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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI ยท On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

Power Plant Operator Department: Community Reintegration Center Full-time, Hourly Hourly Range $32.01 - $48.01/hr Job Summary: The Power Plant Operator ensures an efficient and safe operation of the ...

Power Plant Operator Department: Community Reintegration Center Full-time, Hourly Hourly Range $32.01 - $48.01/hr Job Summary: The Power Plant Operator ensures an efficient and safe operation of the ...

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is seeking a Power Plant Operator to join our team. Operates and evaluates all power plant equipment for efficiency and safety. Adjusts gauges and dials, reads ...

Heating Plant Operator I Job Category: University Staff Employment Type: Regular Job Profile: Heat ... Ability to work toward obtaining an ASOPE Power Plant Op Eng 3rd Class license How to Apply: TO ...

Technical training in power plant operation is required. Technical training in refrigeration or ... LICENSURE DESCRIPTION: Valid Wisconsin driver's license is required. 3rd Class Operator ...

Technical training in power plant operation is required. Technical training in refrigeration or ... LICENSURE DESCRIPTION: Valid Wisconsin driver's license is required. 3rd Class Operator ...

Plant Operator

Oak Creek, WI ยท On-site

$54.31/hr

The Plant Operator investigates abnormal operating conditions, initiates corrective action, performs preventative maintenance and make routine repairs. * The employee may at times assist others with ...

The Plant Operator investigates abnormal operating conditions, initiates corrective action, performs preventative maintenance and make routine repairs. * The employee may at times assist others with ...

The Plant Operator investigates abnormal operating conditions, initiates corrective action, performs preventative maintenance and make routine repairs. * The employee may at times assist others with ...

Plant Operator

Waukesha, WI ยท On-site

$23.50/hr

R10097264 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Waukesha, WI - Acetylene production & filling How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces ...

Plant Operator

Waukesha, WI ยท On-site

$23.50/hr

R10099285 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Waukesha, WI - Acetylene production & filling How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces ...

Plant Operator

Waukesha, WI ยท On-site

$23.50/hr

R10097264 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Waukesha, WI - Acetylene production & filling How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces ...

Plant Operator

Waukesha, WI ยท On-site

$23.50/hr

R10099285 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Waukesha, WI - Acetylene production & filling How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces ...

Plant Helper

Kronenwetter, WI ยท On-site

$46.75/hr

... Weston Power Plant located in Kronenwetter, Wisconsin. This position is represented by Local No ... This position ensures continuous generation of electricity by operating, monitoring, and ...

R10096000 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Appleton, WI - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique ...

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Power Plant Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$20

$45

$64

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Wisconsin is $45.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.34 and $59.18 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,874 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI โ€ข On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Power Plant Operator

Department: Community Reintegration Center

Full-time, Hourly
Hourly Range $32.01 - $48.01/hr

ย 

Job Summary: The Power Plant Operator ensures an efficient and safe operation of the steam plant through oversight of all the equipment within the steam plant. Provide the Community Reintegration Center with steam for sufficient heat and hot water. Provide steam for various departments (i.e., kitchen, laundry, maintenance) to support the mission of the Community Reintegration Center.

Job Responsibilities

  • Operate High-Pressure Steam Plant - Start, shift, operate/monitor and secure boilers and auxiliary equipment. Recognize abnormal conditions and take corrective action. Inspect and record hourly parameters of operating equipment. Perform boiler bottom and surface blowdowns.
  • Perform Daily Chemical Test Analyses - Chemical test operating boilers, water softener, reverse osmosis, feed water and various condensate systems. Analyze test results. Fill two chemical tanks and adjust chemical pump settings to maintain boiler alkalinity, phosphate and sulfite level as dictated by test results.
  • Regenerate Water Softener and De-alkalizer Resin - Monitor water softener and de-alkalize quality output. Initiate regeneration, monitor and log process when system quality is depleted. Lift, carry and add 80 lb. salt bags to softener and de-alkalize brine tanks to maintain 100% salinity level.
  • Perform Planned Maintenance - Perform daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual planned maintenance duties on boilers and auxiliary equipment as assigned.
  • Maintain Adequate Nitrogen Pressure on Standby Boilers - Transport full/empty nitrogen cylinders to/from Powerhouse at time of delivery. Monitor, maintain and adjust nitrogen system to maintain adequate pressure on standby boiler as per log sheet. Replace depleted nitrogen cylinders as needed.
  • Monitor METASYS Building Automation and Deep Well Pump Systems - Monitor, acknowledge and report METASYS building automation alarms as dictated by alarm status. Inspect and monitor deep well pumping system to supply water for Fish Hatchery. Inspect pumps, piping, and valves for leaks or abnormalities, reporting abnormalities to Supervisor.
  • Maintain a Clean Work Environment - Complete all assigned daily cleaning duties of the Powerhouse.
  • General Facilities Maintenance โ€“ Address requests generated through work orders or other communications means by staff for facilities maintenance service or repairs throughout the campus.
  • Miscellaneous Duties - Maintain accurate logs and records. Convey steam plant status to relief. Tighten valve packing leaks. Replace leaking boiler sight glass and packing. Transport chemical delivery (chemical drums) to Powerhouse. Complete assigned Powerhouse shift orders.
  • Ability to safely and properly operate: boilers and auxiliary equipment, power tools, hand tools, chemical test lab equipment, gauges and computers.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 80 lbs.; and push and pull 200+ lbs.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Education, License/Certification and Experience

  • Current residency within the State of Wisconsin upon application required
  • Valid Wisconsin Driverโ€™s License required upon application and must be maintained throughout incumbency
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalency required
  • One (1) year or more of work experience operating High-pressure Boilers or Steam Plants required
  • Possession of one of the following licenses or permits required upon application: NIULPE 4th Class Stationary Engineer license OR ASOPE 2nd Class license OR City of Milwaukee High-Pressure Boiler Operator's permit (higher-class permits accepted) required
  • The steam plant operates 24/7 and 365 days/year. Must have the ability to multi-task (perform additional/required duties while operating boilers/steam plant entire shift)
  • All Power Plant Operators can be assigned to work any shift as needed
  • All Power Plant Operators work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed

ย 

NOTE: This original application is open to residents of the State of Wisconsin at the time of application. In accordance withย Section 11, Ruleย 3 of theย Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources. APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT THE TIME OF FILING AN APPLICATION.

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