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Power Plant Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

POWER PLANT ENGINEER SpaceX is building and operating combined-cycle gas turbine power plants that must come online, stay online, and perform. This role owns the design and build of the full power ...

WI · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Hire, coach, and retain engineers and technicians; set performance standards and grow the next generation of plant leadership * Represent the power plant organization to internal stakeholders ...

WI · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Job Summary The Plant Engineer provides technical leadership and engineering support to ensure safe, reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of the power plant. This role is responsible for ...

New

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI · On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

NIULPE 4th Class Stationary Engineer license OR ASOPE 2nd Class license OR City of Milwaukee High ... All Power Plant Operators work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed NOTE: This original ...

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI · On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

NIULPE 4th Class Stationary Engineer license OR ASOPE 2nd Class license OR City of Milwaukee High ... All Power Plant Operators work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed NOTE: This original ...

Technical training in power plant operation is required. Technical training in refrigeration or ... Valid Wisconsin driver's license is required. 3rd Class Operator's Engineering License is required ...

Technical training in power plant operation is required. Technical training in refrigeration or ... Valid Wisconsin driver's license is required. 3rd Class Operator's Engineering License is required ...

WI · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

If you have a strong background in data center/power plant engineering, construction management, and project execution, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for. Primoris is ranked in the top ...

WI · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

If you have a strong background in data center/power plant engineering, construction management, and project execution, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for. Primoris is ranked in the top ...

New

WI · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Support a 1,200-MW combined cycle natural gas power plant through project completion, currently anticipated through 2028 Requirements * Bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited program ...

New

WI · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical Engineering from ABET Accredited Institution. Minimum of 10 years of experience with simple & combined cycle power plant/data center projects. PE license ...

New

WI · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Description The APEX Power Co. Project in Hubbard, TX, currently under Phase 1 construction, is ... As Plant Engineering & Reliability Manager, your responsibilities specific to the Pre-Commissioning ...

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Showing results 1-20

Power Plant Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$22

$36

$61

How much do power plant engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant engineer in Wisconsin is $36.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.89 and $36.39 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 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 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 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.

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.

Is there a demand for power plant engineers?

Power plant engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for energy production and infrastructure maintenance. They are often required to have technical skills, knowledge of power systems, and relevant certifications, with employment opportunities available in utility companies, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors.

What is the average salary for a power plant engineer in the US?

The average salary for a power plant engineer in the US is approximately $85,000 to $105,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Engineers in this field often work with control systems, turbines, and power generation equipment, and may require a bachelor's degree in engineering and relevant licensure.

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Power Plant Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Engineer jobs in WI?

For Power Plant Engineer jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Power Plant Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,322 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

$125 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the full lifecycle of gas turbine power generation assets including installation, commissioning, startup, operations, and maintenance.

  • Own commissioning activities such as combustion tuning, control system checkout, and performance verification, and troubleshoot in the field during startup.

  • Analyze turbine performance data, perform root-cause analysis for outages and degradation, and develop corrective actions.


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

POWER PLANT ENGINEER

SpaceX is building and operating combined-cycle gas turbine power plants that must come online, stay online, and perform. This role owns the design and build of the full power plant: gas turbines, mechanical and electrical balance of plant, and everything else that keeps the plant running at rated output, day after day. This is not a desk job. You will be constructing the power plant, owning commissioning in the control room during startup, and in the field troubleshooting.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Support the full lifecycle of gas turbine power generation assets — installation, commissioning, startup, operations, and long-term maintenance
  • Lead or support commissioning activities including combustion tuning, control system checkout, protective relay testing, and performance/reliability run verification
  • Own root‑cause analysis and corrective action for turbine trips, forced outages, and performance degradation; drive fixes that prevent recurrence
  • Develop and refine operating procedures, startup/shutdown sequences, and abnormal operating condition playbooks
  • Interface directly with OEMs (GE, Siemens Energy, Mitsubishi Power, Doosan) on warranty issues, LTSA scope, outage planning, and technical issues
  • Plan and execute major/minor inspections, hot gas path outages, and combustion inspections in line with OEM maintenance intervals
  • Analyze turbine performance data (heat rate, capacity factor, degradation curves) to identify efficiency losses and recommend corrective action
  • Coordinate with balance‑of‑plant teams (HRSG, steam turbine, cooling systems, water treatment) to ensure integrated performance
  • Build and maintain relationships with EPC contractors during construction handoff to ensure a clean transition from construction to commercial operation
  • Develop spare parts strategy, critical spares inventory, and maintenance budgets
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of hands‑on experience with utility‑scale gas turbines in commissioning, operations, or maintenance roles
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES
  • Working knowledge of combined‑cycle plant systems: gas turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, generators, and balance‑of‑plant equipment
  • Experience reading and interpreting P&IDs, single‑line diagrams, and turbine control logic
  • Direct commissioning experience with GE 7/9HA, Siemens Energy SGT6/8-8000H, Mitsubishi M501/701JAC, or Doosan H‑class turbines
  • Experience with DCS/turbine control platforms (Mark VIe, SPPA-T3000, or equivalent)
  • Familiarity with LTSA structures, OEM contract negotiation, and outage scope development
  • Background in root‑cause failure analysis (RCA/5‑Why/Fishbone) for rotating equipment
  • Experience with performance monitoring tools and heat balance modeling
  • Exposure to grid interconnection requirements, PPA performance obligations, or capacity market rules
  • Experience integrating power generation with co‑located industrial or data center loads
  • A bias toward action: comfortable making a call in the field without waiting for a committee
  • Demonstrated ability to work under pressure during startup, outages, or unplanned events, with a sense of urgency and ownership over outcomes
  • Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar CAD software
  • Knowledge of engineering standards and best practices such as ASME B31.3, ASME BPV Code Section VIII, and AFSPCMAN 91-710
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as business needs require
  • Flexibility to travel to other SpaceX sites
  • Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings and climbing hand over hand
  • Typically exposed to work in outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain
  • Stand: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
  • Push/Pull: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) Up to 15 minutes per day
  • Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Walk: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) Up to 15 minutes per day
  • Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 1 hour per day
  • Kneel/Crouch: N/A
  • Upper body twist: N/A
  • Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees: up to 30 minutes per day
  • Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air purifying respirator, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description. Candidate may be required to complete a pre‑employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Aff… should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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