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Entry Level Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations ... Continue educational and professional development beyond the level of basis (entry level) training.

Operator Helper

Lawton, OK · On-site

$30.76/hr

... entry level position in power plant operation. WHAT YOU'LL DO : * Assist equipment operators while learning the following job duties: * Isolate, clean, open, replace, inspect, close and return to ...

Operator Helper

Oologah, OK · On-site

$30.76/hr

... entry level position in power plant operation. WHAT YOU'LL DO: * Assist equipment operators while learning the following job duties: * Isolate, clean, open, replace, inspect, close and return to ...

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Job Duties/Responsibilities 1. Troubleshoot, identify, maintain, and make repairs to power plant ... MO I-II: 0-2 years of experience in an operations or similar field or entry level with a background ...

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Job Duties/Responsibilities 1. Troubleshoot, identify, maintain, and make repairs to power plant ... MO I-II: 0-2 years of experience in an operations or similar field or entry level with a background ...

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Entry Level Power Plant information

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

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level power plant in the United States is $31.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do entry level plant workers make?

Entry-level power plant workers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting salaries may include additional benefits such as overtime pay and training opportunities, and certifications like OSHA safety training can enhance earning potential.

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 jobs make $3,000 a day?

Entry level power plant jobs typically do not pay $3,000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with highly specialized roles like senior engineers, project managers, or consultants in the energy sector, often requiring extensive experience, certifications, and advanced skills. Most entry-level positions in power plants offer salaries significantly below this amount, with high earnings generally linked to seniority and expertise.

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

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 are entry level power plant jobs?

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.

How to start working at a power plant?

To start working at an entry-level power plant position, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require technical training or certifications such as OSHA safety training. Applying through company job boards or staffing agencies, gaining relevant skills like mechanical or electrical knowledge, and being prepared for physical work and shift schedules are important steps.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level power plant jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or certifications. High-paying roles in energy or industrial sectors often require technical training, experience, or licenses, and salaries vary based on location and responsibilities. Most positions offering such high weekly pay usually involve advanced skills or supervisory roles.

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.

More about Entry Level Power Plant jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Power Plant jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Power Plant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant jobs? The most popular types of Power Plant jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Power Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Power Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Power Plant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,130 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
ECC BA Operator Trainee

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Arizona Public Service

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Arizona Public Service rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Our present and future success depends on the creative and dedicated people of our company who demonstrate the principles outlined in the APS Promise: Design for Tomorrow, Empower Each Other and Succeed Together.
Summary
APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is responsible for maintaining generation-load-frequency control, ensuring accurate transmission scheduling and participating in the Energy Imbalance Market.
We would like to speak with you if you have :
  • Experience operating a Balancing Authority and making real-time control decisions to maintain system reliability within design limits.
  • Knowledge of FERC, NERC, and WECC policies, and a proven track record of adhering to regulatory procedures in power system operations.
  • Authority and confidence to initiate emergency load reduction when energy resources fall short of demand, ensuring grid stability under pressure.
  • Expertise in monitoring generation and reserves, and ensuring compliance with interconnected system agreements and power pool criteria.
  • Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations.

The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to complete qualifications within assigned time frames.
* This position works on rotating 12 hours shifts
Minimum Requirements
  • High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations, system electric field work or other electric operations work OR BS/BA/AA in related technical field or operations/business management and two (2) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations, system electric field work or other electric operations work management
  • Ability to obtain the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) certification within six (6) months of hire and to complete all continuing education as required by NERC and the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC).
  • Continue educational and professional development beyond the level of basis (entry level) training.
  • Ability to work rotating shifts.

Preferred Special Skills, Knowledge or Qualifications:
  • Two years' experience as a NERC certified operator within the WECC.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of basic algebra and trigonometry; demonstrated effective verbal and written communication skills; PC literate.

Major Accountabilities
1) Analyze conditions; take control action to operate the APS Balancing Authority within design limits.
2) To follow all FERC, NERC and WECC operating policies and procedures.
3) Exercise full authority to implement emergency load reduction when energy resources cannot meet load requirements.
4) Continually monitor on-line generation to ensure required system operating reserves; and ensure the interconnected system and associated power pool operating agreements, criteria and guidelines are met.
5) Interface with system marketers to ensure proper communications with regard to power plant status and generating unit commitment, and Energy Imbalance Market activities.
6) Provide complete and accurate documentation of all system events, problems, transactions, commitments, and communications relating to real time system operations, generation and scheduling of APS and interconnected system energy resources. Documentation is for management, state and federal regulatory review.
7) Update available transmission postings, process requests for transmission service, and implement transmission and energy interchange schedules in computer.
Export Compliance / EEO Statement
This position may require access to and/or use of information subject to control under the Department of Energy's Part 810 Regulations (10 CFR Part 810), the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) (15 CFR Parts 730 through 774), or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (22 CFR Chapter I, Subchapter M Part 120) (collectively, 'U.S. Export Control Laws'). Therefore, some positions may require applicants to be a U.S. person, which is defined as a U.S. Citizen, a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), a Political Asylee, or a Refugee under the U.S. Export Control Laws. All applicants will be required to confirm their U.S. person or non-US person status. All information collected in this regard will only be used to ensure compliance with U.S. Export Control Laws, and will be used in full compliance with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of national origin and other factors. For positions at Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Stations (PVNGS) all openings will require applicants to be a U.S. person.
Pinnacle West Capital Corporation and its subsidiaries and affiliates ('Pinnacle West') maintain a continuing policy of nondiscrimination in employment. It is our policy to provide equal opportunity in all phases of the employment process and in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. This policy of nondiscrimination shall include, but not be limited to, recruiting, hiring, promoting, compensating, reassigning, demoting, transferring, laying off, recalling, terminating employment, and training for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, disability, age, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other classification or characteristic protected by law.
For more information on applicable equal employment regulations, please refer to EEO is the Law poster. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of every person hired to work in the United States, refer to E-Verify poster. View the employee rights and responsibilities under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
In compliance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, the Company is committed to a work environment that is free from the effects of alcohol and controlled substances, and free from the abuse or inappropriate use of prescribed and over-the-counter medications. The Company requires employees to be subject to drug and alcohol testing that is job-related and consistent with business necessity, regulatory requirements and applicable laws.
CIP Requirement:
This position requires Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) access consistent with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards. The applicant considered for this role will be required to obtain and maintain CIP access for the duration of employment in this position. A full seven (7) year criminal history will be obtained through the pre-employment background check process (or, for current employees, through supplemental background check process) to fulfill the CIP access requirements. In addition, this position requires an additional background check every seven years to maintain access.
Location-Based Role:
This position requires employees to work at the (Location), with some flexibility. Flexibility will be determined with the hires employee and leadership, but the ultimate decision is the company's.
Testing Information
Tests are only administered to referred candidates. More information about our tests and the testing process can be found HERE.
A written [paper and pencil] test will be administered.
A test using a computer with keyboard will be administered.
E-mail will be the method of contact with job applicants for test scheduling. Please be sure to check your e-mail regularly so that you receive scheduling notifications for testing and updated job information.

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