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Power Plant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Power Plant Engineer 3

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of State-Operated Specialty Care, Bureau of Cherokee Mental Health Institute (CMHI) is seeking a Power Plant Engineer 3 to join our ...

... in engineering is required. • Minimum 3 years management experience in power generation or related field required. • Experience in power plant combined cycle operations is required. • ...

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent working experience in Mechanical Engineering, or related field Skills/Experience * 10+ years of experience in power plant applications, maintenance, operations, field ...

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Power Plant Engineer information

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$22

$35

$60

How much do power plant engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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 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 cities are hiring for Power Plant Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Power Plant Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Power Plant Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Power Plant Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Power Plant Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Power Plant Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,624 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Power Plant Engineer, Electrical

Blue United Sourcing

Columbus, OH • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Power Plant Engineer, Electrical

Nuclear Power Facility

Location: Toledo, OH. Onsite.

Schedule: Full-Time, Mon-Thurs, 4X10hr shifts.

Blue United Sourcing is partnering with a leading Fortune 500 power generation company to identify a talented Plant Support Engineer (Electrical Focus, Nuclear Power Facility) to join their plant engineering team in Toledo, OH. This is an exciting opportunity to take on hands-on, mission-critical work supporting one of the nation's most respected energy producers.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

This Electrical Engineer role sits within a dynamic Plant Support Engineering team that serves as the primary engineering contact for both emergent and near-term operational support. You'll work across a broad range of electrical distribution systems — from 24VDC control power to 345kVAC transmission — providing critical troubleshooting, condition assessments, and design support that keeps the facility running safely and efficiently.

⭐ VETERANS & MILITARY SPOUSES STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY ⭐

Blue United Sourcing is a proud veteran-owned and operated organization. We understand the value, discipline, and dedication that veterans and military families bring to the workforce. Your service matters — here, it's recognized.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Serve as the engineering point of contact for resolution of emergent, short-cycle, and near-term engineering work
  • Provide engineering support for operability evaluations and post-work testing
  • Offer technical support for maintenance teams and help resolve operating challenges
  • Lead complex troubleshooting efforts using methodologies such as FMEA and Confirm/Refute analysis
  • Perform electrical-specific tasks including protective device sizing, cable sizing, and motor sizing/analysis
  • Prepare and review minor design modifications as required
  • Provide planning support for emergent questions and in-field activities
  • Prepare and present engineering reports with recommendations to resolve complex issues
  • Comply with all safety policies and procedures to maintain a safe working environment
  • Lead and participate in special projects, committees, and engineering initiatives
  • Coordinate assigned projects, studies, and engineering initiatives through completion
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering strongly preferred; related engineering degree considered
  • Minimum 2+ years of relevant engineering experience preferred
  • Prior power plant or nuclear facility experience is strongly preferred
  • In-depth understanding of power plant equipment, systems, and distribution (24VDC–345kVAC)
  • Familiarity with relay protection, motors, generators, and associated systems desirable
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.)
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey complex technical issues clearly
  • Proven ability to apply systematic problem-solving processes to complex engineering challenges
  • Ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries
  • MUST BE AUTHORIZED TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES WITHOUT EMPLOYER SPONSORSHIP — NO SPONSORSHIP WILL BE PROVIDED
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Base Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 (commensurate with experience)
  • Annual Performance Incentive: 10–15% on top of base salary
  • Final compensation determined based on years of experience and qualifications.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit their resume and qualifications to Blue United Sourcing. All inquiries are handled confidentially. We look forward to connecting with talented engineers — especially those with a background in military or nuclear environments.

Hiring Manager:

Amy Mardis

amy@blueunitedsourcing.com

Blue United Sourcing is proud to be a Veteran-Owned Small Business.

Learn more: www.blueunitedsourcing.com

See additional Open Jobs: www.blueunitedsourcing.com/jobs

Equal Opportunity Employer | Veterans, Active Military & Military Spouses Strongly Encouraged to Apply

Benefits

Benefits Offered:

  • Health Insurance
  • Relocation Package
  • 401K match
  • Profit sharing
  • AIP Bonus