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Power Generation Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Middle River Power, LLC.

Accounting Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$120K - $130K/yr

S. power generation facilities. With over 8GW of natural gas, coal, battery storage, and solar ... MRP is a PE-backed environment that requires operating at pace, calculated risk-taking, and ...

Middle River Power, LLC.

Accounting Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

S. power generation facilities. With over 8GW of natural gas, coal, battery storage, and solar ... MRP is a PE-backed environment that requires operating at pace, calculated risk-taking, and ...

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Power Generation Operator information

What does a power generation operator do?

A Power Generation Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the machinery that generates electric power. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of power plants by adjusting controls, reading meters and gauges, and performing routine maintenance checks. Operators also respond to emergencies or equipment malfunctions, ensuring that electricity production remains stable and reliable. Their work is essential for providing continuous power to homes, businesses, and industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power generation operator?

To thrive as a Power Generation Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety regulations, and, often, a technical diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, plant control software, and preventive maintenance tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top operators apart. These competencies ensure the reliable, safe, and efficient production of electricity while minimizing downtime and hazards.

What are some common challenges faced by power generation operators, and how can they be addressed?

Power Generation Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions, managing shifts that may include nights and weekends, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols. To address these, operators rely on thorough training, regular preventive maintenance routines, and clear communication with their team and supervisors. Embracing a proactive approach to problem-solving and staying updated on industry best practices can help operators maintain smooth plant operations and ensure safety for all personnel.

What is the difference between Power Generation Operator vs Power Plant Technician?

AspectPower Generation OperatorPower Plant Technician
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and plant-specific trainingOften requires technical certifications or associate degrees in electrical or mechanical fields
Work EnvironmentOperates and monitors power plant equipment, often in control rooms or plant floorsMaintains, repairs, and troubleshoots plant machinery and systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in power generation facilities, including fossil, nuclear, and renewable plantsFound in similar settings, focusing on equipment maintenance and repair

Power Generation Operators primarily monitor and operate power plant equipment, ensuring continuous power supply, while Power Plant Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing plant machinery. Both roles require technical knowledge and safety training, but technicians typically have more hands-on repair responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the energy industry.

How much do power generation operators make?

Power generation operators in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific employer. They often work in shifts and may require knowledge of control systems and safety protocols.

How to get hired as a power generation operator?

To become a power generation operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in electrical, mechanical, or power plant technology. Relevant certifications, such as a boiler operator license or electrical license, and experience with control systems and safety procedures are often required. Employers also look for strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in shifts or under high-pressure conditions.

What are popular job titles related to Power Generation Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Power Generation Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Generation Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Generation Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Power Generation Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Power Generation Operator job openings:

Power Generation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Generation Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Project Engineer, Thermal Engineering

Invenergy LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Invenergy rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

The Project Engineer, Thermal, reporting to the Senior Director of Thermal Engineering, will support Invenergy's efforts to develop, permit, engineer, construct and commission new geothermal and thermal (simple and combined cycle combustion turbine and reciprocating engine) power generation projects throughout North America. This role will encompass the full project life cycle of project development from siting and origination through commercial operation of the project and will assist managing third party engineering consultants and contractors; preparing permit applications; specifying project configurations; specifying project performance, creating project specifications; preparing bids; evaluating bids; managing major equipment manufacturers supplying combustion turbines, steam turbines, heat recovery steam generators, injection pumps, Organic Rankine Cycle systems,; reviewing detailed engineering; construction monitoring and commissioning efforts. A strong background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion turbine performance is desired.

Responsibilities

  • Perform and review basic and detail design for power generation projects.

  • Advise on the feasibility of projects based on available geothermal technologies and project constraints.

  • Lead technical efforts during the development phase and collaborate with other engineering and geophysicists during the reservoir modelling and detailed design process.

  • Perform and review thermal heat balances for thermal power generation projects.

  • Support technical efforts for project development work such as site selection, general arrangement development, site surveying, environmental studies, permit applications, geotechnical investigations and others.

  • Interface with equipment vendors to explain technical requirements and receive technical proposals.

  • Support and lead technical efforts with OEMs.

  • Review technical deliverables like P&ID, heat and mass balances, project design documents, equipment specifications and drawings, layouts, and electrical one-line drawings.

  • Provide engineering oversight during project design and construction.

  • Interface with contractors for resolution of technical issues.

  • Assist oversight of power plant commissioning activities.

  • Coordinate with internal teams to align project development and execution with financial and commercial objectives, including coordination of internal administrative workload with the Project Management team for the technical interface of the project, i.e., purchase orders, service orders, MSAs and ESA agreements for consultants.

  • Establish relationships with various technical experts among stakeholders, utilities, RTO/ISOs.

  • Understand project interfaces across multiple contractors and work packages and monitor performance, ensuring adherence to project requirements, budget and schedule.

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS in mechanical, electrical, civil, petroleum, chemical or related engineering discipline.

  • 2+ years' experience in project engineering management of large capital projects with a focus on geothermal power generation, thermal power generation or transferable energy sector work.

  • Familiarity with regulatory, siting, and environmental permitting processes for large-scale industrial projects.

  • Knowledge and experience with project design and configuration.

  • Experience with geothermal production facilities with focus on translating subsurface energy into usable power, emphasizing facility design, heat exchange, gathering systems, reinjection systems and fluid mechanics will have an advantage.

  • Spreadsheet modeling using Microsoft Excel.

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

  • Must have a valid US driving license.

  • Ability to travel up to 25%.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in engineering or Professional Engineering License

  • Experience with ORCs, steam turbines for geothermal applications, production and injection pumps, and other heavy duty industrial rotatory equipment.

  • Experience in the power generation industry, specifically thermal energy, with a focus on utility-scale project development.

  • Oil & Gas project or reservoir engineering experience relevant to geothermal or conventional thermal projects.

  • Proficiency in spreadsheet modeling using Microsoft Excel.

  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills

Base Pay

$100,000.00 - $120,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 20% - 30%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

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