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Power Plant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Iowa

Power Plant Engineer 4

Coralville, IA · On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

OR employees with current continuous experience in the state Executive Branch that includes experience equal to two years of full-time work as a Power Plant Engineer 3. For additional information ...

MedStar Health

Power Plant Engineer III

Washington, DC

$31.28 - $56.39/hr

Performs regular maintenance/repairs to the Chiller Plant such as appropriate during shift reporting larger/ more complicated needs to the Forman or Power Plant Engineer I for action by the ...

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How much do power plant engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant engineer in the United States is $35.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Power Plant Engineer Do?

A power plant engineer maintains day-to-day operations in a power plant. Their main duties involve conducting operational tests, providing preventative maintenance on machines, inspecting thermal systems, and working closely with other plant personnel. This job requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Many engineers earn a more specialized degree in chemical, electrical, or nuclear engineering depending upon their industry. Additional qualifications for a power plant engineer include experience working as part of a team, communication skills, and strong analytical abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Power Plant Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and a relevant engineering degree or certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, plant management software, and safety compliance standards is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help you collaborate effectively and ensure plant operations run smoothly. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable power generation.

What is the difference between Power Plant Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPower Plant EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Power Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license optional but beneficial
Work EnvironmentPower plants, energy facilities, industrial sitesManufacturing, design firms, industrial plants, energy sectors
Industry UsageSpecific to energy generation and power productionBroad engineering applications across industries
Job FocusDesign, operation, and maintenance of power generation systemsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems

Power Plant Engineers specialize in energy generation systems within power plants, focusing on operation and maintenance. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across various industries on mechanical systems. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and job focuses differ significantly.

What does a Power Plant Engineer do?

A Power Plant Engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and optimization of power generation facilities. Their duties include overseeing equipment such as turbines, boilers, and generators to ensure efficient and safe production of electricity. They also perform regular inspections, troubleshoot issues, and implement safety protocols. In addition, Power Plant Engineers may work on upgrading systems to improve energy efficiency and comply with environmental regulations.

What engineer can make $500,000 a year?

Power plant engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles or specialized engineering fields like petroleum or aerospace engineering. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, leadership positions, or working in high-paying industries. Salary levels vary based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What are some common challenges Power Plant Engineers face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Power Plant Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as ensuring equipment reliability, troubleshooting unexpected failures, and maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They often need to respond quickly to operational issues, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and adapt to technological upgrades. To prepare, engineers benefit from staying updated on industry best practices, participating in ongoing training, and developing strong problem-solving and communication skills. Proactively engaging in preventive maintenance and collaborating closely with operations and maintenance teams can also help mitigate many common issues.
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Power Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,624 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Power Plant Engineer

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Waterford, OH

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Waterford Power LLC is seeking a multi disciplined Combined cycle Plant Engineer for the Waterford Combined cycle facility. Under the general direction of the O&M Manager, this individual will be responsible for performing intermediate to complex level engineering activities, project development, job planning as assigned, manage all NERC related programs and be responsible for various reporting to support the business.

Waterford Power LLC is a Combined Cycle 3X1 875mw Power Plant consisting of three GE 7FA Combustion Turbines, three Nooter HRSG's, one GE D11 Steam Turbine and supporting balance of plant equipment. The generating facility was commissioned for commercial operation in 2003.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provide technical guidance in the operation of plant activities to ensure compliance with all appropriate local, state and federal environmental control regulations, Occupational Safety and Health Act and other applicable laws and regulations
  • Conduct results oriented engineering, including but not limited to: conducting performance tests, analyzing operating data, and developing operational plans and equipment recommendations to optimize performance and profitability.
  • Support the Plant Safety Process by developing, maintaining and enforcing safe working conditions.
  • Oversee facilities Management of Change Program
  • Manage sites NERC programs
  • Manage sites Engineering programs: High Energy Piping, Transformers, HRSG, Generators, Turbines.
  • Recommend and direct improvements to equipment design and maintenance procedures
  • Develop, maintain and improve maintenance procedures and instructions for generating and other equipment to assure safe, efficient and reliable operation
  • Perform Power Plant Operations and Maintenance calculations and practices.
  • Provide equipment performance data to management in support of predictive maintenance program.
  • Assist Plant staff as needed with training and training development
  • Participate in the development of plant O&M and capital forecast, and tracking and controlling expenditures to meet approved budgets
  • Ensures optimized material, parts, and equipment inventories to maintain facility in a cost-effective manner
  • Other duties as deemed necessary by Plant Management

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