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Generator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do generator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% 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.
Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (EI&C) Supervisor

Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (EI&C) Supervisor

NAES

Linden, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


NAES rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Linden Cogeneration Plant is a 980 MW natural gas combined-cycle cogeneration facility located within the Phillips 66 Refinery in Linden, NJ. In addition to generating electricity, the plant provides process steam to the refinery. The plant is equipped with five GE 7EA gas turbine generators and one GE 7FA gas turbine generator, each exhausting into a Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG). The HRSGs are connected to a common steam header, which supplies steam to three steam turbines and the adjacent refinery.
Opportunity Summary
The Electrical, Instrumentation and Controls (EI&C) Supervisor at the Linden Cogeneration Plant oversees maintenance and reliability for a 980 MW combined-cycle facility, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operation of electrical and control systems. This role provides technical leadership and direction to maintenance personnel, supporting North American Electric Reliability Corporation compliance as a Generator Operator while coordinating with operations and plant leadership. The position offers the opportunity to drive equipment performance and operational excellence while leading a skilled, unionized workforce.
Your scope of responsibility as EI&C Supervisor includes the following primary functions:
  • Direct and prioritize daily electrical and I&C maintenance activities through the Electrical Technician Lead and I&C Technician Lead based on plant conditions, operational needs, and reliability risk.
  • Provide technical oversight and subject matter expertise for electrical and I&C systems, including troubleshooting support, equipment condition evaluation, and maintenance strategy development.
  • Administer and continuously improve the preventive and predictive maintenance program for all electrical systems in alignment with North American Electric Reliability Corporation standards applicable to the Generator Operator (GOP) function, while developing and maintaining compliance-driven maintenance programs and records to ensure audit readiness and regulatory adherence.
  • Establish and enforce technician qualification standards, ensuring all electrical and I&C personnel are properly trained and qualified to perform assigned work.
  • Maintain working knowledge of the IBEW Local 94 Collective Bargaining Agreement and ensure maintenance activities comply with labor provisions and work rules.
  • Govern all maintenance activities through the CMMS, ensuring proper work order planning, execution, documentation, and compliance with approved procedures and safe work permit requirements.
  • Oversee lifecycle management of water chemistry instrumentation and coordinate with operations personnel and third-party chemistry contractors to ensure proper calibration, inspection, maintenance, and performance of water treatment and monitoring systems.
  • Execute and document corrective maintenance actions in response to equipment failures, abnormal conditions, or emergent operational risks in accordance with established policies.
  • Monitor plant thermal and electrical performance, analyze operating and maintenance data, and identify degradation trends, failure modes, and improvement opportunities to sustain optimal efficiency and availability.
  • Communicate abnormal, degraded, or emergency plant conditions to the Maintenance Manager and plant leadership in a timely and structured manner.
  • Develop, maintain, and update maintenance procedures, forms, tracking tools, manuals, policies, and procedures, ensuring accurate configuration control and proper archival within the CMMS.
  • Prepare, validate, and compile maintenance reports, performance summaries, and compliance documentation to support Plant Manager reporting to owners, operators, and regulatory entities.
  • Ensure full compliance with environmental QA/QC programs and all applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Promote a positive work environment by supporting morale, engagement, and communication, and assisting with recruiting and onboarding electrical and I&C technicians.
  • Integrate operational feedback and equipment performance data to refine maintenance strategies, prevent recurring issues, and improve overall plant reliability.
  • Coordinate maintenance execution priorities with operational requirements to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable plant performance across all generating assets.

  • Complete other tasks as requested or assigned by the Maintenance Manager.

NAES Safe
Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. All NAES managers and supervisors have a direct and important role in ensuring that all work is performed in a healthy and safe manner. Effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each Supervisor's performance.
Working Relationships
The EI&C Supervisor reports to the Maintenance Manager and supervises subordinate EI&C Technicians. The EI&C Supervisor partners with the Plant Administrator, Operations Supervisor and Maintenance Supervisor as needed in the daily operation of the plant.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, working from elevated platforms and walkways at varying heights, and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds.
Power plant environment that may involve entering confined spaces, crawling through narrow areas, and handling hazardous materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near equipment and varying outdoor weather conditions.
Some duties may require the use of protective equipment, which can include hard hats, safety glasses, and eye protection, air masks/respirators, ear protection, chemical suits, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), hot gloves, high-voltage protective gear, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions apply in and around the facility.
Fitness for Duty
All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.
Work Schedule
The EI&C Supervisor works a standard Monday to Friday day shift schedule, ensuring consistent plant operation and support during regular business hours. This position will also occasionally necessitate extended working hours and flexible shifts as needed, including weekends and holidays, in response to schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or "On call" status will also be required.
Compensation
This position offers an annual base salary ranging from $170,000 to $185,000 and includes eligibility for an annual performance bonus.
Professional Expertise and Leadership Competencies
We are looking for a results-oriented supervisor with experience in the operations and maintenance of power generating facilities, coupled with a track record of leadership, career development, and operational success.
  • Associate degree in a technical field such as electrical technology, instrumentation, or a related discipline is required. A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, instrumentation, or a closely related field is preferred. Strong technical education in electrical systems, controls, or industrial maintenance applicable to power generation environments.
  • Must currently possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) upon hire.
  • Demonstrated supervisory experience managing hourly maintenance personnel, preferably within a gas turbine-based combined-cycle power plant environment.
  • Experience in planning, scheduling, and coordinating electrical and/or I&C maintenance activities, including management of preventive and corrective maintenance programs within a power generation environment.
  • Proficiency with computerized operational and maintenance systems, including CMMS and SCADA platforms, as well as Microsoft Office applications for reporting, documentation, and data management.
  • Strong diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving skills with demonstrated experience troubleshooting complex electrical, instrumentation, and control system issues to restore or improve equipment performance.
  • Working knowledge of NERC standards and other applicable reliability, compliance, and regulatory requirements within a power generation environment, including integration into daily operational and maintenance practices.
  • Demonstrated commitment to occupational safety and environmental compliance, ensuring consistent adherence to plant policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory frameworks in all maintenance and operational activities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey technical instructions, develop procedures, and produce accurate documentation, along with strong organization, workload management, and safe, efficient execution in high-reliability plant environments.
  • Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver's license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES
NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have built a reputation as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Our growing family of companies allows us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.
NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prioritize selecting employees based on merit and competence, seeking individuals of the highest quality, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other form of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state, and federal law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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