1

Power Plant Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

My client is seeking an experienced Power Plant Manager to lead operations for their natural gas ... and finance, legal, engineering, human resources, government and more. We're proud of the ...

American Society of Power Engineers Power Plant Engineer 1st Class (PO1) or equivalent or the ability to obtain within 18 months. Computer proficient to be able to use a computer based work order ...

Supervise all aspects of physical plant and building operations, including power plant management for large facilities Lead engineering staff and oversee maintenance and repair activities Ensure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Power Plant Engineering information

What is power plant engineering?

Power Plant Engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on the design, operation, maintenance, and improvement of power plants, which generate electricity from various energy sources such as fossil fuels, nuclear, hydro, and renewables. Power plant engineers work to ensure efficient, reliable, and safe power production while meeting environmental and regulatory standards. They are involved in tasks such as selecting equipment, optimizing processes, troubleshooting operational issues, and implementing new technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power plant engineer?

To thrive as a Power Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, often with a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as a PE). Familiarity with SCADA systems, power plant simulation software, and industry-specific safety standards is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help engineers manage operations and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These competencies ensure reliable plant performance, regulatory compliance, and the safe, efficient generation of power.

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

Power plant engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, adhering to stringent safety and environmental regulations, and managing unplanned outages. Addressing these issues requires strong troubleshooting skills, effective preventive maintenance programs, and continuous learning to stay updated with evolving technologies and standards. Collaboration with operations, maintenance, and environmental teams is essential to ensure smooth plant operation and compliance, making communication and teamwork key components of the role.

What is the difference between Power Plant Engineering vs Power Plant Operations?

AspectPower Plant EngineeringPower Plant Operations
Primary FocusDesign, development, and maintenance of power plant systems and infrastructureDay-to-day running, monitoring, and control of power plant functions
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in power systems or electrical engineeringTechnical training, operational certifications, and experience
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering labs, and project sitesControl rooms, plant floors, and maintenance areas
Industry UsageUsed by engineers involved in planning, designing, and upgrading power plantsUsed by plant operators and technicians managing daily operations

Power Plant Engineering focuses on designing and maintaining power plant systems, requiring engineering credentials and working mainly in design and planning environments. Power Plant Operations involves managing daily plant functions, requiring operational skills and certifications. Both roles are essential in the power industry but serve different functions within the plant lifecycle.

Is power plant engineering still in demand?

Power plant engineering remains in demand due to ongoing needs for energy generation and infrastructure maintenance. Professionals with skills in plant operation, maintenance, and renewable energy integration are especially sought after, with certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) enhancing job prospects.

What type of engineers work at a power plant?

Power plants employ various engineers, including mechanical, electrical, chemical, and control systems engineers, who oversee equipment operation, maintenance, and safety. These engineers often hold relevant degrees and certifications, and they work with tools like SCADA systems and turbines to ensure efficient power generation.

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Engineering jobs in Virginia?

For Power Plant Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Plant Engineering jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Plant Engineering jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Power Plant Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Power Plant Manager

W3Global Inc.

Leesburg, VA

$200K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

My client is seeking an experienced Power Plant Manager to lead operations for their natural gas plant in Northwest Virginia near Leesburg, VA.

  • The facility includes two Siemens SGT6-5000F gas turbines, one Siemens SSTS 5000 steam turbine, 685 MW of base capacity, and 80 MW of duct firing capability.

  • This critical position will be responsible for providing management direction and leadership to ensure that the facility is operated in a safe, reliable, and economic manner consistent with site O&M agreement, contracts, permits, and rules, regulations and written instructions from the facility owner.

  • The role will report directly to the Regional Operations Director and provides for the main interface to the owner's representative of the facility.

  • Qualified candidates must have a substantial amount of leadership experience within combined cycle plant operations.

  • Thorough understanding of operations and maintenance functions for Siemens SGT6-5000F gas turbines is required.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Ensure safe plant operations and maintain a work environment that minimizes accidents and injuries.

  • Oversee environmental reporting, testing, and programs to ensure full permit compliance.

  • Oversee all NERC and regulatory reporting requirements.

  • Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and commercial commitments.

  • Foster a work environment that supports productivity, morale, and goal achievement.

  • Optimize plant performance through effective use of labor, equipment, supplies, and outside support.

  • Lead, coach, and develop facility staff, including training in operations, maintenance, safety, and regulatory compliance.

  • Prepare the annual budget and operating plan.

  • Manage purchasing, inventory, and cost control.

  • Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports.

  • Communicate effectively with staff, management, owners, vendors, and external agencies.

  • Build strong owner relationships by understanding and meeting expectations.

  • Enforce and ensure compliance with the operations and maintenance agreement.

  • Submit all required O&M agreement reports and information to the owner on time.

  • Recommend plant upgrades that improve reliability, performance, safety, or environmental readiness, supported by cost-benefit analysis.

  • Oversee maintenance and outage planning and provide owner reports on key outage events.

Required Skills / Knowledge:

  • Proven track record of meeting goals.

  • Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions.

  • Knowledge of plant chemistry, environmental programs, water treatment, and related regulations.

  • Understanding of budgets, bids, contracts, LTSA, accounting principles, plant economics, and power pool operations.

  • Knowledge of ISO markets; PJM experience is a plus.

  • Sound judgment and decision-making in emergency situations.

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and logic drawings, as well as technical manuals.

  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and training skills.

  • Knowledge of quality programs and tools.

  • Ability to analyze data and make sound recommendations.

  • Ability to lead and motivate a team of 27 employees, including 4 direct reports.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Project.

  • Experience operating and maintaining large frame gas turbines.

Experience:

  • Experience in Operations and Maintenance of a Combined Cycle Power Station.

  • A substantial number of years' relevant experience, with a significant proportion of this in a leadership position.

Education Requirements:

  • A four-year degree or commensurate experience is required, MBA a plus.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to walk, reach, climb, stoop and lift (up to 50 pounds).

  • Ability to work at heights and enter confined spaces.

  • The position requires occasional travel. (10%)

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay with a 25% plant bonus opportunity based on performance

  • Comprehensive Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • 401 K Plan

  • Paid Parental Leave

  • Time Off & Holidays

  • Company sponsored Perks & Discount programs

Company Description

W3Global was established in 2006 in Fremont, CA with a vision: simplify the recruiting process and develop an industry-disrupting platform to connect candidates with clients. Our cutting-edge Applicant Tracking System enables us to find the right person for the right job, creating value for job seekers and employers. While W3Global initially focused on IT staffing, we have expanded the business to serve many other industries, including accounting and finance, legal, engineering, human resources, government and more.

We’re proud of the investments we’ve made in our team, having grown from four to 1000 employees and evolving into one of the leading recruitment and staffing solution providers in the industry. Our recruiters and account managers are passionate about connecting qualified professionals with the right positions in small, medium, and large companies.

Our Services
W3Global understands the natural ups and downs of an organization’s staffing needs. We are continuously adapting to industry and economic changes to find the right candidates.

We specialize in placing permanent, direct, contract, and temporary positions for companies of any size. Our recruiting services include sourcing, recruiting, screening, interview management, salary negotiations, training, and onboarding.

We are committed to helping organizations redefine their recruitment process by delivering our SaaS-based proprietary application tracking system software.

Our Expertise
W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs.

As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.


W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006