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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Heidelberg Materials

Plant Operator

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$35.69/hr

Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance to keep the plant running smoothly * Identify and report operating issues promptly to minimize downtime * Follow safety, environmental, and ...

Heidelbergmaterials

Plant Operator

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$35.69/hr

Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance to keep the plant running smoothly * Identify and report operating issues promptly to minimize downtime * Follow safety, environmental, and ...

Express Employment

Plant Mechanic

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$28/hr

The Plant Mechanic is responsible for keeping plant and recycling equipment operating safely and ... Safely and efficiently use hand and power tools * Complete work orders and assigned maintenance ...

Clarios

Machine Operator

Canby, OR · On-site

$24/hr

As a Fully Integrated Plant (FIP), it manufactures high-quality batteries for automotive and ... Discover your potential at Clarios-where your power meets endless possibilities. Veterans/Military ...

CPS Technology Holdings LLC

Machine Operator

Canby, OR · On-site

$24/hr

As a Fully Integrated Plant (FIP), it manufactures high-quality batteries for automotive and ... Discover your potential at Clarios-where your power meets endless possibilities. Veterans/Military ...

Balchem

Production Operator

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Clean up and maintenance of plant, plant grounds and equipment. * Document all required data for ... Must have or be able to obtain forklift operators permit. * Must have strong work ethic; be detail ...

Balchem

Production Operator

Vancouver, WA

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Clean up and maintenance of plant, plant grounds and equipment. * Document all required data for ... Must have or be able to obtain forklift operators permit. * Must have strong work ethic; be detail ...

Airliquidehr

Production Operator I

Brush Prairie, WA · On-site

$22/hr

R10098289 Production Operator I (Open) Location: Brush Prairie, WA - Filling industrial How will ... Stages cylinders in designated areas of production plant for filling. These areas will be ...

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All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Power Plant Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$21

$47

$67

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Portland, OR is $47.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.88 and $62.21 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 are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR?

For Power Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,631 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Plant Operator

Heidelberg Materials

Battle Ground, WA • On-site

$35.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Heidelberg Materials rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

425th of 546 rated manufacturers

Job description

Line of Business: Aggregates
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. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Operate plant systems and mobile equipment to support safe, efficient production
  • Monitor material flow, equipment performance, and quality standards throughout operations
  • Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance to keep the plant running smoothly
  • Identify and report operating issues promptly to minimize downtime
  • Follow safety, environmental, and operational procedures while working with the site team

What Are We Looking For
  • Demonstrated capability to safely operate industrial or processing equipment
  • Plant mechanic experience, mechanical aptitude, or a maintenance-related background in an industrial, aggregates, mining, manufacturing, or heavy equipment environment
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems, equipment troubleshooting, inspections, and preventive maintenance practices
  • Strong focus on safety, quality, and attention to detail
  • Ability to follow instructions, read operating data, mechanical drawings, or maintenance documentation, and communicate clearly
  • Problem solving approach to adjusting processes, diagnosing equipment issues, and resolving operational challenges
  • Dependable work habits and flexibility to meet production demands

Conditions of Employment
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check
  • Some positions require FMCSA regulated ongoing drug and alcohol testing
  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to apply. Verification of age will be required as a condition of employment.

Work Environment
  • Role operates primarily in environments where the conditions include moving mechanical equipment, inclement weather, heat, cold, humidity, and elevated noise level

What We Offer
  • $35.69 to $35.69 per hour
  • Benefits through the Union for Medical, Dental, Vision and Pension
  • Union paid vacation, sick leave and holidays

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

What Heidelberg Materials employees say

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