ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Power Plant Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Calpine

IC&E Technician III

Decatur, AL

$42.92 - $53.65/hr

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... Optimize plant preventative maintenance program to meet OEM recommendations, regulatory ...

Calpine

IC&E Technician III

Decatur, AL · On-site

$42.92 - $53.65/hr

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... Optimize plant preventative maintenance program to meet OEM recommendations, regulatory ...

ITW Automotive

Forklift Operator

Decatur, AL

$14 - $16.50/hr

This Forklift Operator is responsible for properly loading, unloading, storing, verifying, and shipping materials in plant. The incumbent will also ensure the shipment of customer samples and ...

Tenneco

OS & CI Engineer

Athens, AL · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Lead plant-wide continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem ... Coach operators, supervisors, and cross-functional teams on continuous improvement tools and daily ...

Tenneco

OS & CI Engineer

Athens, AL

$76K - $101K/yr

Lead plant-wide continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem ... Coach operators, supervisors, and cross-functional teams on continuous improvement tools and daily ...

Griffin Associates

ASSEMBLERS II

Arab, AL · On-site

$21/hr

... OR Machine Operators Will Have Plant Tour To See YOURSELF Full Time 40 HOURS = 570 wk OT is ... Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Automation Software Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Griffin Associates

LITE Manufacturing

Arab, AL · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Have Plant Tour *Then Start INTERVIEW: Call M-F 8am to 5pm 256-640-8181 * Jeans, T-Shirt with Full ... Assembly / Machine Operators / Packaging * 40 hours = 570 * Add 1 Saturday = 740 * BENEFITS: Medial ...

Griffin Associates

Light Assembly III

Arab, AL

$21/hr

Arab, AL More about this job > Description Light Assembly III OR Machine Operators III Choose 1st ... Will Have Plant Tour To See YOURSELF Full Time 40 HOURS = 570 wk **OT is Volunteer $21 hr **More ...

Griffin Associates

ELECTRONIC ASSEMBLERS

Arab, AL

$21/hr

WILL Train Assembly OR Machine Operators Will Have Plant Tour To See YOURSELF Full Time 40 HOURS ... Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Automation Software Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Griffin Associates

OPERATORS Manufacturing

Arab, AL · On-site

$21/hr

OPERATORS Manufacturing ID: 1336 Location: Arab, AL More about this job > Description Growth ... Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Automation Software Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Kohler

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$21.20/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Onsite - Huntsville , AL Competitive Compensation: Starting at $20.29 ... Participates in the safety and good housekeeping programs as established within the plant.

Kohler Co.

Forklift Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$20.29/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Onsite - Huntsville, AL Competitive Compensation: Starting at $20.29 ... Participates in the safety and good housekeeping programs as established within the plant.

PCA

Forklift Operator, 2nd Shift

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$21.72/hr

Basic Qualifications High school diploma/GED. 6+ month's prior experience operating a forklift ... Annual - Based upon achievement of plant performance metrics. * Paid Vacation: 1 week per calendar ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Power Plant Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$18

$41

$59

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Decatur, AL is $41.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.17 and $55.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does it pay to work at a power plant?

Power plant operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000, with wages varying based on experience, location, and the complexity of the plant. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators or those working in specialized facilities can earn over $100,000 annually.

What are Power Plant Operators?

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 does an operator do at a power plant?

A power plant operator controls and monitors equipment such as turbines, generators, and boilers to ensure the plant runs efficiently and safely. They perform routine inspections, adjust controls, and respond to alarms or malfunctions, often working in shifts and requiring technical skills and certifications. Their role is essential for maintaining continuous power generation and safety standards.

What Does a Power Plant Operator Do?

As a power plant operator, your duties are to operate and maintain equipment that generates power and regulate these generators to control the output and storage of energy. You also manage the proper flow of electricity and voltage based on consumer demands. At a nuclear power plant, for example, you adjust control rods which generate power, and monitor the reactors, wind turbines, and cooling systems to ensure they operate within specified parameters. At a solar installation, your responsibilities are to monitor heat transfer and position and adjust solar panels or mirrors based on meteorological conditions.

How difficult 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. Many operators also obtain certifications or licenses, such as a state license or a nuclear power plant operator license, which involve passing written and practical exams. The job demands technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a power plant operator?

Power plant operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship. Many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education in power plant technology or related fields, and some roles require certification or licensing depending on the state or facility.

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.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

Power plant operators typically do not earn $3,000 a day; their salaries are usually much lower. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed this level include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, and highly experienced pilots, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience. These roles often involve significant responsibility, long hours, and specialized skills.

What is the highest salary for a plant operator?

Power plant operators can earn high salaries, with the top earners making over $100,000 annually, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand regions. Factors such as certifications, shift work, and the complexity of the plant can influence salary levels.
More about Power Plant Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:
Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,187 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
IC&E Technician III

IC&E Technician III

Calpine

Decatur, AL

$42.92 - $53.65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Calpine, a business unit of Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG), is America's largest generator of electricity from natural gas and geothermal resources with operations in competitive power markets. With 79 energy facilities in operation, Calpine’s fleet has the capacity to generate approximately 27,000 MW of electricity – enough to power approximately 27 million homes. Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states and Canada. Its clean, efficient, modern and flexible fleet uses advanced technologies to generate power in a low-carbon and environmentally responsible manner.

The company was established on the premise that a strong commitment to the environment is inextricably linked to excellence in power generation and corporate responsibility. Since its founding in 1984, Calpine has led the power industry in its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. In addition, its renewable geothermal plants use steam generated deep below the earth's surface to produce clean, renewable electricity.

Job Summary (includes but is not limited to the following; other duties may be assigned)

Maintains and repairs electrical equipment and instrumentation. Monitors, maintains, and repairs plant Distributed Control System (DCS). Monitors, maintain, and repairs gas turbine, steam turbine control systems, generators, transformers, and switchgear. Maintain, calibrate and repair plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems. Perform routine trouble shooting activities. Use Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to effectively accomplish required maintenance in and efficient and organized manner. Optimize plant preventative maintenance program to meet OEM recommendations, regulatory requirements, and corporate maintenance philosophy. Responsible for maintaining logs, manuals, records, blueprints and operating procedures in a neat and professional manner. Provide written reports on control system conditions when required. Incorporates safe behavior into all activities and consistently complies with all established safety and health policies and procedures, helps to identify and eliminate or actively manage risks in all work activities.

Job Responsibilities

  • Senior-level; recognized technical expertise in own and possibly related functions.
  • Performs a variety of complex technical service/support duties requiring specialized knowledge.
  • Regularly makes decisions on non-routine or escalated technical issues.
  • Independently prioritizes and executes responsibilities effectively for a single trade, group of related tasks or functional area.
  • Checks own work and possibly the work of others; work results are of the highest quality standards and advanced technical competency.
  • Errors may be serious, usually not subject to direct verification or check.
  • Duties and tasks reflect substantial variety and complexity.
  • Resolves the most complex technical issues, conferring with Team Leader occasionally; may serve as resource to others in resolution of complex issues.
  • Works under limited supervision.
  • Prioritizes own weekly schedule and may guide others in the completion of tasks within clearly defined schedules as set by management.
  • Regularly provides on-the-job skills training to others in complex technical areas.

Job Requirements

  • High School Diploma, degree from technical/vocational school or equivalent.
  • Senior-level; minimum of 5 years of experience in instrument/electrical and control system applications.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with an advanced understanding of chemistry, physics, electricity and mathematics.
  • Experience with DCS programming and configuration
  • Advanced certifications/licensures. Valid state driver’s license.

Salary Information

  • Hourly Rate Range - $42.92 to $53.65 /hour

Additional Calpine Information:

  • Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.
  • Calpine is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website or to apply for a position, please send an e-mail with your request to hrrecruitment@calpine.com. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation are made on case-by-case basis.

Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here

Apply