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Generator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant System Operator

Marcy, NY ยท On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

As a NERC Generation Operator (GOP), Transmission Owner (TO), and Transmission Operator (TOP ... Check NYPA Generator Day Ahead Market (DAM)schedules. * Monitor NYPA generation (every 15 min) and ...

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Fuel Distribution Systems Operator (FDSO) Location: Naval Station Guantanamo Bay (GTMO), Cuba This ... generator Employment Type: Full Time Exempt"

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Generator Operator information

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How much do generator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for generator operator in the United States is $22.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is generator technician a good career?

Generator technicians install, maintain, and repair generators, often working in industrial or construction settings. The career offers steady employment opportunities, requires technical skills, and may involve certifications such as OSHA or specialized generator training. Job prospects are generally favorable for those with technical knowledge and safety awareness.

What is the difference between Generator Operator vs Power Plant Technician?

AspectGenerator OperatorPower Plant Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training; certifications like NCCER or OSHA may be preferredRequires technical certifications or associate degrees in power plant technology or related fields
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily outdoors or in power generation facilities, monitoring generators and equipmentWorks in power plants or maintenance facilities, performing repairs and system diagnostics
Industry UsageCommonly employed in energy production, manufacturing, and emergency power servicesFound in utility companies, power generation plants, and industrial facilities

Generator Operators focus on monitoring and operating generators, ensuring continuous power supply, often with minimal technical repairs. Power Plant Technicians perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on power generation equipment. Both roles are essential in energy production but differ in technical responsibilities and work scope.

What are Generator Operators?

Generator Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining electrical generators in various settings such as power plants, construction sites, or industrial facilities. Their duties include starting and stopping generators, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the equipment runs efficiently and safely. They also keep operational records and adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents and equipment damage. This role is essential for maintaining a reliable power supply in environments that depend on backup or primary generation systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Generator Operators during emergency situations?

Generator Operators often face the challenge of responding quickly and efficiently during power outages or emergency situations. They must troubleshoot under pressure, ensure safety protocols are followed, and coordinate with maintenance and electrical teams to restore power promptly. Effective communication and the ability to remain calm are critical, as unexpected technical issues or equipment failures can arise. Developing proficiency in emergency procedures and regular drills can help operators handle these high-stress scenarios successfully.

How much do generator techs make?

Generator technicians in Texas typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment they service. Skilled techs with specialized knowledge or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or commercial settings.

How long does it take to become a generator technician?

Becoming a generator technician typically requires completing a technical training program or apprenticeship that lasts from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the program and prior experience. Gaining hands-on experience and obtaining relevant certifications, such as a generator or electrical license, can also influence the timeline to become fully qualified.

What does a generator operator do?

A generator operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining generators to ensure a reliable power supply. They inspect equipment, troubleshoot issues, and follow safety protocols, often working in shifts and requiring technical skills and certifications. Their role is essential in industries like construction, manufacturing, and emergency power systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Generator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Generator Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in power generation or a related field. Familiarity with control panels, SCADA systems, and preventive maintenance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power generation equipment, minimizing downtime and maintaining critical services.
More about Generator Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Generator Operator jobs? Cities with the most Generator Operator job openings:
What states have the most Generator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Generator Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Generator Operator jobs? For Generator Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Generator Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,000 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Assistant System Operator

Assistant System Operator

New York Power Authority

Marcy, NY โ€ข On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Summary

Accountable for the daily management and coordination of NYPA's overall operations, including Overseeing, monitoring, and evaluating the operational performance; directing the preparation of operating budgets and proposals for capital expenditure and investments in infrastructure, technology, equipment, systems, or other assets and resources; analyzing and approving operational investments that best meet the organization's business needs.

As a NERC Generation Operator (GOP), Transmission Owner (TO), and Transmission Operator (TOP), monitor and control NYPA generation and transmission facilities. Coordinate and direct switching schedules with regional projects, local TO/TOP's, and NYISO. Directs generation and voltage support as needed to maintain reliability of the Bulk Electric System in a manner that will not exceed thermal and voltage limits or cause System Operating Limits (SOL's). Continually monitor transmission network applications to ensure normal operations.

Responsibilities
  • Control Center position with a focus on NERC Generator Operator (GOP) tasks and verbal coordination.
  • Utilize the ECC Energy Management System (EMS) and NYISO Management Information System (MIS) to monitor real-time status such as NYPA's Generation and basic Water Management.
  • Coordinate NYPA generation stop/starts.
  • Assess the amount of generation reserves bid by NYPA Generator Resource Management (GRM).
  • Check NYPA Generator Day Ahead Market (DAM)schedules.
  • Monitor NYPA generation (every 15 min) and ensure the units are on schedule.
  • Coordinate and document derates and NYISO out of merits.
  • Assess metering and after-the-fact readings to validate accuracy.
  • Demonstrate basic understanding and navigation of the EMS one-line diagrams.
  • Calculate water in BG reservoir for reserves and to meet NYISO schedules.
  • Adhere to NERC, NPCC, NYISO, and NYPA requirements. Fulfill and demonstrate competencies in all formally identified tasks.
  • Learn and maintain a basic understanding of NYPA Operating Policies and Control Room Guides, Instructions, Bulletins, and NYISO memos.
  • Must work rotating shifts, including nights, midnights, weekends, and holidays.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Basic knowledge of power system generation and transmission concepts
  • Ability to successfully complete NYISO System Operator Training
  • Good written & verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to learn 3-Part communication.
  • Working knowledge of Office programs for PC (Word/Excel etc.)
  • Ability to learn/use Energy Management System
  • Ability to verbally communicate effectively with the NYPA Regional Projects and outside entities such as NYISO and GRM.
  • Ability to review NYPA outage coordination summary sheets to identify generation that is planned out of service.

Education, Experience and Certifications

Required

  • Associate (AAS) degree: Electrical Technology or equivalent Science/Technology field desired
  • Min 1 year equivalent direct electric grid/power system related work experience will be considered with non-technical degree.
  • All candidates are required to possess or be able to obtain a NERC Transmission Operator Certification within one year of hire.

Preferred Experience:

  • Bachelor's (BAS) degree in Electrical Engineering, other Engineering disciplines, or related technical fields
  • Control Center Experience working as an Operator.
  • Utility/Power plant experience working in operation/maintenance, high voltage electrician, instrument controls technician, etc.
  • Military technical or nuclear training.
  • Experience with rotating Shift work.


Physical Requirements
  • Approximately 10% travel primarily within NY State.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time (up to 12 hours) in front of computer monitors while maintaining situational awareness; communicating effectively while speaking English (per NERC requirement); see, hear, and react to alarms.

Hiring Manager:Daniel Walters
Department:Transmission
Grade Level:OM09P1

The New York Power Authority is committed to providing fair, competitive, and market-informed compensation. The estimated salary range for this position is: $73,000 - $100,100. The salary offered will be determined based on the successful candidates' relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

The New York Power Authority and Canal Corporation believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents and veterans to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, NYPA/Canals is committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect communities across New York and enthusiastically serve them. We proudly celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race/color, creed/religion, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, age, disability, military status, gender/sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy and related conditions, familial/marital status, domestic violence victim status, predisposing genetic characteristics, arrest/criminal conviction record or any other category protected by law.
NYPA/Canals will also provide reasonable accommodations during the hiring process related to candidates' disabilities, pregnancy-related conditions, religious observances/practices and/or domestic violence concerns. To request an accommodation, please emailaccessibility@nypa.gov.