Entry Level Power Plant Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Posting Details
Job Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194991SP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Utilities Plant Operator - Night Shift
Anticipated Hiring Range
$55,000 - $60,000
Work Schedule
12 hour shift, 3-4 days a week; 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
Utilities & Engineering Services
About the Department
The NC State University Facilities Division is home to nearly 900 professionals who plan, buildandmaintainthe spaces that foster an environment where innovation, learning, and community thrive. Through this work, we help create spaces that empower students, faculty, and staff to reach their full potential. Operating year-round, we manage more than 16.7 million gross square feet of built space and oversee 4,733 acres of campus infrastructure through a series of core departments, each composed of multiple specialized units:

• Design & Construction
• Business Operations
• Campus Operations and Maintenance
• Campus Planning and Strategic Investment

Whether responding to a maintenance request, shaping future facilities or creating spaces that inspire discovery, our team is grounded in excellence, service and stewardship.
Join the pack and become part of one of the largest and most respected employers in the state, helping shape the future of our campus community. Take a look below to see what we offer!
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Propositionand learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
Are you looking to power the future of a world-class campus? We are seeking a skilled Utility Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you won't just be maintaining equipment-you'll be the backbone of our university's infrastructure, ensuring the lights stay on and the campus stays comfortable.
As a Utility Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the reliable operation of our central utility systems. From managing our advanced Cates Cogeneration Facility to overseeing massive chilled water systems, your expertise will directly impact thousands of students, faculty, and researchers every day.
Key responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to:

• Control, monitor, and operate steam boilers, chillers, cogeneration equipment, and auxiliary systems to provide continuous utility services.
• Maintain safe and efficient operation of steam, hot water, and chilled water production systems.
• Perform real-time monitoring of plant systems, make operational adjustments, and ensure compliance with emissions, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Inspect, operate, and perform routine maintenance on plant equipment, including fuel gas compressors, pumps, air filters, cooling towers, and related systems.
• Support the operation of the Cates Cogeneration Facility to produce electricity and steam for campus use.
• Identify and respond to equipment or system issues, escalating concerns to the shift supervisor as appropriate.

Why Join Us?
This is more than a maintenance job; it's an opportunity to work with cutting-edge energy technology in a stable, supportive environment.Ready to power our campus? Apply today!
Other Responsibilities

• Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications
Minimum Experience/Education
High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Maintains required certification(s).
Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with combustion gas turbines/cogeneration.
• Experience in steam production (natural gas/fuel oil fire tube and water tube boilers up to 100kpph).
• Experience in chilled water production (electric driven/turbine driven up to 2000 tons).
• Experience in a central plant environment.

Required License or Certification

• A valid driver's license is required.
• North Carolina Drivers' License required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.

Valid NC Driver's License required
Yes
Commercial Driver's License Required?
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
05/08/2026
Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.)
07/02/2026
Notice to Applicants
Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase "see resume".
Special Instructions
Please include as attachments a resume/CV and contact information for at least 3 professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00102781
Position Type
SHRA
Position Classification Band Title
Utilities Plant Operator
Position Classification Band Level
Advanced
Position Classification Salary Range
$ 38,064 - $ 82,128
Salary Grade Equivalency
NC10
Alternate Option
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.00
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Utilities/Infrastructure Failure
Time Limited Position
No
Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable)
Department Id
445050 - Utilities and Engineering
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.