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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Donohoe Companies Inc., The

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

Responsibilities We are seeking a skilled and dependable Plant Operator to support the operation and maintenance of a large medical facility in Fairfax, VA. This position requires a DC 3rd Class or ...

Donohoe Companies Inc., The

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

We are seeking a skilled and dependable Plant Operator to support the operation and maintenance of a large medical facility in Fairfax, VA. This position requires a DC 3rd Class or Maryland 1st Class ...

Donohoe Companies Inc., The

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Responsibilities We are seeking a skilled and dependable Plant Operator to support the operation and maintenance of a large medical facility in Fairfax, VA. This position requires a DC 3rd Class or ...

kgs

Plant Operator Supervisor

Alexandria, VA

The Plant Operator Supervisor will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Operator Supervisor will be required to ensure that all ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Koniag, Inc.

Plant Operator Supervisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$40 - $41/hr

The Plant Operator Supervisor will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Operator Supervisor will be required to ensure that all ...

kgs

Plant Operator Supervisor

Alexandria, VA · On-site

The Plant Operator Supervisor will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Operator Supervisor will be required to ensure that all ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Reworld

Back Plant Operator

Lorton, VA · On-site

About the role Back Plant Operator As a Back Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the safe ... hand/power tools * Complete routine inspections of assigned equipment and document details in ...

Reworld

Back Plant Operator

Lorton, VA · On-site

About the role Back Plant Operator As a Back Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the safe ... hand/power tools * Complete routine inspections of assigned equipment and document details in ...

Reworld

Back Plant Operator

Dickerson, MD · On-site

About the role As a Back Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and ... hand/power tools * Complete routine inspections of assigned equipment and document details in ...

U.S. Marine Corps

BOILER PLANT OPERATOR

Quantico, VA · On-site +1

$36.49 - $42.63/hr

You will assist in the operation and operational maintenance of multi-fuel power boilers and ... You will serve as "operator in charge" of the Central Heat Plant (i.e, the primary steam or hot ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Washington

Power Plant Operator information

See Washington salary details

$22

$50

$71

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Washington is $50.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.04 and $66.44 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,336 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Plant Operator

Donohoe Companies Inc., The

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Overview

Complete Building Services (CBS) is a company that is passionate about the operation and maintenance of buildings/facilities in the commercial and government sectors. CBS is the largest division of The Donohoe Companies, Inc. - Washington DC's most established real estate company. At CBS, we celebrate and empower our talented employees - and it shows as we have been ranked by the Washington Business Journal as the "Best Place to Work" multiple times. 

Perks & Benefits 

We offer a full slate of benefits, including competitive salaries, medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverages, FSA, flexible vacation, commuter benefits, and a 401k plan with a match. And...we offer some not-so-standard, extra great benefits, including tuition reimbursement for education/certifications, employee discounts programs (including hotels and our vendor's products), and an Employee Assistance Program that offers free financial consultants, therapists, and lawyers. We value diversity and believe in forming teams in which everyone can be their authentic self is the key to our success. Come join us, and find out what the best work of your career could look like for you.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a skilled and dependable Plant Operator to support the operation and maintenance of a large medical facility in Fairfax, VA.

This position requires a DC 3rd Class or Maryland 1st Class license.

Available Shifts:

Second Shift: 2:00 pm to 10:30 pm

Days: Friday-Tuesday

Salary: $45.00 - $50.00

First Shift: 6:00 am to 2:30 pm

Days: Tuesday-Saturday

First Shift: 6:00 am to 2:30 pm

Days: Friday-Tuesday

Position SummaryOperate, monitor, and maintain central utility plant equipment to support safe, reliable building operations. Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel systems. Ensure accurate documentation and adherence to safety and compliance requirements. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor boiler systems; support basic boiler water chemistry and treatment activities.
  • Operate and monitor chiller systems, including cooling towers, condenser/chilled water pumps, and related equipment.
  • Perform routine generator operational checks and maintain basic generator run logs.
  • Support diesel fuel operations for dual-fired equipment, including tank inspections and familiarity with equipment controls/monitoring.
  • Utilize BAS to monitor equipment status, alarms, and trends; Siemens Desigo experience is a plus.
  • Document rounds, readings, and operational activities per site standards.
Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.
  • Working knowledge of boiler operations and basic chemistry concepts.
  • Basic generator run log knowledge and documentation experience.
  • Experience supporting diesel fuel systems and tank inspections for dual-fired equipment.
  • BAS operational experience (monitoring, alarm response, basic navigation).

Required Qualifications

  • DC 3rd Class Engineer license or Maryland 1st Class Engineer license
  • EPA 608 (Universal CFC)

EOE, including disability/veterans

IND123

Employment Type: OTHER

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