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Intern Power Plant Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer Intern

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

... operating companies to deliver complete EPC solutions. Our integrated approach spans power ... Engineering / Plant Engineering / Projects Location Birmingham, Al Quanta Power Solutions is ...

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Intern Power Plant Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do intern power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern power plant operator in Alabama is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an intern power plant operator do?

An Intern Power Plant Operator assists in monitoring and controlling the operations of a power plant under the supervision of experienced staff. They learn how to operate equipment, observe safety protocols, and perform basic maintenance tasks. The role provides hands-on experience with the systems that generate and distribute electricity, helping interns understand both the technical and regulatory aspects of power plant operations. Interns may also be involved in data collection, reporting, and supporting routine inspections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern power plant operator?

To thrive as an Intern Power Plant Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and often a relevant technical degree or coursework in engineering or energy technology. Familiarity with plant monitoring software, SCADA systems, and standard operational tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help interns perform tasks accurately and collaborate with experienced operators. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safe, efficient plant operations and ensuring a smooth learning curve in a highly regulated environment.

What types of projects or tasks are typically assigned to an intern power plant operator during their internship?

As an Intern Power Plant Operator, you can expect to assist with routine monitoring of plant equipment, help collect and record operational data, and shadow experienced operators during inspections and maintenance. Interns often participate in safety briefings and may be involved in small troubleshooting tasks under supervision. This hands-on exposure is designed to build foundational knowledge of plant operations, safety protocols, and teamwork, while also providing opportunities to ask questions and learn from seasoned professionals.

What is the difference between Intern Power Plant Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectIntern Power Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a relevant technical degree or certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, training-focused environment within power plantsFull responsibility for operating and maintaining power plant equipment
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by power companies for training purposesFull-time roles in power generation facilities

Intern Power Plant Operators are in training, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while Power Plant Operators are fully responsible for plant operations. Intern roles are stepping stones for careers in power plant operations, whereas full operators handle daily plant functions independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Alabama?

For Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Intern Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Intern Power Plant Operator job openings:

$66.34/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Competitive Positions of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: Incumbent will be in charge of power operations during one working shift and responsible for the operation of a complete system of up to thirteen local and remote hydroelectric generating plants under varying and complex operating conditions.Qualifications:

Who May Apply: US Citizens


In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of an Power Plant Senior Controller without more than normal supervision. Assignments will involve performance of common duties of operating a hydroelectric power plant under normal and abnormal conditions; issuing safe clearance for hydroelectric power plant equipment; operating flood control facilities to reduce flood risk. Work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee. Ability to do the work of an Power Plant Senior Controller without more than normal supervision- Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work tasks require that the incumbent be capable of rapid simultaneous mental and muscular coordination in conjunction with hand and eye coordination to operate switches and controls in accordance with meter indications. To respond to emergency situations, incumbent must be able to lift and carry objects up to 45 pounds, climb several flights of stairs in succession, stand, sit, or kneel for prolonged periods of time. To use power plant communications, the incumbent must have normal speech and hearing. To recognize color coded instrument indications, normal correctable vision and color vision are required.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Most duties are performed within the confines of Master Power Plant control room. Occasionally duties may be assigned on the generator and turbine floor, spillway and switchyard. Some exposure to moderate discomforts such as noise, heat, cold, moving, and rotating equipment can be expected. This position requires occasional travel outside the normal duty locations for training activities, operational familiarization of other power plants, local control of other power plants and other activities.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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About Army Corps of Engineers

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US