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Geothermal Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

HVAC Technician

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

$31K - $41K/yr

Experience with operation and maintenance of chillers, heat pumps, air handlers, and geothermal systems * Ability to climb ladders, crawl, and lift 40 pounds

Experience with operation and maintenance of chillers, heat pumps, air handlers, and geothermal systems * Ability to climb ladders, crawl, and lift 40 pounds

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Showing results 1-20

Geothermal information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$37

$77

How much do geothermal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for geothermal in Virginia is $37.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $42.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Geothermal vs Geothermal Technician?

AspectGeothermalGeothermal Technician
Required CredentialsGeothermal engineers often need a bachelor's degree in engineering or geology; technicians typically require an associate degree or technical certification.Associate degree or technical certification in geothermal systems or related fields.
Work EnvironmentDesign, research, and development in labs or office settings, with site visits for project assessment.Fieldwork on installation, maintenance, and repair of geothermal systems.
Industry UsageUsed in project planning, system design, and research within the geothermal energy industry.Hands-on installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of geothermal systems.

While both roles are integral to geothermal energy, Geothermal professionals focus on design and research, whereas Geothermal Technicians handle installation and maintenance tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the geothermal industry.

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

To thrive as a Geothermal Engineer, you need a solid background in geology, mechanical or civil engineering, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with geothermal modeling software, drilling technologies, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Problem-solving, teamwork, and strong project management skills help professionals excel in this role. These competencies are vital for designing efficient geothermal systems, ensuring safety, and managing complex projects within the renewable energy sector.

What are geothermal jobs?

Geothermal jobs are positions involved in the exploration, development, operation, and maintenance of geothermal energy systems. These roles typically include engineers, drill operators, geologists, plant operators, technicians, and environmental scientists who work to harness heat from the earth for electricity generation or direct heating applications. Geothermal jobs can be found in power plants, research institutions, consulting firms, and government agencies. These careers often require specialized training or education in earth sciences, engineering, or technical trades related to energy. The sector is growing as more countries invest in renewable energy solutions to address climate change.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in the geothermal industry, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in the geothermal industry often encounter challenges such as securing suitable drilling sites, navigating complex regulatory requirements, and managing the high upfront costs of project development. Close collaboration with geologists, engineers, and regulatory agencies is essential to overcome these hurdles. Additionally, staying updated with technological advancements and environmental best practices can help mitigate risks and ensure project success. Building strong project management and cross-disciplinary teamwork skills is also crucial for navigating the complexities of geothermal operations.
Infographic showing various Geothermal job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,340 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

*Central Plant Operator* with Security Clearance

The Tatitlek Corporation

Blackstone, VA โ€ข On-site

$110K/yr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Overview The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the day-to-day operation and upkeep of the facility's building automation systems, lighting controls, and centralized chiller plant. Working under the technical direction of the Chief Engineer, this role ensures efficient performance of the chiller plant, geothermal well systems, and all automated building controls. The operator also monitors, adjusts, and maintains heating and ventilation equipment, including fans, pumps, compressors, ducts, vents, and lubrication systems that support building and industrial operations ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Serve as the primary operator for the site's building automation systems, lighting controls, and centralized chiller plant. * Operate the chiller plant, geothermal wells, and lighting systems in coordination with the Chief Engineer's technical guidance. * Perform mechanical and electrical repairs on HVAC equipment while on shift or during routine rounds. * Conduct inspections and functional tests to verify proper operation of refrigeration components, HVAC systems, and geothermal equipment. * Perform preventive maintenance on mechanical and operational equipment and operate associated electrical machinery. * Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements. * Monitor and adjust ventilation and heating equipment as needed. * Regulate oil temperature, water flow, and system pressures by adjusting valves and controls. * Control fan speeds, adjust vents and ducts, record gauge readings, and document repairs and downtime. * Issue repair tickets and out-of-service tags for equipment requiring maintenance. * Inspect equipment for unusual noise, heat, or performance issues. * Replace gauges, tighten fittings, and seal leaks using appropriate tools. * Clean fans, ducts, vents, and related components using scrapers, compressed air, steam, or other approved methods. * Maintain a safe and orderly work environment. * Perform additional duties as assigned. EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND LICENSURE: * Requires a high school diploma * Requires experience in HVAC * 3 years of experience as a Central Plant Operator. * Secret clearance REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the following essential functions. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: * Prior experience in the supervision of a workforce responsible for operations, maintenance, and repair of commercial building infrastructure systems. WORK ENVIRONMENT: * Must be able be able to conduct preventative maintenance activities and minor repairs from ladders or elevated platforms. * Work requires the incumbent to walk, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in uncomfortable positions. * Ability to lift, carry and set up tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to and occasionally over fifty (50) pounds. * Must be comfortable getting dirty, dusty, and greasy in an indoor or outdoor environment with frequent exposure to excessive noise. * Must be able to perform duties under adverse weather conditions (extreme cold / heat, etc.). * Must be able to work alternate shift schedules when necessary to meet the mission requirements of the customer, to include weekends and holidays. * Must be able to perform on-call duties when scheduled and report to work within one hour of notification. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Must be able be able to conduct preventative maintenance activities and minor repairs from ladders or elevated platforms. * Work requires the incumbent to walk, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in uncomfortable positions. * Ability to lift, carry and set up tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to and occasionally over fifty (50) pounds. WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE: Secret or higher security clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required. ADDITIONAL QUALIFYING FACTORS: As a condition of employment, must pass a pre-employment drug screening, as well as have acceptable reference and background check results. As an equal opportunity employer, The Tatitlek Corporation recognizes that our strength lies in our people. Discrimination and all unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment, in employment is not tolerated. We encourage success based on our individual merits and abilities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, citizenship status, military status, protected veteran status or employment. We support and obey laws that prohibit discrimination everywhere we do business. Salary $110k+ DOE