ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Power Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Medxcel

Powerplant Operator II

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

The Power Plant Operator II 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 ...

Medxcel

Powerplant Operator II

Indianapolis, IN

The Power Plant Operator II 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 ...

DTE Energy

Power Plant Manager

Indianapolis, IN

... power at the location. Plant equipment includes the following: (2) 7.8 MW Solar Taurus 70 Gas ... Develop operating and safety procedures along with all other administrative tasks associated with a ...

DTE Energy

Power Plant Manager

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

... power at the location. Plant equipment includes the following: (2) 7.8 MW Solar Taurus 70 Gas ... Develop operating and safety procedures along with all other administrative tasks associated with a ...

DTE Energy

Power Plant Manager

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... power at the location. Plant equipment includes the following: (2) 7.8 MW Solar Taurus 70 Gas ... Develop operating and safety procedures along with all other administrative tasks associated with a ...

Skill Demand

Be Seen First

Steam Plant Operator

Knightstown, IN · On-site

$22 - $24.27/hr

An Associate Degree in Power Plant Technology from an accredited college or university may ... The shift operator is responsible for reporting personnel performance on an assigned shift and is ...

Orion Talent

Digester Operator

Reynolds, IN · On-site

$24/hr

Complete routine plant rounds, housekeeping inspections, and cleanliness checks while maintaining ... Military experience in engineering, utilities, mechanical maintenance, fuel systems, power ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Trainee JobsPower Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana

Power Plant Operator Trainee information

See Indiana salary details

$19

$42

$60

How much do power plant operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator trainee in Indiana is $42.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $55.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant operator trainee?

A Power Plant Operator Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals learn how to monitor and control power-generating equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. Trainees receive hands-on training in operating turbines, boilers, generators, and other systems to ensure safe and efficient power production. Responsibilities typically include reading gauges, recording data, and responding to system alerts. Over time, trainees gain the knowledge and skills needed to become fully qualified power plant operators.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a power plant operator trainee?

As a Power Plant Operator Trainee, your daily tasks typically involve shadowing experienced operators, monitoring equipment gauges and control panels, recording operational data, and assisting with routine maintenance. You may also learn to adjust controls to regulate output, respond to alarms or abnormal indicators, and participate in safety drills. Over time, you'll gain experience analyzing system performance and troubleshooting issues under supervision. The role offers hands-on training in a highly structured team setting, preparing you for increased responsibility and possible advancement to full operator roles.

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

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring technical training or coursework. Familiarity with control systems, monitoring equipment, and safety protocols is crucial, and completion of relevant safety training or industry certifications can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to follow instructions make a candidate stand out in this position. These competencies ensure safe and efficient plant operations while supporting learning and advancement in a highly regulated environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana?

For Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,499 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Power Plant Operator, Associate

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Power Plant Operator, Associate
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Power Plant Operator
Administrative Operations | Purdue University
Join the team that helps power one of the nation's leading universities. At Purdue, you'll find unrivaled pride, unlimited potential, and a collaborative community working together to support teaching, research, and innovation every day. As a Power Plant Operator, you'll play an essential role in the safe and reliable operation of the Wade Utility Plant, ensuring critical utilities are available across campus while developing valuable technical skills in a dynamic industrial environment.
In this hands-on role, you will operate and monitor power plant equipment including boilers, pumps, turbines, compressors, fans, water treatment systems, and computerized control systems. You'll analyze operational data, support plant efficiency and reliability, maintain water chemistry standards, and work alongside a skilled team dedicated to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Ideal candidates enjoy technical problem-solving, working in a team environment, and learning complex systems. Purdue offers the opportunity to build specialized expertise while contributing to a mission larger than yourself. This position requires flexibility to work various shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and callback assignments as part of a 24/7 operation.
Helping Build a Better World, Together. Discover a career where your work has a direct impact on the Purdue community every day.
This is a dual level position where the hiring manager will determine the level commensurate with the experience of the candidate.
About Us
Be a part of Administrative Operations-the organization that powers Purdue University by providing safe, reliable and transformative services. We support the university's day-to-day operations, as well as the strategic vision for the future.
Administrative Operations delivers a wide range of essential services through various positions, including custodians, construction project managers, electricians, firefighters, groundskeepers, plumbers and more. We are looking for hardworking, dedicated individuals as we continue to grow strong, service-focused teams across campus. Team members work in collaborative environments where their contributions directly impact the success and daily experience of students, faculty, staff and campus visitors.
Our employees benefit from the stability of year-round work, competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off and opportunities for ongoing training and professional growth.
Apply now to begin your career with Administration Operations!
What We're Looking For
Education and Experience Required:
As the SK1 Power Plant Operator you will need the following:
  • High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE) required
  • One (1) year of experience in the operation of some type of industrial equipment
    • The operation of fans, compressors, pumps, farm machinery, or other relevant types of rotating, stamping, or moving equipment
    • The equipment may be electric, steam, hydraulic or air driven
  • Must pass departmental Training Skills Inventory 1 in first 90 days of employment
  • Valid Driver's License required

As the SK2 Power Plant Operator will need the above and following:
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience in the operation of utility plant equipment required, such as high pressure boilers, steam turbine and diesel generators, centrifugal chillers, and auxiliaries such as turbines, pumps, fans, air compressors and water treatment systems

Skills Required:
  • Proven basic math skills, verbal and written communication skills required
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude required
  • Ability to take advanced departmental training to learn other positions in the power plant required
  • Must be able to lift and carry 25 lbs. to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 60 lbs. occasionally

Preferred:
  • Knowledge of:
    • water treatment systems, including chemical measuring/handling
    • either steam, electric, hydraulic or air powered equipment
  • Ability to perform basic computer operations required, knowledge and experience entering or retrieving word and or excel documents

Additional Information:
  • Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
  • Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days - Summary of Benefits for Administrative and Operational Support, Police, Fire and Skilled Trades - Human Resources - Purdue University

Career Stream
Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 1
  • Pay Band S055
  • Job Code #20003673

Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 2
  • Pay Band S060
  • Job Code #20003674

Career path maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/
Who We Are
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Purdue University is an EOE employer.

What Purdue University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply