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Intern Power Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA

$200K - $275K/yr

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

EthosEnergy

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

Vistra Energy

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA · On-site

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Blue Phoenix

Plant Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

Find out! We're looking for hard-working plant operators to join our growing team. Competitive pay ... Proficiency with hand and power tools * Ability to work effectively in adverse environmental ...

Vst

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Blue Phoenix

Plant Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

Find out! We're looking for hard-working plant operators to join our growing team. Competitive pay ... Proficiency with hand and power tools * Ability to work effectively in adverse environmental ...

Luminant

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Vistra Corp.

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA · On-site

... operator or supervisor • Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or machine ... to plant operations and maintenance including but not limited to Lockout Tagout, Job Safety ...

TXU Energy

Power Plant Technician

Hopewell, VA

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Fairfax County

Plant Operator III

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Planning, assigning, and overseeing the work of Plant Operator Is and IIs during operations of the plant including monitoring the standby generator and power distribution centers. Providing daily ...

Reworld

Power Plant-Shift Supervisor

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Must obtain & maintain an ASME QRO Provisional & Site-Specific Operators license. * Detailed ... power stations and instrument and control systems. Ability to originate and monitor plant ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsIntern Power Plant Operator JobsIntern Power Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia

Intern Power Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$19

$26

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern power plant operator in Virginia is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $21.20 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, and why are they important?

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia? For Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Intern Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Intern Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Intern Power Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 1% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,689 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Power Plant Manager

W3Global Inc.

Leesburg, VA

$200K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

My client is seeking an experienced Power Plant Manager to lead operations for their natural gas plant in Northwest Virginia near Leesburg, VA.

  • The facility includes two Siemens SGT6-5000F gas turbines, one Siemens SSTS 5000 steam turbine, 685 MW of base capacity, and 80 MW of duct firing capability.

  • This critical position will be responsible for providing management direction and leadership to ensure that the facility is operated in a safe, reliable, and economic manner consistent with site O&M agreement, contracts, permits, and rules, regulations and written instructions from the facility owner.

  • The role will report directly to the Regional Operations Director and provides for the main interface to the owner's representative of the facility.

  • Qualified candidates must have a substantial amount of leadership experience within combined cycle plant operations.

  • Thorough understanding of operations and maintenance functions for Siemens SGT6-5000F gas turbines is required.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Ensure safe plant operations and maintain a work environment that minimizes accidents and injuries.

  • Oversee environmental reporting, testing, and programs to ensure full permit compliance.

  • Oversee all NERC and regulatory reporting requirements.

  • Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and commercial commitments.

  • Foster a work environment that supports productivity, morale, and goal achievement.

  • Optimize plant performance through effective use of labor, equipment, supplies, and outside support.

  • Lead, coach, and develop facility staff, including training in operations, maintenance, safety, and regulatory compliance.

  • Prepare the annual budget and operating plan.

  • Manage purchasing, inventory, and cost control.

  • Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports.

  • Communicate effectively with staff, management, owners, vendors, and external agencies.

  • Build strong owner relationships by understanding and meeting expectations.

  • Enforce and ensure compliance with the operations and maintenance agreement.

  • Submit all required O&M agreement reports and information to the owner on time.

  • Recommend plant upgrades that improve reliability, performance, safety, or environmental readiness, supported by cost-benefit analysis.

  • Oversee maintenance and outage planning and provide owner reports on key outage events.

Required Skills / Knowledge:

  • Proven track record of meeting goals.

  • Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions.

  • Knowledge of plant chemistry, environmental programs, water treatment, and related regulations.

  • Understanding of budgets, bids, contracts, LTSA, accounting principles, plant economics, and power pool operations.

  • Knowledge of ISO markets; PJM experience is a plus.

  • Sound judgment and decision-making in emergency situations.

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and logic drawings, as well as technical manuals.

  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and training skills.

  • Knowledge of quality programs and tools.

  • Ability to analyze data and make sound recommendations.

  • Ability to lead and motivate a team of 27 employees, including 4 direct reports.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Project.

  • Experience operating and maintaining large frame gas turbines.

Experience:

  • Experience in Operations and Maintenance of a Combined Cycle Power Station.

  • A substantial number of years' relevant experience, with a significant proportion of this in a leadership position.

Education Requirements:

  • A four-year degree or commensurate experience is required, MBA a plus.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to walk, reach, climb, stoop and lift (up to 50 pounds).

  • Ability to work at heights and enter confined spaces.

  • The position requires occasional travel. (10%)

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay with a 25% plant bonus opportunity based on performance

  • Comprehensive Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • 401 K Plan

  • Paid Parental Leave

  • Time Off & Holidays

  • Company sponsored Perks & Discount programs

W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006

View All W3Global Jobs