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Entry Level Power Plant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Xcel Energy

Operations Instructor - Nuclear

Welch, MN

$84K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Candidates should possess expertise/familiarity with power plant operations. Technical expertise in ... entry-level knowledge. * Organizational and administrative skills are required to the extent needed ...

Xcel Energy

Operations Instructor - Nuclear

Welch, MN · On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Candidates should possess expertise/familiarity with power plant operations. Technical expertise in ... entry-level knowledge. * Organizational and administrative skills are required to the extent needed ...

Xcel Energy

Operations Instructor - Nuclear

Welch, MN · On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Candidates should possess expertise/familiarity with power plant operations. Technical expertise in ... entry-level knowledge. * Organizational and administrative skills are required to the extent needed ...

MedPersonnel

Maintenance Mechanic

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

... entry level to executive level positions. Under general supervision and following established ... Manual dexterity is required in the use and operation of hand and power tools and related plant ...

MedPersonnel

Maintenance Mechanic

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

... entry level to executive level positions. Under general supervision and following established ... Manual dexterity is required in the use and operation of hand and power tools and related plant ...

Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc.

Field Electrician

Hibbing, MN · On-site

$41.09 - $42.76/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... in the mine, plant, or assigned areas, including power transmission lines, transformers, and related equipment. Summary of Responsibilities : * Receives wiring diagrams, specifications, and ...

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All JobsPower Plant JobsEntry Level Power Plant JobsEntry Level Power Plant Jobs in Minnesota

Entry Level Power Plant information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$30

$49

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level power plant in Minnesota is $30.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level employees in a power plant, and how can they successfully overcome them?

Entry-level employees in a power plant often face challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to operate complex machinery, and understanding regulatory compliance requirements. To overcome these challenges, it is important to actively participate in training sessions, seek guidance from experienced colleagues, and ask questions when uncertain. Building strong communication skills and a keen attention to detail will help you excel in the team-based environment and ensure safe, efficient operations.

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 typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong math and mechanical skills, and basic knowledge of safety procedures. Familiarity with control systems, plant monitoring software, and, in some cases, certifications like the NERC System Operator Certification can be valuable. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with colleagues. These abilities are crucial for maintaining plant safety, efficiency, and reliable energy production.

What is an entry level power plant job?

Entry level power plant jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the power generation industry. These roles typically involve assisting with the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of equipment under the supervision of experienced staff. Common entry level positions include power plant operator trainee, maintenance assistant, or plant technician. Employees in these roles learn about safety procedures, equipment operation, and basic troubleshooting while gaining hands-on experience in a real-world setting. Most entry level jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training provided.

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

AspectEntry Level Power PlantEntry Level Electrical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, possibly certifications like OSHAHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications such as OSHA or electrical licenses
Work EnvironmentPower plants, industrial facilities, outdoor and indoor settingsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, maintenance environments
Employer & Industry UsagePower generation companies, energy sectorElectrical contractors, manufacturing, industrial plants
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Power Plant roles and Entry Level Electrical Technicians share similar credentials and work environments, often requiring technical training and certifications. Both work in industrial settings, but power plant positions focus on energy generation facilities, while electrical technicians may work across various industries. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right entry point in the electrical and energy sectors.

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

The most popular types of Power Plant jobs in Minnesota are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Power Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Power Plant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,789 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

General Plant Helper - Black Dog Plant - Burnsville, MN

Xcel Energy

Burnsville, MN • On-site

$28.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 53 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.

We anticipate the need for one or more General Plant Helper(s) to be located at the Black Dog Generating Plant. The Black Dog plant is located at: 1400 Black Dog Road, Burnsville, MN. The starting wage rate for this position will be $28.49 per hour according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement. This position will be posted for 10 working days from August 3, 2026, to August 14, 2026.

Company will have the sole right of selectivity in filling this position.

The Company intends to train and promote the successful qualified candidate into a position within the Operations or Maintenance department at the plant. This training schedule and classification will depend on the skillset and ability of the individual hired and the needs of the Company.

Please verify that your education and/or experience meets the minimum requirements listed below. Please do not apply if you do not possess the minimum requirements, or if you are not interested or able to be trained and promoted into the Operations or Maintenance department. Note that promotion into the Operations department would require working rotating shifts.

Position Summary:

Entry level responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: cleaning and monitoring of power generating equipment throughout the plant; general plant clean up; general maintenance duties as trained and assigned; snow removal; grass cutting and grounds keeping.

Position will be required to perform/accomplish the following: complete training and qualification in general mechanical maintenance skills; be trained on and operate plant equipment; actively participate in required training programs, which may include state boiler license certification, as directed by plant management; and participate in other training as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.

  • Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams or be a grandfathered employee.

  • Prefer post-secondary technical training in a related area.

  • Must have a valid driver's license.

  • Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test and security clearance. Other exams may be required by federal regulations, such as OSHA and DOT.

Special Requirements:

  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.

  • Work in inclement weather.

  • Must be qualified to wear a respirator.

  • Will be required to perform duties, when necessary, from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces.

  • Must be able to work overtime and various shifts as required including rotating shift work.

Selection criteria may include testing and/or assessment

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.

BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $28.49 per hourThis position is eligible for the following benefits: 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), 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, Vacation, Holidays, Additional days off, Sick Time, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO)

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: 08/14/26

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.

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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

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