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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

River Asphalt ll

Plant Operator

Delmar, DE · On-site

Overview River Asphalt II , a division of The H&K Group, Inc. , located in Delmar, DE, is looking for the ideal Plant Operator to provide smooth operator of plant equipment. The ideal candidate is ...

Haverford College

$30/hr

Perform preventive maintenance on all power house equipment and clean all boilers once per year ... The Central Heating Plant Operator position reports to the Manager of Central Plant and Mechanical ...

River Asphalt ll

Plant Operator

Delmar, DE · On-site

Overview River Asphalt II , a division of The H&K Group, Inc. , located in Delmar, DE, is looking for the ideal Plant Operator to provide smooth operator of plant equipment. The ideal candidate is ...

River Asphalt ll

Plant Operator

Delmar, DE · On-site

Overview River Asphalt II , a division of The H&K Group, Inc. , located in Delmar, DE, is looking for the ideal Plant Operator to provide smooth operator of plant equipment. The ideal candidate is ...

River Asphalt ll

Plant Operator (Delmar)

Delmar, DE · On-site

Overview River Asphalt II , a division of The H&K Group, Inc. , located in Delmar, DE, is looking for the ideal Plant Operator to provide smooth operator of plant equipment. The ideal candidate is ...

DCO Energy, LLC

Control Operator

Smyrna, DE · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Control Room Operator Experienced and apprentice positions available. Job Summary: Responsible for ... Operates, maintains, and repairs power plant equipment including but not limited to gas turbines ...

CRH

Sand Plant/Dredge Operator

Dover, DE

Our 24,100 employees at 1,300 operating locations provide our customers with top-quality, innovative products and services. Position Overview Operate and assist in maintenance of plant and dredge at ...

TXU Retail Services Company

$120 - $180/hr

Represent Plant Support Engineering on outage management teams * Direct monitoring of plant systems ... to power 20 million homes, operating in all of the major competitive wholesale markets in the ...

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Power Plant Operator information

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$20

$44

$63

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Delaware is $44.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.10 and $58.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant operator?

Power Plant Operators are professionals responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining the equipment that generates electric power in power plants. They ensure that the plant runs efficiently, safely, and within regulatory standards by adjusting controls, reading meters, and responding to abnormalities or emergencies. Their duties often include starting or stopping equipment, troubleshooting issues, and performing routine inspections and maintenance. Operators may work with a variety of energy sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, or renewable resources. This role requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.

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 understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, operational procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring further technical training or certification. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) software, and safety protocols is critical for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top operators apart. These competencies are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of power in compliance with regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by power plant operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Power Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, responding to alarms quickly, and maintaining focus during long shifts, including nights and weekends. New hires can prepare by gaining a solid understanding of plant systems, actively participating in on-the-job training, and developing strong communication skills to coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams. Staying vigilant, adhering to safety protocols, and asking questions when unsure can help new operators adapt more efficiently to the demanding environment.

What is the difference between Power Plant Operator vs Boiler Operator?

AspectPower Plant OperatorBoiler Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma; licensing or certification often requiredHigh school diploma; boiler operator license or certification often required
Work EnvironmentPower plants, generating electricity from various sourcesBoiler rooms, manufacturing plants, or power plants
Industry UsageElectricity generation, energy productionSteam generation, heating systems, industrial processes
Job FunctionsOperate and monitor power plant equipment to generate electricityOperate and maintain boilers to produce steam or heat

Both roles involve operating equipment in energy or industrial settings and require similar certifications. Power Plant Operators focus on electricity generation, while Boiler Operators primarily manage steam and heating systems. The choice depends on the specific industry and equipment involved.

How hard is it to become a power plant operator?

Becoming a power plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship that can last several years. Operators often need to obtain certifications such as a license from the relevant regulatory agency, and strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in shifts are important for success in this role.

What does a power plant operator do at a power plant?

A power plant operator controls and monitors the equipment that generates electricity, ensuring the plant runs efficiently and safely. They start and stop machinery, adjust controls, perform routine inspections, and respond to alarms or issues, often working with control panels and requiring technical knowledge of plant systems. Certification and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.
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For Power Plant Operator jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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Cities in Delaware with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:

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

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,084 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Power Plant Operator I - Wilmington

ChristianaCare

Wilmington, DE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

ChristianaCare rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 893 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Details
Do you want to work at one of the Top 100 Hospitals in the nation? We are guided by our values of Love and Excellence and are passionate about delivering health, not just health care. Come join us at ChristianaCare!
ChristianaCare is looking for a full-time Certified Power Plant Operator I in Wilmington, Delaware to operate multiple high-pressure boilers/steam plant and auxiliary equipment such as plant air compressors, fuel and feed water systems. To operate multiple refrigeration machines and chiller plants including auxiliary equipment such as cooling towers, condenser and chilled water pumps and chemical treatment systems.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operates steam generation plant for heating, dietary, humidification, laundry processes and sterilization. The ability to maintain steam systems at required pressures and temperatures.
  • Operates and monitors various chiller plants and related equipment/systems.
  • Monitors and reports any alarms associated with ATS, Emergency Generator and medical gas panels.
  • Monitors gauges and meters to determine operating condition of power plant.
  • Reports and logs about unusual conditions.
  • Maintains a clean and safe workstation.
  • Performs all aspects of operator maintenance.
  • Performs chemical tests for water in boiler systems, chiller plants and maintains appropriate chemical levels.
  • Starts and stops boilers, chillers and related equipment as needed for load transfer or maintenance reasons.
  • Cleans condenser tubes on chillers as scheduled prior to cooling season.
  • Loads/unloads auxiliary equipment record data (e.g., hours of operation, temperatures, pressure, fuel consumption).
  • Maintains adequate oil levels in storage tanks for proper operation of power plant equipment.
  • Assists boiler room maintenance personnel in equipment repair, replacement and modification.
  • Assists in the take down and repair of boilers for annual inspection.
  • Participate in certification exercises, shop meetings and other activities required to gain information and instructions that will keep the Power Plant operating effectively and efficiently.
  • Performs assigned work safely adhering to established departmental safety rules and practices. Reports to supervisor in a timely manner of any unsafe activities, conditions, hazards or safety violations that may cause injury to oneself, other employees, patients and visitors.
  • Performs all duties in accordance with the Power Plant Operator list of responsibilities for each designated shift.

Hours: Rotating Shifts - Mandatory overtime if needed to maintain plant coverage
Education and Experience Requirements:
High School Graduate or Equivalent.
Current Driver License.
Stationary Engineering License (preferred).
One (1) year previous experience in operation of high-pressure steam plant (preferred).
Special requirements:
A City of Wilmington Fireman's License, or any higher level of License (1st, 2nd or 3rd class Engineers license) if assigned and scheduled to work alone at the Wilmington Hospital. This license is not required for the Christiana Hospital Campus.
Other City and State Stationary Engineering Licenses such as the City of Philadelphia Engineer Class "A" license, Maryland Engineering License or New Jersey Engineering License may be considered.
Must be able to successfully demonstrate the ability to complete the Christiana Care Stationary Engineer Exam within the first 90 days of employment. This Exam is consistent with the Wilmington Fireman's & 3rd Class Engineering License Exams.
Physical demands:
Strenuous work associated with direct power plant systems repair including operating chain falls and large wrenches, climbing cooling towers, boiler tops, ladder work and bending and stooping over equipment.
Working conditions:
Exposure to hot, high-pressure steam, pressurized hot water, oils, grease, hot surfaces, chemical fumes, soot, dust, heat and noise. Exposure to burns, scalds, eye and ear hazards and falls.
ChristianaCare Offers:
  • Collaborative and team focused environment
  • Full Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, etc.
  • 403(b)
  • Generous paid time off
  • Incredible Work/Life benefits including annual membership to care.com, access to backup care services for dependents through Care@Work, retirement planning services, financial coaching, fitness and wellness reimbursement, and phenomenal discounts through several vendors for hotels, rental cars, theme parks, shows, sporting events, movie tickets and much more!

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
This position has a starting rate of $33.92 per hour, regardless of prior experience. After six months of continuous employment, the hourly rate will automatically increase to $37.78 per hour. After one year of continuous employment, the hourly rate will automatically increase to $41.63.
This pay rate/range represents ChristianaCare's good faith and reasonable estimate of compensation at the time of posting. The actual salary within this range offered to a successful candidate will depend on individual factors including without limitation skills, relevant experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements.
Christiana Care Health System is an equal opportunity employer, firmly committed to prohibiting discrimination, whose staff is reflective of its community, and considers qualified applicants for open positions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
Post End Date
Aug 29, 2026
EEO Posting Statement
ChristianaCare offers a competitive suite of employee benefits to maximize the wellness of you and your family, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement, an employee assistance program. To learn more about our benefits for eligible positions visit https://careers.christianacare.org/benefits-compensation/

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About ChristianaCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ChristianaCare is one of the country's most dynamic health care organizations, centered on improving health outcomes, making high-quality care more accessible and lowering health care costs. ChristianaCare includes an extensive network of outpatient services, home health care, urgent care centers, three hospitals (1,299 beds), a free-standing emergency department, a Level I trauma center and a Level III neonatal intensive care unit, a comprehensive stroke center and regional centers of excellence in heart and vascular care, cancer care and women's health. It also includes the pioneering Gene Editing Institute and was rated by IDG Computerworld as one of the nation's Best Places to Work in IT. ChristianaCare is a nonprofit teaching health system with more than 260 residents and fellows. It is continually ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Hospital. With the unique CareVio data-powered care coordination service and a focus on population health and value-based care, ChristianaCare is shaping the future of health care.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Wilmington, DE, US

Year founded

1888

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