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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Essity

Power Plant Boiler Operator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$25.50 - $34.50/hr

Power Plant Boiler Operator Who We Are Essity is a global leader in health and hygiene headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, with a North American headquarters located in Philadelphia, PA. We are a ...

Olon USA LLC

Plant Operator

Painesville, OH · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Chemical Manufacturing Operato r Plant Operator (Technician II) OLON USA LLC is seeking qualified chemical manufacturing operator candidates to execute batch processes within the sites pilot plant ...

Olon USA LLC

Plant Operator

Painesville, OH · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Chemical Manufacturing Operato r Plant Operator (Technician II) OLON USA LLC is seeking qualified chemical manufacturing operator candidates to execute batch processes within the sites pilot plant ...

Hall's Culligan Water

Plant Operator

Cleveland, OH

$20.50/hr

As a Plant Operator, you'll play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the warehouse by performing various tasks related to inventory management, bottling, portable exchange tank ...

Hall's Culligan Water

Plant Operator

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$20.50/hr

As a Plant Operator, you'll play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the warehouse by performing various tasks related to inventory management, bottling, portable exchange tank ...

CRH Ohio, LTD

Plant Operator

Cleveland, OH

$20.50/hr

As a Plant Operator, you'll play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the warehouse by performing various tasks related to inventory management, bottling, portable exchange tank ...

Vision RNG

PLANT OPERATOR

Fostoria, OH · On-site

The plant operator will ensure communications are maintained between plant personnel and local landfill staff. They will support plant operations, construction and well field tuning. Responsibilities ...

Vision RNG

PLANT OPERATOR

Fostoria, OH · On-site

The plant operator will ensure communications are maintained between plant personnel and local landfill staff. They will support plant operations, construction and well field tuning. Responsibilities ...

VisionRNG

PLANT OPERATOR

Fostoria, OH · On-site

The plant operator will ensure communications are maintained between plant personnel and local landfill staff. They will support plant operations, construction and well field tuning. Responsibilities ...

necoTECH

Be Seen First

Plant Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Prior plant manager or supervisory experience in an asphalt or related environment * Experience operating loaders, skid steers, and/or telehandlers * Familiarity with asphalt mix designs, quality ...

Vistra Energy

Power Plant Intern

Hanging Rock, OH

$14 - $18.50/hr

Shadow operators during field rounds and learn how operators assess equipment condition through ... Power LLC Locations Hanging Rock Plant Ohio We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding ...

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All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Ohio

Power Plant Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$19

$42

$60

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Ohio is $42.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.56 and $55.77 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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Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,419 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Power Plant IC&E Technician

Consolidated Asset Management Services

Cheshire, OH • On-site

$34.70 - $51.16/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description
General James M. Gavin Power Plant is a 2,600-megawatt supercritical coal-fired power station in the village of Cheshire, Ohio, United States.
The Instrument Control Technician Performs technical and specialized work of a skilled nature in connection with electrical and control systems; analysis, detection, and repair of single loop control systems, electronic, devices, communication systems, and instruments such as meters, gauges, and regulators. The Instrument and Control Technician assists others in making tests, surveys and layout work and the development of reports documenting results.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform technical and specialized work of a skilled nature in connection with the repair and maintenance of electrical and solid-state electronic systems, communication systems, instrument and control systems, equipment interlocks, computers, annunciator systems, and recorders.
  • Actively participate in job briefs and safety discussions. Maintain a strong focus on hazard identification and elimination. Perform work in accordance with the policies, practices, standards, and rules of the company.
  • Participate in accident investigations when requested.
  • Maintain safe working conditions, use of proper tools, equipment, and protective clothing & devices. Keep work areas clean; check and maintain assigned housekeeping areas.
  • Take a collaborative approach to problem solving. Work with energy production, maintenance personnel, and others to resolve immediate equipment problems and ensure equipment is repaired safely and efficiently.
  • Actively seek ways to improve productivity and equipment reliability. Investigate abnormal operating conditions, equipment failures, equipment design issues, operating and maintenance problems.
  • Review, update, revise drawings and other documentation and/or procedures as needed. Assist with technical and safety training of others.
  • Assist or perform, as directed, analytical work in connection with equipment testing, chemical analyses, engineering studies and calculations related to the operating efficiency of power plant equipment and assist engineers and others performing technical services.
  • Work fair share of holdover, scheduled, and call-out overtime which at times may include weekend or night shift coverage for urgent jobs or startup support.
  • Perform similar or less skilled tasks and other duties as assigned.

Requirements
  • 2-year Assoc. Degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent
  • Knowledge and skill necessary to perform the installation, inspection, repair, adjustment, calibration and servicing of instrumentation, controls, and electrical equipment
  • Strong math skills and understanding of fundamental chemistry principles
  • Computer Skills: MS Office and applications related to Instrumentation and Controls. Experience with OSIsoft (Pi), Sharepoint, and Work Management systems (such as Asset Suite and PaSTA) preferred
  • Ability to read, interpret and work from simple prints, sketches, and specifications. Analytical skills and the ability to develop solutions to problems
  • Interpersonal skills to work and communicate effectively with involved company personnel, work team members, technicians, supervisory personnel, contractors, vendors, etc
  • Desire to learn and share knowledge with others
  • Commitment to safety and a willingness to communicate on unsafe acts and conditions when discovered

Other Desirable Skills
  • Successful completion of the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) and the Plant Maintenance Selection System (MASS) tests are required for this position.
  • Possess a valid State driver's license.
  • Must satisfactorily complete and exhibit competency, in such time frames as may be established by the Company, all required training to advance to Control Technician or vacate the Control Technician Junior classification.
  • Able to work rotating shifts.
  • A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.

Physical Requirements
  • Climb ladders & stairs several times each day
  • Use of hands and fine dexterity to move controls to precise locations
  • Communicate plant information by phone, in person, or by radio
  • Work on heights, grating, platforms, and catwalks
  • Lift up to 50 lbs occasionally, 35 lbs frequently
  • Push/Pull up to 60 lbs
  • May require overhead work and/or sustained awkward positioning
  • Able to sit, stand, or walk continuously for up to 12 hours
  • Able to climb in/out of heavy equipment (up to 30-inch step to enter/exit)
  • Able to work in dirty or dusty environments, high heat, or extreme cold

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