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Power Plant Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Celanese Corporation

Supervisor, Production

Narrows, VA · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Substantial experience, usually 5-10 years, in power plant operations or a similar industrial setting. * Professional certification in plant operations or facility management can be advantageous.

Blue Phoenix

Plant Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

What you need to have: * 3-5 years' plant operations experience in a production environment ... Proficiency with hand and power tools * Ability to work effectively in adverse environmental ...

Vistra Energy

Renewables Energy Technician

Pulaski, VA · On-site

$23.75 - $32.25/hr

Responsible for the overall operations to include operating, monitoring, and controlling the status of all power plant systems. Executes plant shut-down and start ups, responds to alarms and ...

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$67K - $91K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

BWX Technologies

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$86K - $157K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

BWX Technologies

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$86K - $157K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

BWX Technologies

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$86K - $157K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Nuclear Operations Training experience. * Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance ...

Chippenham Hospital

HVAC Power Plant Mechanic

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20.55 - $28.78/hr

... operation of HVAC maintenance; including work requests and ordering parts. · You will conduct ... our HVAC Power Plant Mechanic opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified ...

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All JobsPower Plant Operations JobsPower Plant Operations Jobs in Virginia

Power Plant Operations information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$105.8K

$171.5K

How much do power plant operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for power plant operations in Virginia is $105,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $131,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is power plant operations?

Power Plant Operations refer to the activities involved in running and maintaining facilities that generate electricity, such as coal, gas, nuclear, or renewable energy plants. Operators monitor equipment, control power-generating machinery, adjust controls to regulate electricity flow, and ensure plants operate safely and efficiently. They also perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and follow strict safety and environmental regulations. The goal is to ensure a consistent and reliable supply of electricity while minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in power plant operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Power Plant Operations, candidates typically need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of electrical and thermal systems, and a high school diploma or associate degree, often supplemented by relevant industry certifications. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA software, and safety protocols is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for responding to issues and collaborating with team members. These skills are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power generation equipment, minimizing downtime and maintaining regulatory compliance.

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

Professionals in Power Plant Operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and responding to unexpected operational issues. Staying current with technological updates and adhering to strict operational procedures are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaboration with maintenance teams, ongoing training, and clear communication help ensure the plant operates smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, developing problem-solving skills and a proactive approach can help operators handle emergencies and minimize downtime.

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

AspectPower Plant OperationsPower Plant Maintenance
Primary FocusManaging daily plant functions, overseeing plant performance, and ensuring continuous power generationInspecting, repairing, and maintaining equipment to prevent failures and ensure optimal operation
Required CertificationsOperator licenses, technical certificationsTechnician or maintenance certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, plant floors, outdoor sitesWorkshops, equipment rooms, outdoor maintenance areas
Industry UsagePower generation facilities, utility companiesPower plants, industrial facilities, maintenance service providers

Power Plant Operations and Power Plant Maintenance are closely related roles within the energy industry. Operations focus on managing the plant's daily functions and ensuring continuous power output, while Maintenance involves repairing and maintaining equipment to prevent downtime. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ, making them complementary in power plant management.

Is it hard to get a job at a power plant?

Getting a job in power plant operations can be competitive and typically requires relevant technical skills, certifications such as a boiler operator license or electrical certifications, and sometimes prior experience. Entry-level positions may be easier to obtain, but advancing often requires specialized training and knowledge of safety protocols and control systems.

What does a power plant operations do?

A power plant operator manages and monitors the equipment that generates electricity, ensuring safe and efficient plant operation. They control systems, perform routine inspections, and respond to operational issues, often using control room technology and following safety protocols. Certification and technical knowledge are typically required for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operations jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operations jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Power Plant Operations jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Power Plant Operations job openings:

Power Plant Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operations job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,843 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Plant Operator - Renewable Power (Old Dominion)

OPAL Fuels Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Opal Fuels rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

About OPAL Fuels
OPAL Fuels (Nasdaq: OPAL) is a leader in the capture and conversion of biogas into low carbon intensity RNG and renewable electricity. OPAL Fuels is also a leader in the marketing and distribution of RNG to heavy duty trucking and other hard to de-carbonize industrial sectors. For additional information, and to learn more about OPAL Fuels and how it is leading the effort to capture North America's naturally occurring methane and decarbonize the economy, please visit www.opalfuels.com.
Position Summary
We are hiring for a Plant Operator to work in our Renewable Power Plant. This position reports to a Lead Plant Operator and is located in Henrico, VA The Plant Operator is responsible for the direction of all day-to-day activities in a reciprocating engine landfill gas power generation facility. The goals of this position are to maximize production and minimize downtime with the utmost regard to safety, cleanliness, and environmental compliance.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operate, monitor, and maintain large reciprocating gas engines (Caterpillar 3500 series gensets) and associated auxiliary equipment.
  • Maintain detailed records on production data, equipment operational hours, service schedules and equipment outages.
  • Check all operating equipment daily including flow meters, gas chromatographs, fluid levels, pressure and temperature readings, and unusual noises to correct conditions before failure occurs.
  • Perform all maintenance and repairs on the operating equipment including oil and filter changes, replacement and repair of valves, blowers, compressors, and other plant equipment, as necessary. Participate in preventative maintenance outages and overhauls.
  • Maintain a high level of cleanliness in and around the plant. Keep oil from accumulating on the unit skids, floors, and soil around the plant. Keep weeds and shrubs cleaned from the plant yard and perimeter fence. Keep equipment and floors looking as presentable as possible.
  • Keep all on-site parts and supplies stocked and well organized. Maintain plant inventory.
  • Respond to call outs in a timely manner. Identify and correct the cause of the call out. If the problem cannot be corrected or diagnosed, it is the responsibility of the operator to contact the area manager to get the help required to fix the situation.
  • Operate the plant with a clear focus on safety. Clean up spills immediately. Make sure all lighting systems are fully functional; no slip or trip hazards are consistently present; and no electrical or mechanical hazards go on for long periods of time without attention. Affirm that all plant visitors, mechanics, and outside contractors are following safe work practices.
  • Works with internal resources to resolve problems.
  • Ensures adherence to company policies, procedures, regulatory compliance, and safety requirements.
  • Clearly communicate all material/personnel issues with the area managers.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills
  • High school diploma/ GED equivalent
  • Diesel/large reciprocating engines operation and maintenance experience is required.
  • Must possess good mechanical skills.
  • Basic electrical knowledge is preferred.
  • General troubleshooting abilities.
  • Skilled in recordkeeping and logging.
  • Must be able to read and write well.
  • Computer skills (Microsoft Office).
  • Must be self-motivated and perform most tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Working knowledge of pressure, vacuum, and flow.
  • Experience with pumps, blowers, or air compressors.
  • Experience in welding helpful.

Work Hours and Arrangements
Monday - Friday; 8-hour shift; on-call (rotating); overtime; weekend availability.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Position requires physical effort such as that associated with driving a motorized vehicle, operate an ATV, using hand tools, and typing on a computer. Position requires moderate lifting (10-50 lbs.), occasional need to walk on irregular surfaces, and occasional stooping, kneeling, climbing, or crouching. Also requires the use of hands and arms to operate/examine gas meters, flow meters, hand tools, power tools, bridge and jib cranes and test/diagnostic equipment.
Job Type
Full-time
Pay
The range for this role is anticipated to be $37.00 - $40.00 hourly with bonus for eligible positions. Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • 401(k) plus Matching Contributions
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Referral Bonus
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Ten Paid Holidays per year

OPAL Fuels LLC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
OPAL Fuels does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters or agencies without a current signed agreement and written confirmation specifying the roles for which submissions are authorized. Any resumes submitted without an agreement and authorization will be considered the property of OPAL Fuels.

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