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Generator Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$79K - $107K/yr

... rooms, back-up generator, fire pump(s), sump pump(s), and ejector pumps. Replace lamps, light ... Operator, etc.) * May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC ...

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

... rooms, back-up generator, fire pump(s), sump pump(s), and ejector pumps. Replace lamps, light ... Operator, etc.) • May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC ...

... Operator License or Data Center Operations certifications. * 2+ years of experience working directly with critical infrastructure, including data centers, heavy HVAC, and generator/UPS backups.

... Operator License or Data Center Operations certifications. * 2+ years of experience working directly with critical infrastructure, including data centers, heavy HVAC, and generator/UPS backups.

Showing results 41-60

Generator Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$22

$25

How much do generator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for generator operator in Virginia is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $24.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a generator operator?

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 long does it take to become a generator operator?

Becoming a generator operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical courses that can last from a few weeks to several months. Some positions may also require certification or licensing, which can take additional time to obtain depending on the region and specific requirements.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Generator Operator jobs in VA?

For Generator Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Generator Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,788 per year, or $22 per hour.

1214 - Supervisor, Critical Facilities Operations

NTT Data, Inc.

Gainesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


NTT Data rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 223 rated it services


Job description

Make an impact at NTT Global Data Centers
Join NTT Global Data Centers and be part of a team that drives innovation and sustainability in the digital world. With over 150 data centers across more than 20 countries globally, we offer unparalleled opportunities to work on cutting-edge technology and transformative projects. Experience a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive workplace where your ideas are valued, and your growth is supported.
Your role at a glance
Supervises and ensures the day to day operations, maintenance, and improvements to the physical infrastructure of the data center. Additionally, provides training, expertise and experience to the Data Center Technicians and the Facilities Technicians. Regular, predictable attendance is essential for satisfactory performance.
What we are looking for
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Supervises the Data Center Technicians and the Facilities Technicians.
  • Operates and maintains data center in such a condition as to assure the most optimal uptime to customers for facilities services (electrical, cooling, etc. measured by Five 9's).
  • Tasks out the CFOps team in such a way that complies with all local, state, and federal requirements for fire, health and Life Safety.
  • Provides tasking for the daily operations and maintenance scheduling of non-critical and critical maintenance.
  • Ensures the CFOps team works effectively to achieve the CFOps goals, reviewing budget, staff planning, NPS, efficiency, etc.
  • Analyzes data center equipment to obtain maximum effectiveness and efficiency; safety, cost, equipment longevity, and reliability.
  • Conducts in-depth training with the Data Center Technicians on equipment, PM's, QA and CFOps procedures/processes.
  • Manages and maintains all training documentation; provides documentation to HR.
  • Ensures data center operates at maximum efficiency, including: analyzing existing operating conditions, recommending new technologies, maintaining customer SLA requirements, and improving overall efficiency while maintaining budget expectations.
  • Works with customers to provide successful installs that exceed expectations - delight the customer.
  • Supervises the safety and well-being of all CFOps team.
  • Responsible for shift assignments, timekeeping review & approval and PTO approval for all assigned Data Center Technicians and Facilities Technicians.
  • Writes and Reviews non-critical and critical Method of Procedures (MOP's), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Standard Method of Procedure (SMP) and provides input.
  • Supervises the execution of non-critical and critical Method of Procedures and ensures their thorough completion.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • Strong background in electrical and mechanical systems design review, layout, installation, commissioning and operations
  • Expert knowledge of low voltage systems, including fire, security and PLCs
  • Expert knowledge of NFPA Electrical, Fire and Life Safety and building codes
  • Expert knowledge of NEC, NFPA 70E, NFPA 72, NFPA 25 and compliance issues
  • Expert knowledge in industrial safety best practices (i.e. lockout/tag out, arc flash protection, OSHA and state regulations)
  • Experienced with data trending / tracking and analysis and ability to rapidly learn and use PC based, integrated critical monitoring systems
  • Strong supervisor skills
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
  • Extensive hands-on experience installing, maintaining and troubleshooting large commercial and industrial mechanical & electrical systems including:
  • 12kV switchgear
  • 480/277 and 208/120 volt electrical generation and distribution systems
  • Diesel powered AC generator plants up to 2MW
  • Static UPS systems
  • Multi-string flooded cell batteries and monitoring systems
  • Static switches
  • PLC and relay logic controls
  • Power monitoring systems
  • Data center power distribution and management systems
  • VFD Drives
  • Large Centrifugal Chillers
  • Cooling Towers
  • Water Treatment Systems
  • HVAC equipment
  • Computer Room AC Units (CRACs)
  • Kyoto Cooling Units (where applicable)
  • Operating Building Management and Industrial PLC Control Systems
  • Emergency Standby Diesel Generator Systems
  • Fuel/Oil systems, Fuel/Oil Day tanks and Fuel/Oil Storage Tanks
  • Knowledge of NFPA 25, sprinkler and dry-stand pipe systems, including Emergency Fire Pump where applicable
  • Chilled/Condenser Water Pump
  • Well/Vault or Sump Pumps
  • Domestic Water systems, including BackFlow Prevention devices
  • Proficient with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)
  • Ability to train the electrical and mechanical teams on the systems and the procedures
  • Ability to conduct power & fire system capacity, safety and code compliance assessments
  • Ability to operate in and promote a rigorous process-driven, team environment
  • Ability to logically analyze and solve problems
  • Ability to multi-task multiple projects
  • Detailed oriented

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree or equivalent work experience normally obtained with 5-6 years' related experience.
  • A minimum of 5 or more years in a mechanical/electrical position within critical facilities, including Power or critical electrical power/mechanical environment (preference given to data center, hospital, semi- conductor or power plant experience).
  • Minimum of two or more years as a foreman, lead or senior level technician in a critical facility environment.
  • Certified Electrician preferred in state where assigned.
  • CPR/First Aid and NFPA70E Certification during employment.
  • Forklift Certified.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Primarily walking, standing, and bending with some sitting.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with verbal, visual and listening skills
  • Able to lift heavy equipment, up to 50 pounds.
  • Close visual work on a computer terminal.
  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate any required equipment as well as to operate computer keyboard, mouse, and other technical instruments.
  • Ability to climb ladders and work on raised platform.

WORK CONDITIONS
  • Typical data center work environment with varying temperatures and loud noises.
  • Extensive daily usage of a computer or workstation.
  • Work on site; no telecommuting.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be comfortable working in a highly critical, fast paced environment shifting priorities
  • Must be able to respond to emergency situations at the data center.
  • Must be willing to be part of the after-hours notification and escalation protocol.
  • Must carry a cell phone for availability during assigned shift and emergency situations.
  • Must be willing to work outside normal business hours, including weekends, late nights, holidays.
  • Must wear leather close-toed shoes with a solid rubber sole.
  • A valid driver's license is required for onsite leaders with direct reports to support employee transportation and meet company needs.

Compensation Pay Range
This position requires work to be done onsite at a data center facility and may require use of a personal mobile device. A monthly stipend will be provided to cover expenses incurred for using a personal device, if applicable.
NTT Global Data Centers Americas, Inc. offers competitive compensation based on experience, education, and location. The base salary for this position is $108,900 - $155,600.
All regular full-time employees are eligible for an annual bonus; payout is dependent upon individual and company performance.
Employees receive paid time-off, medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and supplemental insurance, short-term and long-term disability, flexible spending account, and 401k retirement plan to create a rich Total Rewards package.
Who we are
As the third largest data center provider, we operate over 150 data centers in more than 20 countries and regions. We understand that every business - large and small - has its own unique needs and goals. We offer local-to-global data center expertise, aligned with our connected platform of AI-ready data centers to create solutions that enable our clients to seamlessly scale their digital businesses, anywhere and anytime.
NTT Global Data Centers is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer with a global culture that embraces diversity. We are committed to providing an environment free of unfair discrimination and harassment. We do not discriminate based on age, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, disability, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected category. Join our growing global team and accelerate your career with us. Apply today.

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About NTT DATA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NTT DATA Services is a global business and IT services provider specializing in digital, cloud and automation across a comprehensive portfolio of consulting, applications, infrastructure and business process services. We are part of the NTT family of companies, a partner to 85 % of the Fortune 100.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Plano, TX, US

Year founded

1967