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Power Plant Operation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kansas State University

Power Plant Operator

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$22.83 - $29.11/hr

About This Role This position exists to provide operating and maintenance support in the Power Plant operation, including related building systems, in order to fulfill its mission of providing ...

UMass Amherst

Power Plant Manager

Amherst, MA · On-site

Onsite Job Summary The Power Plant Manager leads the plant operations and maintenance groups in the safe and efficient operation of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Central Heating Plant ...

CPS Energy

Dir Power Plant

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Uses industry best practices to ensure for effective plant operations that lead to achieving ... Provides leadership and support for Power Generation improvement programs and initiatives.

CPS Energy

Dir Power Plant

San Antonio, TX

Uses industry best practices to ensure for effective plant operations that lead to achieving ... Provides leadership and support for Power Generation improvement programs and initiatives.

CPS Energy

Dir Power Plant

San Antonio, TX

Uses industry best practices to ensure for effective plant operations that lead to achieving ... Provides leadership and support for Power Generation improvement programs and initiatives.

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

Responsible for the daily operations of landfill gas to energy power plant. * Assisting in maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of reciprocating engines, as well as balance of plant equipment ...

NAES Corporation

Power Plant Engineer

Aquasco, MD

... power supply, with a total generating capacity of approximately 1,618 megawatts. The station ... Working closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams, the Plant Engineer helps ...

City of Bryan, TX

BTU-Power Plant Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

$28.90/hr

Dansby Power Plant. The position will be actively engaged in a formal training program ... Assists with operations and maintenance planning activities, to include developing work plans and ...

NAES

Power Plant Engineer

MD · On-site

... power supply, with a total generating capacity of approximately 1,618 megawatts. The station ... Working closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams, the Plant Engineer helps ...

W3Global Inc.

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

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 ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

Responsible for the daily operations of landfill gas to energy power plant. * Assisting in maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of reciprocating engines, as well as balance of plant equipment ...

New

NAES Corporation

Power Plant Engineer

Aquasco, MD

$145K - $175K/hr

... power supply, with a total generating capacity of approximately 1,618 megawatts. The station ... Working closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams, the Plant Engineer helps ...

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Power Plant Operation information

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$20

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$63

How much do power plant operation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operation in the United States is $44.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant operator?

Power plant operators are professionals responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining the equipment that generates electric power in facilities such as nuclear, coal, natural gas, or renewable energy plants. They ensure that the plant runs efficiently, safely, and within regulatory guidelines by adjusting controls, reading gauges, and performing routine checks. Operators may also respond to emergencies, perform minor repairs, and keep detailed records of plant operations. Their work is essential for providing consistent and reliable electricity to homes and businesses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator, you need a solid background in mechanical and electrical systems, strong problem-solving abilities, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring technical training or certifications. Operators must be proficient with distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA systems, and safety protocols relevant to power generation. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power generation facilities, which is essential for maintaining consistent energy supply.

What are some common challenges faced by power plant operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Power plant operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, adapting to rapidly changing energy demands, and adhering to strict safety and environmental regulations. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough training, regular maintenance schedules, and strong communication within the operations team. Operators typically participate in ongoing learning and safety drills to stay prepared for emergencies and work closely with engineers and technicians to troubleshoot issues quickly, ensuring reliable and efficient plant performance.

What is the difference between Power Plant Operation vs Power Plant Maintenance?

AspectPower Plant OperationPower Plant Maintenance
Primary FocusMonitoring and controlling plant processes to ensure efficient power generationInspecting, repairing, and maintaining equipment to prevent failures
Required SkillsOperational procedures, control systems, safety protocolsMechanical, electrical, and troubleshooting skills
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, plant floors, outdoor sitesWorkshops, equipment rooms, on-site maintenance areas
CertificationsPower plant operation licenses, safety certificationsMechanical or electrical trade certifications, safety training

Power Plant Operation involves managing the daily functions of a power plant to ensure continuous and efficient power production, while Power Plant Maintenance focuses on keeping equipment in optimal condition through repairs and inspections. Both roles are essential for reliable power generation and often work closely together within the same industry environment.

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What cities are hiring for Power Plant Operation jobs?

Cities with the most Power Plant Operation job openings:

What states have the most Power Plant Operation jobs?

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Power Plant Operation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Operator

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS • On-site

$22.83 - $29.11/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About This Role

This position exists to provide operating and maintenance support in the Power Plant operation, including related building systems, in order to fulfill its mission of providing uninterrupted utility service to the campus.

About Us

The Utilities and Plant Management Department is responsible for providing heating and cooling to buildings by utilizing district steam and chilled water from our central plants. Additionally, the department oversees all utility infrastructure, including electrical, natural gas, water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer. Furthermore, they manage roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and all outdoor lighting.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and three years of relevant experience. Requirements may be met through a combination of education and experience.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Two years of experience in one of the following building mechanical trades: electrical, electronics, plumbing, power plant operation, boiler operations, HVAC, and electronic/pneumatic control repair.
  • Prefer skill in the use of tools and the operation of machines and equipment commonly used in preventive maintenance and repair work.
  • High school graduate or equivalent and two years of experience in a power plant setting, including steam generation, chiller operation, and reading/calibrating all types of gauges and meters.
  • Vocational technical training in mechanical systems or military training in boiler operation would be beneficial.
  • Welding

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Application
Application Window

Applications close on: August 20th, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$22.83 - $29.11 hourly

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