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

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Dawson, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Chestnut, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Weldon, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Kenney, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

De Land, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Beason, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.

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

Power Plant Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$19

$43

$61

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Decatur, IL is $43.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.13 and $56.88 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

What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Decatur, IL 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 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,211 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Night Shift Plant Associate

Clinton, IL • On-site

Waste Management
See more jobs at Waste Managementexternal

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Stericycle is now part of WM. To learn more about WM's acquisition of Stericycle, CLICK HERE to read the press release.

Pay Rate: $22.00 per hour, plus $0.50 per hour for Night Shift Differential. Paid weekly.
Shift: 5:45 PM to 6:15 AM, Sun-Wed/Wun-Tue Rotation.
What is the value of a WM job? The value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. 
We Are Stable: Our WM team is home every day, and our team members perform essential and meaningful work.
We Are Committed to Growth: Annual Education Assistance Benefit available for team members.
We Are Investing in You: Amazing Medical, Dental & Vision, 401K with match, discounted stock options, dependent day care, and more!
Who are we? #WeAreWM

Ready to roll with us?  Click Apply to join the WM (formerly Waste Management) team today


I. Job Summary
The Plant Associate will ensure all waste is unloaded from vehicles, the vehicles are decontaminated, and waste is properly staged for scanning and processing. The individual will perform the duties in a safe and productive manner. 
II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Unload waste from incoming vehicles. Separates non-autoclavable waste to be incinerated.
  • Stage waste on conveyor system or properly stack waste for scanning in the Biotrack system.
  • Scan waste into the Biotrack system for proper recordkeeping purposes.
  • Load autoclave bins or incinerator hopper with waste for processing.
  • Place reusable containers on tub wash line for decontamination.
  • Operates tub wash unit ensuring the wash unit is operating properly. Removes clean tubs from wash unit, inspects tubs and stacks for loading onto assigned vehicle for reuse.
  • Operates tub wash sprayer for oversized reusable tubs ensuring the unit is operating properly. Inspect tubs and stacks for loading onto assigned vehicle for reuse.
  • Decontaminates vehicles cargo-carrying portion, reloads assigned reusable tubs and ensures cargo-carrying portion of vehicle does not have free liquid on the floor. Informs plant supervisor that the vehicle is ready to be moved from dock area.
  • Ensuring housekeeping issues, e.g., spills cleaned up, floor is dry, and debris not on floor, etc., are addressed immediately.
  • Other duties and responsibilities, as assigned.


III. Qualifications 

A. Required Qualifications  

  • 1 year of experience, preferably in plant environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and understand and follow health and safety directives and performance and conduct standards, policies and procedures that apply to the role and location.


B. Preferred Qualifications  

  • Valid Driver's License.

 
IV. Physical Requirements
Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Standing
  • Lifting
  • Pushing
  • Pulling
  • Reaching
  • Grasping
  • Talking
  • Repetitive Motions
  • Walking
  • Hearing

Field: This job operates in both inside garage, shop or gas plant conditions as well as outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat and humidity.
This role is designated as safety sensitive and will require the successful candidate to strictly comply with all safety rules and protocols. As part of the ongoing employment requirements, the successful candidate may be subject to drug and alcohol testing-including preemployment screening, postincident evaluations, reasonable suspicion checks, and random testing-in accordance with government regulations and company policies.
Pay: The expected base pay rate for this office/on-site position is $22.00 per hour, plus $0.50 per hour Night Shift Differential. This rate represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location.
V. Benefits 
At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability. As well as a Stock Purchase Plan, Company match on 401K, and more! Our employees also receive Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days. Please note that benefits may vary by site. 

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click Apply.

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of postconsumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gastoelectricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavyduty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States:  WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada:  WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons or service federal property. Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID or TSAapproved alternative.

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

Apply