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Power Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Facilities / Skilled Trades Reporting to a Power Plant Operator Shift Supervisor, the Plant Operator Lead will assist the supervisor in setting work priorities, assigning work, and overseeing daily ...

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Find out! We're looking for hard-working plant operators to join our growing team. Competitive pay ... Proficiency with hand and power tools * Ability to work effectively in adverse environmental ...

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

Provides skills for maintaining equipment at the plant Perform clearances in LOTOV under the direction of a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

... operator or supervisor • Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or machine ... to plant operations and maintenance including but not limited to Lockout Tagout, Job Safety ...

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Power Plant Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$20

$44

$62

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator trainee in Virginia is $44.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $58.17 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,206 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR 1ST CLASS/UF

City of Newport News

Newport News, VA • On-site

$44K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


City Of Newport News rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR 1ST CLASS/UF
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All levels of experience will be considered. Please review the requirements of this position at all levels. Target Hiring Ranges Based on Experience: Water Treatment Plant Operator 1st Class: $56,300 - $60,500 - Water Treatment Plant Operator 2nd Class: $46,400 - $55,000 - Water Treatment Plant Operator 3rd Class: $44,400 - $45,000- Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee: $40,000 - $41,400 - SUPPLEMENTAL PAY FOR LICENSED OPERATORS! Water Treatment Plant Operators at Newport News Waterworks receive annual supplemental pay based on their Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) certification level: Class I License: $10,000/year supplemental pay Class II License: $7,500/year supplemental pay Class III License: $5,000/year supplemental pay Trainee: $2,500/year supplemental pay
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : WATERWORKS
Job Family : PROFESSIONAL
Posting Start : 03/04/2026
Posting End : 08/12/2026
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