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

Heidelbergmaterials

Plant Operator I

Lithonia, GA

$22 - $28.75/hr

Aggregates Plant Operator I About Us Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S ...

Heidelberg Materials

Plant Operator I

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$22 - $28.75/hr

Aggregates Plant Operator I About Us Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S ...

Pratt Industries

Junior Boiler Operator

Conyers, GA

Minimum of 3 years of experience in power plant and control room operations. * Education: High School Diploma or GED required. * Technical Proficiencies: Practical experience with boiler water ...

Pratt Industries

Junior Boiler Operator

Conyers, GA · On-site

Minimum of 3 years of experience in power plant and control room operations. * Education: High School Diploma or GED required. * Technical Proficiencies: Practical experience with boiler water ...

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

Power Plant Operator information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$19

$43

$61

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Decatur, GA is $43.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $57.26 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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Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,803 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Plant Operator (Water Reclamation)

Clayton County Water Authority

Jonesboro, GA

$26.37 - $46.80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

POSITION:                          Plant Operator

DEPARTMENT:                  Water Reclamation

PAYGRADE:                         PO III - 106 (NE)

                                                  PO II - 107 (NE)

                                                  PO I - 108 (NE)

PAY:                                         PO III - Min: $26.37/hour  Mid: $33.62/hour  Max: $40.88/hour

                                                  PO II - Min: $28.22/hour  Mid: $35.98/hour  Max: $43.74/hour

                                                  PO I - Min: $30.19/hour  Mid: $38.50/hour  Max: $46.80/hour

DEADLINE:                          Open Until Filled

JOB SUMMARY: Plant Operator I

The purpose of this minimally supervised position is to  monitor the water reclamation process and repair wastewater treatment facilities, systems in compliance with state and federal environmental protection standards. Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work; operates solids handling facility turning sludge into a Class A or B biosolids; loads product on trucks; inspects operations; completes PM; ensures smooth operation of burners, air scrubbers, and belt pressers; adjusts controls and processes for optimum performance; calibrates chemical meter and tracks chemical usage; collects and analyzes wastewater and bio-solids samples, conducts weekly telescopic exam of the MLS to check out bug count; treats effluent and surface water; monitors and maintains all treatment processes within the treatment process chain, including pump stations, clarification processes, biological processes, chemical feed processes, solids processing processes, wetland flow structures, pond complex levels, treatment wetland cells, outfall discharges, and related equipment, etc.; monitors the centrifuge and conveyors process; prints paperwork during midnight shift; and monitors and maintains the remote transfer pump station and raw pump station.

JOB SUMMARY: Plant Operator II

The purpose of this position is to not only exercise some discretion but to also monitor processes, plant, and equipment of the wastewater treatment facilities, as assigned, in compliance with state and federal environmental protection standards. Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work; operates solids handling facility turning sludge into a Class A or B biosolids; loads product on trucks; inspects operations; completes PM; ensures smooth operation of burners, air scrubbers, and belt pressers; adjusts controls and processes for optimum performance; calibrates chemical meter and tracks chemical usage; collects and analyzes wastewater and bio-solids samples, conducts weekly telescopic exam of the MLS to check out bug count; treats effluent and surface water; monitors and maintains all treatment processes within the treatment process chain, including pump stations, clarification processes, biological processes, chemical feed processes, solids processing processes, wetland flow structures, pond complex levels, treatment wetland cells, outfall discharges, and related equipment, etc.; monitors the centrifuge and conveyors process; prints paperwork during midnight shift; and monitors and maintains the remote transfer pump station and raw pump station.

JOB SUMMARY: Plant Operator III

Perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work in the operation, maintenance, and repair of the wastewater treatment facilities and systems facilities, as assigned, in compliance with established state and federal environmental guidelines. Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work; operates solids handling facility turning sludge into a Class A or B biosolids; loads product on trucks; inspects operations; completes PM; ensures smooth operation of burners, air scrubbers, and belt pressers; adjusts controls and processes for optimum performance; calibrates chemical meter and tracks chemical usage; collects and analyzes wastewater and bio-solids samples, conducts weekly telescopic exam of the MLS to check out bug count; treats effluent and surface water; monitors and maintains all treatment processes within the treatment process chain, including pump stations, clarification processes, biological processes, chemical feed processes, solids processing processes, wetland flow structures, pond complex levels, treatment wetland cells, outfall discharges, and related equipment, etc.; monitors the centrifuge and conveyors process; prints paperwork during midnight shift; and monitors and maintains the remote transfer pump station and raw pump station.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK:

Plant Operator 1

High school diploma or equivalent plus training in water, wastewater, or natural treatment systems, or a related field depending on assignment; three (3) years of related work experience in water treatment plant operations or wastewater treatment facilities; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and learn, comprehend, and apply all CCWA or departmental policies, practices, and procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.

Required Licenses/Certifications:

Must possess and maintain valid Georgia driver’s license.

Must possess and maintain a Georgia Class I Wastewater Operator License

Preferred Licenses/Certifications:

None 

Plant Operator II

High school diploma or equivalent plus training in water treatment, wastewater treatment, natural treatment systems, or a related field; two (2) years of related work experience in water treatment or wastewater operations depending on assignment; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and learn, comprehend, and apply all CCWA or departmental policies, practices, and procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.

Required Licenses/Certifications:

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.

Must possess and maintain a Georgia Class II Wastewater Operator License

Preferred Licenses/Certifications:

None

Plant Operator III

High school diploma or equivalent; one (1) year of work experience in water or wastewater treatment operations; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and learn, comprehend, and apply all CCWA or departmental policies, practices, and procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.

Required Licenses/Certifications:

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.

Must possess and maintain a Georgia Class III Wastewater Operator License

Preferred Licenses/Certifications:

None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This position classifies the physical exertion requirements involving lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 15 pounds or higher.

Tasks typically involve some combination of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and prolonged standing; tasks may also involve some pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight.

At CCWA, it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees, including temporary employees, and applicants for employment based on qualifications, abilities, and merit. Therefore, CCWA prohibits discrimination against employees, applicants or any other legally covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression), citizenship, genetic information, disability status, past, current, or prospective membership in the uniformed services or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to job advertisements, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, benefits, and training.

Clayton County Water Authority has the right to revise this position description at any time and does not represent in any way a contract of employment.