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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

City of Bryan, TX

BTU-Power Plant Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

$28.90/hr

Position Details Position Information Posting Number 2026594 Position Title BTU-Power Plant Operator Position # #9000050 FLSA Non-Exempt Classification Type Labor/Maintenance/Technical Department ...

Airswift

Power Plant Operator (Outside)

Gregory, TX · On-site

Power Plant Operator (Outside) Duration: 9 months initially with possibility of extension Location: Gregory, Texas Rotation: 7/7 rotation - 7 days on, 7 days off (12 hours per day) Role Context This ...

CPS Energy

Dir Power Plant

San Antonio, TX · On-site

We are engineers, high line workers, power plant managers, accountants, electricians, project coordinators, risk analysts, customer service operators, community representatives, safety and security ...

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Power Plant Operator information

See Texas salary details

$18

$41

$59

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Texas is $41.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.98 and $54.66 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.
More about Power Plant Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,648 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

BTU-Power Plant Operator

City of Bryan, TX

Bryan, TX • On-site

$28.90/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Posting Number
2026594
Position Title
BTU-Power Plant Operator
Position #
#9000050
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Classification Type
Labor/Maintenance/Technical
Department
Electric Utilities (BTU) - Generation
Job Type
Full Time
Work Schedule
Rotating 12 hour shift
5:30am-5:30pm & 5:30pm-5:30am
Hiring Pay Rate
$ 20.30-$28.90/hour ( depending on qualifications)
Posting Opening Date
07/17/2026
Posting Closing Date
Job Summary
The Power Plant Operator is expected to acquire the skills and knowledge to monitor, operate, and maintain electrical power plant equipment at the Roland C. Dansby Power Plant. The position will be actively engaged in a formal training program, approximately 18-24 months long, consisting of classroom, computer-based, and on-the-job training to acquire the necessary skills/knowledge and understanding to operate equipment used in the production of electricity.
Roland C. Dansby Power Plant is the primary natural gas-fired resource for Bryan Texas Utilities (BTU). The power plant is a three-unit power plant consisting of a 110MW gas-fired steam turbine and two 48MW simple-cycle gas turbines with a total capacity of 206MW. The power plant acts as a physical hedge for BTU's power supply and is used as a peaking to intermediate resource.
Essential Job Functions
  • Plans, coordinates, and participates in regulatory compliance activities to include but not limited to, air emissions, water, wastewater, NERC, ERCOT, and facility compliance programs.
  • Assists with operations and maintenance planning activities, to include developing work plans and schedules, procuring materials, and contacting contractors.
  • Participates in the startup, operation, and shutdown of gas turbines, steam turbines, boilers, electric generators, gas compressors, and associated power plant equipment in both routine and emergency situations.
  • Performs electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation maintenance tasks as assigned.
  • Performs water quality analysis and ensures plant chemistry program parameters are maintained.
  • Performs water production duties.
  • Performs special studies/projects as assigned by production management.
  • Continue education in an assigned trade skills training program in electrical, mechanical, or instrumentation, as well as continuing education in power plant operations.
  • Performs related duties as required.
  • Responds regularly and promptly to work.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma/GED.
  • At least 1 year of work experience in a power plant or work experience performing semi-skilled and/or skilled manual labor that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the job.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • Standard practices, tools, and terminology used in a plant environment.

Ability to:
  • Learn the principles, procedures, and techniques of power plant operations and maintenance.
  • Follow instructions and communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
  • Safely and efficiently operate, maneuver, and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and materials used in performing essential functions.
  • Initiate positive and appropriate corrective action in the event of a sudden accident or equipment failure.
  • Interpret technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.
  • Perform heavy manual labor for extended periods.
  • Use a personal computer and related software applications as needed.
  • Maintain accurate and complete logs, records, and files.
  • Take the initiative to learn individual job tasks and continue to broaden knowledge levels by willingly accepting new responsibilities and attending training to advance skills.
  • Handle multiple tasks, prioritize and organize work assignments, and meet established deadlines.
  • Comply with City and departmental administrative directives, policies, and procedures.
  • Remain constantly alert and aware of any workplace hazards and follow the safety practices and principles in reporting and preventing accidents.
  • Demonstrate satisfactory work performance and regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
  • Provide management with sound, positive advice, and information concerning the area of responsibility.
  • Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work and communicate effectively with the public and other required entities.

Licenses, Certifications & Special Requirements
  • Texas Class C driver's license with a good driving record as measured by the City's evaluation system.
  • Participates in an on-call rotation schedule for power plant related issues.

Physical Demands
Physical demands include but are not limited to: sitting, talking, hearing, seeing, standing, walking, driving, stooping, kneeling, reaching, pushing, pulling, twisting, bending, crawling, climbing, and using hands and fingers to operate equipment and to lift or move objects up to 70 pounds.
Working Conditions
Works in a power plant environment with exposure to indoor and outdoor conditions, inclement weather, temperature extremes, heights, overhead hazards, noise, vibration, rotating machinery, cramped/confined spaces, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, open flames, sparks, odors, smoke, fumes, chemicals, dust, and other airborne pollutants.
Equipment
Work shall be performed with tools, appliances, and equipment approved by those agencies and bodies that have control, authority, or approval of the design working ranges or limitations of those items; the employee has the responsibility to conform to those ranges and limitations.
Equipment may include but is not limited to: boilers, steam turbines, combustion turbines, generators, power and hand tools, pumps, motors, water test equipment, gauges, valves, ladders, computer, phone, vehicles, and forklifts.
Additional Notes/Instructions for Applicants
This job description is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. City management has exclusive rights to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an 'at-will' relationship.
Quicklink for Posting
https://www.bryantxjobs.com/postings/5073

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