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Fourth Class Power Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

Our engineers solve challenging technology problems, and take big bets on new concepts, enabling ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

Our engineers solve challenging technology problems, and take big bets on new concepts, enabling ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

Senior Power Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$109K - $150K/yr

You'll define the power system architecture for a 15kW-class spacecraft bus - topology, bus voltage, battery sizing, power electronics, and fault protection. You own the architecture decisions, the ...

Trimmer (All Levels)

Georgetown, TX · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

In this position, you may be exposed to hazards of working near traffic, falling limbs, and energized power lines. As a Trimmer D/4th Class, attention to detail and adherence to safety guidelines is ...

Trimmer (All Levels)

Salem, OH · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

In this position, you may be exposed to hazards of working near traffic, falling limbs, and energized power lines. As a Trimmer D/4th Class, attention to detail and adherence to safety guidelines is ...

Trimmer (All Levels)

Brandenburg, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

In this position, you may be exposed to hazards of working near traffic, falling limbs, and energized power lines. As a Trimmer D/4th Class, attention to detail and adherence to safety guidelines is ...

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Fourth Class Power Engineer information

See salary details

$105K

$125.2K

$144.5K

How much do fourth class power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for fourth class power engineer in the United States is $125,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Fourth Class Power Engineers?

Fourth Class Power Engineers are certified professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and monitoring boilers, turbines, refrigeration, and other power generation equipment in buildings or industrial facilities. They ensure that all systems run safely and efficiently, performing routine inspections and troubleshooting issues as they arise. In Canada, Fourth Class is an entry-level certification, and these engineers often work under the supervision of higher-class power engineers. Their duties can include recording readings, adjusting controls, and following strict safety protocols. This role is critical for the smooth operation of heating, ventilation, and power systems in various settings.

What is the difference between Fourth Class Power Engineer vs Third Class Power Engineer?

AspectFourth Class Power EngineerThird Class Power Engineer
Required CertificationsFourth Class Power Engineer CertificateThird Class Power Engineer Certificate
Work EnvironmentSmall to medium facilities, boilers, HVAC systemsLarger facilities, complex systems, industrial plants
Employer & Industry UsageCommercial buildings, small industrial plantsIndustrial, manufacturing, large commercial facilities

The main difference between a Fourth Class Power Engineer and a Third Class Power Engineer lies in certification level and scope of work. A Fourth Class Power Engineer typically works in smaller facilities with less complex systems, requiring a Fourth Class certification. In contrast, a Third Class Power Engineer has a higher certification, allowing them to operate larger and more complex systems in industrial settings. Both roles are essential in maintaining safe and efficient plant operations, with the Third Class having broader responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Fourth Class Power Engineers face during their daily operations, and how can they effectively manage them?

Fourth Class Power Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent boiler operation, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Handling unexpected alarms or mechanical issues under time pressure is a regular part of the job. Effective communication with senior engineers and maintenance teams is crucial for resolving issues promptly and minimizing downtime. Staying organized, following preventative maintenance schedules, and continuously updating technical knowledge can help manage these challenges efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fourth Class Power Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fourth Class Power Engineer, you need solid knowledge of boiler operation, thermodynamics, and safety procedures, typically supported by a Fourth Class Power Engineer certificate. Familiarity with control systems, instrumentation, and maintenance tools is crucial for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power plant equipment.
More about Fourth Class Power Engineer jobs
What states have the most Fourth Class Power Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Fourth Class Power Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fourth Class Power Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,176 per year, or $60.2 per hour.
R&D Power Engineer

$97K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lead the specification, design, implementation, and testing of protective relays for electric power systems.

  • Maintain a detailed understanding of electric power systems and how to protect, monitor and control the power system.

  • Conceive and develop concepts for new product ideas and enhancements.

  • Serve as the project technical lead.

  • Develop papers on innovative power system protection solutions & present at conferences & seminars.

  • Model, teach, and apply SEL Values, Principles of Operation and World Class Manufacturing principles.

  • Understand. Create. Simplify.

  • Other duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • B.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.

  • Typically, 10+ years' experience in electrical power systems, protection practices, and philosophies.

  • Knowledge of power system analysis, power system protection, and power system stability.

  • Excellent technical training, speaking and writing skills.

  • Experience leading projects with cross-discipline teams.

  • Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities.

  • Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.

  • Background check results satisfactory to SEL.

  • Negative drug test result(s).


Preferred Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of SEL products.

  • Experience in power system modeling.

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.

  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.

  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.

  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data

Power Engineer $97,740 - $144,460

Lead Power Engineer $115,300 - $170,400

Development Lead Engineer $136,100 - $201,100

Senior Engineer $160,600 - $237,300

We are open to reviewing additional candidates with more or less experience and the pay range may differ if filled at a different level. Our pay ranges are determined by job and responsibility. We base our starting pay offer and title on job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAMfilteror reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.


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