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

Airliquidehr

Plant Operator

Atlanta, GA

R10093139 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Atlanta, GA (South Division) - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? Summary We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace ...

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Vulcan Materials

Plant Operator

Lithia Springs, GA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Plant Operation. Operate plant equipment to regulate flow of materials to and from conveyors, chutes, pumps, and storage bins. Control stockpile inventory of materials. Inspect Equipment, Structures ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Plant Operator

Lithia Springs, GA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Plant Operation. Operate plant equipment to regulate flow of materials to and from conveyors, chutes, pumps, and storage bins. Control stockpile inventory of materials. Inspect Equipment, Structures ...

DeKalb County

Plant Operator, Lead

Decatur, GA · On-site

$25.13 - $40.46/hr

High school diploma or GED required; four years experience as a plant operator which included two years of experience as a Class II or higher plant operator in a water or wastewater treatment ...

DeKalb County

Plant Operator, Lead

Decatur, GA · On-site

$25.13 - $40.46/hr

High school diploma or GED required; four years experience as a plant operator which included two years of experience as a Class II or higher plant operator in a water or wastewater treatment ...

Heidelberg Materials

Plant Operator I

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$22 - $28.75/hr

Aggregates Plant Operator 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 ...

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$61

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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 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 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.

More about Power Plant Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, GA? For Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:
Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Junior Power Plant Operator

Junior Power Plant Operator

Pratt Industries

Conyers, GA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 hours ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

The Conyers GA campus operates the first of four planned clean energy plants. This state-of-the-art Bubbling Fluidized Bed Gasifier:

- Converts 780 tons of previously land filled materials - including residues from company paper-making operations - into renewable energy

- Generates 7 megawatts of electricity and 100% of the steam required to power manufacturing processes, which is 220,000 lbs of steam per hour

Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, All State, Pre Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.

The Clean Energy Division is currently seeking a Junior Operator.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsible for the safe operation of the Multifuel Bubbling Fluidized Bed Boiler and emissions control system

Responsible for the safe operation of 9 MW steam turbo-generator

Responsible for minor maintenance tasks within the plant

Responsible for testing within the plant

Ensure housekeeping standards are maintained or initiate corrective action as required

Maintain logs, records, and data sheets; prepare reports, trends, time sheets, material requisitions, work orders, and other administrative documents related to the business of power and steam production

Additional duties as assigned by management

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

4 year college degree or military preferred

Minimum of 7 years experience in power plant and control room operations

Experience with boiler water chemistry analysis

Solid fuel firing a plus

Heavy equipment experience a plus

REQUIRED SKILLS

Ability to operate valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plant equipment.

Ability to use basic hand tools, portable electric and pneumatic tools, basic rigging equipment such as winches, hoists, and slings; and implements such as lances, shovels, pry bars, etc.

Ability to understand and read mechanical and electrical drawings such as P&IDs, Single Line diagrams, schematics, and logics.

Ability to read, write and comprehend technical information.

Ability to observe hazards and avoid accidents by correctly anticipating the consequences of actions personally performed or performed by others.

Ability to perform all duties in a power plant environment which includes heat, stairs, ramps, uneven walking surfaces, noise, vibration, and dust.

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables

Superior time management skills including the ability to manage multiple issues concurrently

Excellent crisis manager who demonstrates that he/she has a high emotional control under adverse conditions and can lead personnel to a successful resolution

MUST BE WILLING TO WORK ROTATING SHIFTS (DuPont Schedule)

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