divisions and subsidiaries, Chief Industries employs over 1,400 skilled and dedicated employees who produce a wide variety of products, many of which are used around the world.
A Brand of Chief Industries, Chief Ethanol is committed to producing quality renewable fuel and produces approximately 140 million gallons of ethanol annually. Chief Ethanol Fuels, Inc. was Nebraska's first dry-mill ethanol plant and remains committed to producing renewable fuel and high-quality feed today. The plant is a continuous flow Vogelbusch process.
Our Benefits:
This full-time position is eligible for full company benefits, including
  • Paid vacation/time off policies
  • 401(k) retirement plan plus company match
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Company-paid short-term disability benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Financial wellness coaching
  • Employee assistance program
  • Paid holidays (8)
  • Employee discounts
  • Education assistance
  • And much more.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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