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Power Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Springfield, MO

City of Springfield, MO

Plant Operator II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$39K - $66K/yr

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training * At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such ...

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Power Plant Operator Trainee information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$18

$40

$57

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

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator trainee in Springfield, MO is $40.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.36 and $53.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an operator trainee?

A power plant operator trainee is responsible for learning how to monitor and control the equipment and systems that generate electricity. They assist experienced operators in maintaining safe and efficient plant operations, often under supervision, and may need to obtain certifications or licenses to operate specific machinery. The role involves gaining technical knowledge of plant processes, safety procedures, and operational protocols.

How hard is it to become a power plant operator?

Becoming a power plant operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining on-the-job training, and obtaining relevant certifications or licenses. The process involves learning complex systems, safety protocols, and often passing written and practical exams, making it a challenging but achievable career path for those with technical aptitude and attention to detail.

What is a Power Plant Operator Trainee job?

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.

How much does it pay to work at a power plant?

Power plant operator trainees typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on location, experience, and the specific power plant. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with training and certification, salaries can increase as skills and responsibilities grow.

How long is power plant operator school?

Power plant operator training programs typically last from several weeks to several months, depending on the facility and whether the trainee is enrolled in a formal apprenticeship or technical school. The training includes classroom instruction on plant systems, safety procedures, and hands-on experience operating equipment. Additional certification or licensing may be required before fully qualifying for the role.

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 Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Springfield, MO? For Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO 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 Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,599 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Plant Operator II

City of Springfield (MO)

Springfield, MO

$39K - $66K/yr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

539th of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Description Are you interested in being part of an award winning team. The City of Springfield is committed to protecting the water quality of the Ozarks for many generations to come. The Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plants (SWTP) is an award winning wastewater treatment facility for the City of Springfield and is searching for qualified candidates to fill the position of Plant Operator II.

The Plant Operator II shall perform specialized skilled work in the operation and routine maintenance of sludge conditioning and thickening equipment, mixed media filtration, cryogenic oxygen generation and ozone generation facilities. For more information on the SWTP click here. **PLEASE NOTE WORK SCHEDULE BELOW: SWTP - 2:30AM - 2:30PM or 2:30PM - 2:30AM - 12-hour shifts (Rotation either Sunday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Saturday) THIS POSITION HAS THE OPTION TO UNDERFILL WITH A PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE.

Don't forget to review the amazing benefits - Click Here. Qualifications and Requirements Plant Operator II Experience, Education, and Training Two years of college or vo-tech training in wastewater technology, chemical or biological sciences or a related area; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; AND Two years experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area; Directly related work experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis, and double credit may be given for direct City of Springfield Plant Operator Trainee experience. Licensing/Certification At time of hire, must possess a valid Missouri Class "D" Wastewater Operator's Certificate or equivalent; Must obtain and maintain a Class "C" Wastewater Operator's Certificate within the probationary period; Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within the probationary period.

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such as plant or infrastructural maintenance; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; Possession of current Class D Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations Certificate may be substituted for experience/degree requirement. Licensing/Certification Obtain and maintain a Missouri class "D" wastewater treatment plant operations certificate within probationary period. Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within 120 days of employment.

Functions Plant Operator II For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary - $39,561.60 - $64,708.80 Annually Underfill - Plant Operator Trainee For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary -$38,064.00 - $56,430.40 Annually Other Requirements The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave.

Springfield, MO 65802. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace.

Pre-employment drug testing is required. All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.

Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.

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