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Power Plant Operation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Health

Power Plant Manager

Austin, TX

Overview The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines ...

Central Health

Power Plant Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

Overview The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines ...

Central Health

Power Plant Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines, pumps ...

Central Health

Power Plant Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

Overview The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines ...

NAES Corporation

Power Plant Operator

Ferndale, WA

$46.47 - $48.29/hr

Opportunity Summary The Power Plant Operator at the Ferndale Generating Station is responsible for ... Report anomalies or upset conditions to the Operations Manager or Lead Control Room Operator ...

NAES

Power Plant Operator

Ferndale, WA · On-site

Opportunity Summary The Power Plant Operator at the Ferndale Generating Station is responsible for ... Report anomalies or upset conditions to the Operations Manager or Lead Control Room Operator ...

NAES Corporation

Power Plant Operator

Ferndale, WA

Opportunity Summary The Power Plant Operator at the Ferndale Generating Station is responsible for ... Report anomalies or upset conditions to the Operations Manager or Lead Control Room Operator ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA

$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 ...

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Power Plant Operation information

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$20

$44

$63

How much do power plant operation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 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 power plant operators?

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 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.

More about 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.
Power Plant Trainee I

Power Plant Trainee I

US Department of the Army

Carthage, TN • On-site

$40.90/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

United States Army rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoW Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: You will serve as a first year trainee in a formal program in power plant operation. The assignments, on-the-job training, and required course work are designed to qualify the employee for the next higher grade in the trainee program.
11 Total VacanciesQualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to perform the duties of a POWER PLANT TRAINEE I without more than normal supervision. Duties include operating, servicing and maintaining hydroelectric power plant equipment and associated auxiliary systems; performing routine preventative maintenance inspections and operational checks; cleaning and painting equipment and facilities; and assisting with major electrical and mechanical maintenance and overhaul activities. Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Incumbent frequently lifts, carries or otherwise handles items weighing up to 50 pounds. Occasionally handles items greater than 50 pounds. Assistance is available with heavy items. Works in sitting, standing, walking. bending, crouching, reaching, and stooping positions, for extended periods if required.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is required to be performed both inside and outside and is subject to all extremes of weather. Incumbent is subjected to the danger of falls from scaffolds and slings, asbestos, carbon dust, fumes, electric shock, noise, moving machinery. close places in cramped positions. slippery conditions both water and grease. frequent travel, and other conditions expected from mechanical and electrical repair of power plant equipment. Incumbent is subject to abrasions, burns, cuts. and bruises common to the use of hand tools. Employee is required to observe established safe working procedures. Wearing of respirators, hard hats, hard toe footwear, gloves. goggles. face shields, rubber aprons, rainwear, and earplugs is mandatory in the performance of duties.Education:The Hydropower Plant Trainee program includes approximately one year of formal classroom instruction at Old Hickory Power Plant (Hendersonville, TN), followed by 2-3 years of structured on-the-job training. Upon successful completion of the classroom training phase, trainees may be assigned to duty locations including Barkley Power Plant (Kuttawa, KY); Cordell Hull Power Plant (Carthage, TN); Dale Hollow Power Plant (Celina, TN); Cheatham Power Plant (Charlotte, TN); Old Hickory Power Plant (Hendersonville, TN); and Center Hill Power Plant (Lancaster, TN).Employment Type: OTHER

What United States Army employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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