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

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Niantic, 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

Cornland, 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

Macon, 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.

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Bement, 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

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

Latham, 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

Bethany, 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

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

Maroa, 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

Hammond, 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 Jul 12, 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.

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 popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, IL? For Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% As Needed, 75% Full Time, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,211 per year, or $43.4 per hour.
Senior Reactor Operator

Senior Reactor Operator

Constellation Energy

Niantic, IL • On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Constellation Energy rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 75 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

  • During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 to $182,000.00 per year (depending on experience and past license status) including a 15% annual incentive bonus, an initial sign-on bonus, $10,000 bonus spread through training milestones, a comprehensive benefits package, and a 401k with employer matching on contributions.
  • After obtaining SRO license, Total compensation earnings eligibility from $191,000.00 per year, including a target 15% annual bonus, License Premium, as well as, extended hours pay at 1.5 times the base salary (expressed on hourly basis) involving mandated operation shift coverage. 

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be offered to those who meet the conditions in the Company&rsquos policy.

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Clinton Nuclear Power Sation in Clinton, IL.

Primary Purpose of Position

The primary purpose of this position is to train and prepare to perform the duties of an Operations Shift Supervisor who holds a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO)License. Upon completion of training the candidate will be fully licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to supervise the licensed activities of licensed reactor operators in the reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally.

Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which includes classroom training and examination, along with on-the-job training and evaluation.
  • Successfully complete all phases of training to obtain an SRO license in order to perform the duties of an Operations Shift Supervisor.
  • Perform other job assignments and duties as directed by management or pursuant to company policy, including but not limited to emergency response, departmental coverage, call outs, and support of outage activities in positions outside the department.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma/GED
  • Meet or exceed one of the following:
    • 1 year Reactor Operator license at a comparable facility or 1.5 years at a noncomparable facility. Comparable is PWR to PWR or BWR to BWR and noncomparable is PWR to BWR or BWR to PWR.
    • 1.5 years or more in a position equivalent to Reactor Operator (or Supervisor) at a military reactor (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.
    • Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator or Staff member, Supervisor or Manager in work control, operations, engineering, outage management, maintenance, radiation protection, chemistry, or accredited training at a comparable (BWR or PWR) facility. Managerial, staff engineer, or supervisor experience at a noncomparable plant may be credited on a 1.5:1.0 basis (i.e., over 2.25 years required for noncomparable facility), and 3 years required for a nontraditional degree.
    • Current or previous SRO Instructor certification and 4 years experience at a comparable facility or 6 years experience at a non-comparable facility.
  • Maintain minimum access or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

What Constellation Energy employees say

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