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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Medxcel

Powerplant Operator II Licensed

Racine, WI · On-site

Operates, controls, and safely shuts down primary and auxiliary power plant systems, including low ... Powerplant Operator, Boiler Operator, or Stationary Engineer License as required by local ...

Medxcel

Powerplant Operator II Licensed

Racine, WI · On-site

Operates, controls, and safely shuts down primary and auxiliary power plant systems, including low ... Powerplant Operator, Boiler Operator, or Stationary Engineer License as required by local ...

Molson Coors

Refrigeration Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$36.62/hr

Maintains current 2nd Class licensing, with the National Institute of The Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers -OR- American Society of Power Engineers, Power Plant Operating Engineer 2nd Class, to ...

Molson Coors

Refrigeration Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$36.62/hr

Maintains current 2nd Class licensing, with the National Institute of The Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers -OR- American Society of Power Engineers, Power Plant Operating Engineer 2nd Class, to ...

Leinenkugel's

Refrigeration Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$36.62/hr

Maintains current 2nd Class licensing, with the National Institute of The Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers -OR- American Society of Power Engineers, Power Plant Operating Engineer 2nd Class, to ...

AHS Vista LLC

Maintenance Engineer - Full Time

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Maintain required operating logs, records and meter readings. * Maintain the safety and cleanliness ... Working knowledge of power plant equipment, systems and components, heating, ventilating, and air ...

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All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Racine, WI

Power Plant Operator information

See Racine, WI salary details

$18

$41

$59

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Racine, WI is $41.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.17 and $55.00 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
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What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:
Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Medical Waste/Sharps Lead Plant Operator - 2nd Shift (6141)

Medical Waste/Sharps Lead Plant Operator - 2nd Shift (6141)

Daniels Health

Sturtevant, WI • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Be an early applicant

Daniels Health rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We are looking to hire a Lead Plant Operator for our Daniels’ medical waste treatment facility in Sturtevant. A Lead Plant Operator has a widely varying role, from checking in containers, double checking paperwork, moving/unloading specific waste containers, and operating a forklift to load an autoclave. The ideal candidate is an individual who likes variety in their work and can think through practical problems. 
 
1340 Grandview Pkwy,
Sturtevant, WI 53177
 
What will your job involve?
  • Supervises all production activities ensuring their successful completion
  • Loads and unloads trucks and trailers on site to ensure all transports are prepared in a timely manner for our next load
  • Prepares and packs customer orders for transport and moving trucks
  • Manages training and assists employees and new hires
  • Enforces a high standard of finish across all products with outstanding attention to detail
  • Adheres to budgets, time schedules and deadlines 
  • Oversees and enforces OSHA requirements
  • Engages in root cause analysis for issues detrimentally affecting production
  • Manages the cleanliness of production area and facilities
  • Leads and motivates staff
  • Manages the allocation of resources for manufacture
  • Pushes continuous improvement in workplace safety, production efficiency, product cost & customer satisfaction
  • Promotes & maintains a clean workplace that is 'audit' ready at any given time
  • Supports Plant Supervisor with day to day operations and additional duties 
What are we looking for?
  • Can-do attitude – someone who is committed to the schedule and success of their team
  • Interest in and aptitude for mechanical work
  • 1 + years of previous lead experience is preferred
  • Previous experience in a labor-intensive role
  • Excellent organization and problem solving skills
  • Ability to manage a wide variety of activities at the same time
  • Ability to plan, analyze and challenge team
  • Able to work cross functionally and collaboratively with many stakeholders
  • Solid understanding of all people related processes and procedures
  • Good understanding of customer deliverables and the impact of failure/cost of poor quality
Why work for us?
  • Job stability – as an essential service to healthcare we are non-seasonal and recession proof.
  • Opportunities for overtime – we always need extra hands on deck so overtime opportunities are plentiful
  • Consistent work hours – This position is Monday to Friday (2nd shift - 3pm to close)
  • Benefits – Full time roles are provided benefits, sick leave and vacation leave from day one!
  • Permanent position – This is a Full-time permanent role of 40 hours per week
  • Competitive salary – This position is offering $25 per hour!
Who are we?
We are a healthcare service company providing safety systems and medical waste collection for hospitals, medical centers, surgical centers, nursing homes and an array of customers within the healthcare setting. Our focus is delivering quality and safety-focused medical waste management services that reduce needlestick injuries, positively impact infection control and reduce environmental burden. As a service to our customers we dispose and treat medical waste on site at our treatment facilities across the U.S.


Daniels Health & Sharpsmart is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Daniels Health & Sharpsmart prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Daniels Health & Sharpsmart  conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

Daniels Health conducts background checks and drug testing as part of the post‑offer hiring process.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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