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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Scoular

Plant Operator

Goodland, KS · On-site

The Plant Operator will be responsible for operating all equipment that is associated with solvent extraction of oil from soybeans and canola in the plant. The Plant Operator will be responsible for ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Plant Operator

Onaga, KS · On-site

$23/hr

This position will also serve as a back-up to Plant Operator I by controlling plant equipment and operations in a full-automated/computer-operated rock crushing plant. Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Hess Services Inc

Concrete Plant Operator

Hays, KS

Hess Services, Inc. is seeking a Concrete Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be ... Skilled in hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. * Comfortable using Microsoft Office and ...

Hess Services Inc

Concrete Plant Operator

Hays, KS · On-site

Hess Services, Inc. is seeking a Concrete Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be ... Skilled in hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. * Comfortable using Microsoft Office and ...

CRH

Asphalt Plant Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$25/hr

Asphalt Plant Operator AMAT Wichita, Kansas, United States Job ID: 527359 APAC-Kansas, Inc., Shears Construction, is a multi-million dollar heavy highway contractor that was established in 1874, and ...

Waste Connections

Recycling Plant Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$19/hr

Stutzman Recycle, a Waste Connections company, is currently searching for a recycling plant operator in South Hutchinson, Kansas. Pay: $19 with overtime Hours: Monday - Friday 5 am - 3:30 pm. DUTIES ...

Hess Services, Inc

Concrete Plant Operator

Hays, KS · On-site

Hess Services, Inc. is seeking a Concrete Plant Operator to join our team. In this role, you'll be ... Skilled in hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. * Comfortable using Microsoft Office and ...

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Power Plant Operator information

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$18

$39

$56

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Kansas is $39.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.78 and $52.31 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 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.

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.
More about Power Plant Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs?

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

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

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

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,946 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Power Plant Specialist

KUMC University of Kansas Medical Center

Kansas City, KS

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Department:FM Applegate Energy Center

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Applegate Energy CenterPosition Title:Power Plant SpecialistJob Family Group: Professional StaffJob Description Summary:Power Plant Specialists are responsible for the operation and maintenance of equipment and utilities in KUMC's central utility plant, the Applegate Energy Center (AEC). AEC services are provided on a continuous 24/7 schedule. This position requires a basic understanding of boiler systems, chilled water systems, and electrical distribution systems, and works under the guidance of senior plant operators to resolve equipment issues.Job Description:

Job Duties

Plant Operations & Maintenance

  • Monitor and operate equipment essential to normal and emergency operations of the power plant, using Delta V Distributed Control System.

  • Maintain all system parameters through a combination of automated and manual controls.

  • Identify and troubleshoot systems, equipment, and machinery malfunctions, working with senior plant operators to correct issues.

  • Perform routine water testing and maintain proper chemical treatment parameters.

  • Perform start-up and shutdown of operating equipment.

  • Operate and monitor multiple 40,000 lb.+ steam generating boilers.

  • Operate and monitor multiple 1,250-ton centrifugal chillers.

  • Monitor and operate medium-voltage electrical distribution systems, including 13.8-kV switchgear and associated protective equipment.

  • Operate emergency power generators through both automated and manual methods.

  • Perform maintenance and repair boiler/chiller associated equipment, pumps, fans, primary/secondary electrical control systems, and pneumatic valves.

  • Maintain and operate domestic water softener system.

  • Maintain daily plant records and log relevant shift activities.

  • Follow all OSHA, KUMC, and departmental safety policies and procedures.

  • Perform Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures before maintenance activities.

  • Recognize and report unsafe conditions.

  • Participate in emergency response and plant safety drills.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. It is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, duties, and assignments.

Work Environment

  • Onsite position based in KUMC's central utility plant (Applegate Energy Center).

  • Operates on a continuous 24/7 schedule; may require rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-in.

  • Exposure to boiler systems, centrifugal chillers, cooling towers, and electrical distribution equipment.

  • Work may involve confined spaces, elevated noise levels, and extreme temperatures.

  • Requires use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

  • Lift, carry, push, or pull 20-50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.

Required Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Work Experience:

  • One (1) year of experience with boilers, chillers, or water chemical treatment.

  • Experience with pneumatic/electrical controls.

Preferred Qualifications

Certifications/Licenses:

  • Certification in stationary engineering or another discipline associated with high- and low-pressure boiler systems.

  • Operating Engineer's License.

Work Experience:

  • Experience with computer-based HVAC automated control systems.

  • Experience with chiller/boiler plant operations.

  • Experience with centrifugal pump operations and maintenance.

  • Experience with mechanical/pneumatic controls operations.

  • Experience with routine preventive maintenance.

  • Water treatment testing experience.

  • Basic electrical experience.

Skills

  • Microsoft Office

Required Documents

  • Resume/CV

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

Coverage begins on day one for health, dental, and vision insurance and includes health expense accounts with generous employer contributions if the employee participates in a qualifying health plan. Employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability insurance, and various additional voluntary insurance plans are available. Paid time off, including vacation and sick, begins accruing upon hire, plus ten paid holidays. One paid discretionary day is available after six months of employment, and paid time off for bereavement, jury duty, military service, and parental leave is available after 12 months of employment. A retirement program with a generous employer contribution and additional voluntary retirement programs (457 or 403b) are available. https://www.kumc.edu/human-resources/benefits.html

Employee Type: RegularTime Type: Full timeRate Type: Hourly

Compensation Statement:

The pay range listed for this position is determined by our compensation program using market data and salary benchmarking. A combination of factors is considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, education, experience and training, qualifications relative to the requirements of the position, and funding. At the University of Kansas Medical Center, a reasonable estimate for the starting pay range will be the minimum to midpoint of the posted range, taking into account the combination of factors listed above.

Pay Range:$24.71 - $35.82

Minimum

$24.71

Midpoint

$30.29

Maximum

$35.82

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