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Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

$42.20/hr

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA $1,500 Sign-on Bonus!* Starting Pay Rate: $28.36 * Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential) * Qualified Boiler ...

State of Iowa

Power Plant Engineer 3

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

This position is also responsible for operating generators for the Institute's electrical power in ... in power plant engineering principles including the operation, maintenance and repair of steam ...

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Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

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$17

$31

$57

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant operator in Iowa is $31.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $57.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nuclear power plant operator do?

A Nuclear Power Plant Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the systems that generate electricity in a nuclear power plant. They manage equipment such as reactors, turbines, and cooling systems to ensure safe and efficient operation. Operators also respond to abnormalities, perform safety checks, and follow strict protocols to prevent accidents. Their role is critical in maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and continuous power generation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear power plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of physics, engineering principles, and safety protocols, generally supported by a high school diploma, technical training, and NRC operator licensing. Proficiency in using control room instrumentation, plant management software, and radiation monitoring systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring plant safety, regulatory compliance, and reliable power generation.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear power plant operators in their daily work?

Nuclear Power Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols while troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions under pressure. The role requires constant vigilance, as operators must monitor multiple systems and respond quickly to any irregularities. Additionally, adapting to rotating shifts and staying updated with evolving regulations and technology can be demanding. However, strong teamwork and comprehensive training help operators manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Nuclear Power Plant Operator vs Nuclear Reactor Technician?

AspectNuclear Power Plant OperatorNuclear Reactor Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, licensing, and on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in nuclear technology or related field, certification
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, plant floors, safety zonesReactor systems, maintenance areas, technical labs
Job RoleMonitor plant operations, start/stop reactors, ensure safety protocolsMaintain and repair reactor systems, assist in troubleshooting

Both roles are essential in nuclear power plants, with operators focusing on overseeing plant functions and technicians handling technical maintenance. While their credentials and daily tasks differ, they work closely to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.

How do I become a nuclear power plant operator?

To become a nuclear power plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Most operators gain experience through on-the-job training and must pass written and practical exams to obtain licensure, demonstrating knowledge of reactor systems, safety procedures, and operational protocols.

How much do nuclear power plant operators get paid?

Nuclear power plant operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in shifts and require specialized training and licensing to operate nuclear reactors safely.

Is it hard to become a nuclear power plant operator?

Becoming a nuclear power plant operator requires extensive training, including a bachelor's degree in a related field, on-the-job training, and passing licensing exams from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The process is rigorous due to the safety-critical nature of the job and the need for strong technical skills and attention to detail.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings:

Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in Iowa 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 $65,262 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA

Archer Daniels Midland

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$42.20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 366 rated logistics

Job description


CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA
$1,500 Sign-on Bonus!*
Starting Pay Rate: $28.36
  • Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
  • Qualified Boiler Tech II Operator: $38.71 ($35.86 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
  • Qualified Boiler Tech I Operator: $42.20 ($39.65 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
Shift: 8-Hour Day Shift & 12-Hour rotating days/ nights (DuPont Schedule)
ADM is a part of the production of 30% of the food supply globally, on average you touch at least 7 items per day made with ADM ingredients. Everyone who works here is a big part of feeding the world. Learn more about ADM here: https://www.adm.com/.
Why Join?
  • Weekly Pay
  • Benefits Start Day 1
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Personal Days (Vacation & Sick Time Effective Day 1)
  • 9 Company Paid Holidays
  • 401k with up to 5% Company Match
  • Cash Balance Plan (Pension)
  • Annual Raises
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts & Health Savings Account
  • Company Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Plan
  • Company Paid Life Insurance & Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouse, & Children
  • Parental Leave Program
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Company provided work boots, uniforms, and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The CoGeneration Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of material handling systems, including Coal, Ash Silo, and Limestone Silo Systems. This role involves general maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring the desired safety, production, quality, and environmental standards are met.
Responsibilities:
  • Supports the unloading of coal and lime material by truck and rail and loading of ash trucks
  • Enters and verifies truck weights and data into computerized ADM Weigh Systems.
  • Operates motorized heavy equipment, including but not limited to rail locomotives, skid steer loader, and boom lifts.
  • Collects in-process samples at appropriate collection times, conducts laboratory testing, enters results to database, and analyzes results.
  • Follows and understands Equipment Specific Lockout Procedure (ESLP) to ensure safe and successful Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) of process equipment.
  • Executes daily Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure and maintain cleanliness throughout the plant and department.
  • Conducts routine maintenance checks, cleanings, troubleshooting, and basic preventive maintenance on process equipment.
  • Adheres to all safety regulations and partners with team members and plant leadership to foster a culture of safety for all individuals.
On the Job Requirements:
  • Ability to work independently with a high level of autonomy.
  • Possesses high degree of punctuality, work ethic, and reliability.
  • Able to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Able to communicate effectively with department operators and leadership.
  • Possesses strong attention to detail and high levels of quality of work.
  • Mechanical inclination and aptitude with ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues.
  • Proficiency in Windows computer operating system & related software.
Education & Experience Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED, required.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without Visa sponsorship.
  • Ability to understand and effectively communication in English (verbal & written).
  • Strong fundamental skills (math, reading, writing, & verbal communication).
  • Experience in industrial or mechanical manufacturing environment.
  • Experience operating heavy machinery and equipment.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Ability to move about on a work site by ascending/descending stairs, extensive walking, climbing steps or ladders, prolonged periods of standing and sitting, stooping, bending, kneeling, or squatting frequently
  • Ability to operate equipment or machinery that may be located at different heights with open view grating from multiple elevations or in confined spaces
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds overhead
  • Ability to traverse 2 miles or more during the course of a workday
  • Ambient conditions - Work area is, typically, a non-air-conditioned production environment. Working in extreme heat and cold in all seasonal elements, both indoors and outside on a regular basis.
  • Atmosphere: may come in contact with dust (Peanut - known allergen), corn, cotton, canola seed, chemicals, and odor
  • Must be able to work around vibrating equipment and noise levels that may reach or exceed 85 decibels and will require use of hearing protection for most of the work shift
  • Employees are required to wear all company provided PPE (i.e., hard-hats, safety glasses, earplugs, uniforms, and steel-toed boots) in addition to job specific PPE requirements (i.e., fall protection equipment and respirators)
*Sign On Bonus Eligibility: Eligibility for this bonus is subject to company policy. Former employees rehired within 12 months of their separation date are not eligible. The company reserves the right to modify or discontinue this bonus program at any time.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:111715BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay for this position is expected to be:

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