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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Rialto, CA (NOW HIRING)

NRG

Plant Manager

City Of Industry, CA

The Plant Manager assures that the plant is operated in compliance with applicable safety ... Minimum of 5-7 years of full-time supervisory experience within a power plant. * Must have a valid ...

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Power Plant Operator information

See Rialto, CA salary details

$20

$44

$63

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Rialto, CA is $44.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.14 and $58.80 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Rialto, CA?

The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Rialto, CA are:

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For Power Plant Operator jobs in Rialto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rialto, CA are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Rialto, CA with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:

Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Rialto, CA 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 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,262 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Utility Plant Operator II

San Manuel Casino

Highland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Under the direction of the Assistant Manager, Facilities, the Utility Plant Operator II, performs journeyman-level work related to the operation, installation, inspection, modification, remodeling and repair of boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, blowers and all ancillary equipment and property associated with all Central Plant Utility Operations. Collaborates, initiates, and supports opportunities with other functions by championing the goals and priorities of the Tribe in a manner that faithfully reflects and upholds the Tribe's vision, mission and values.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Oversees the operation of cooling towers, blowers, chillers, Cogen system, boilers, and other plant equipment.Ensuresguest comfort throughoperationof the building automation systems tomaintainbuilding climate controls. Communicateswork performed and/or updates andmaintainsdaily required log keeping. Participates in training programs to stay current on industry best practices and safety protocols.
2. Inspects and performs preventative maintenance to ensure clear milestones are set and followed, including mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and environmental management systems. Reviews and updates plant logs, develops preventive maintenance instructions, andassiststhe Assistant Manager in planning routine maintenance and shutdowns. Conductsrisk assessments of equipment failures, minimizing risk, andimplementsnew technologiesto improve equipment reliability and efficiency.Ensuresall maintenance activities are documented accurately and reportedin a timely mannertocomply withregulatory requirements.
3. Maintains clear andaccuratedocumentation of all operating data, inspections, testing, maintenance (corrective and/or preventative) performed andassistswith repairs, parts orders and communicating with leads and team leaders on any concerns. Updates equipment documentation,specificationsand drawings, as needed.Ensuresall maintenance activities are documented accurately and reportedin a timely mannertocomply withregulatory requirements.
4. Coordinates with HVAC and Electrical departments toassistinlocatingand troubleshooting issues in building systems. Partners with vendors and service providersregardingmaintenance and repair of equipment. Collaborates with contractors and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) specifications for new construction and retrofit/renovation projects according to building code requirements to createblueprints/drawings.
5. Responds to emergencysituations,that require quick thinking and decisive actionduring or after hours, to mitigate and/or resolve immediate plant operating concerns and/or safety issues/concerns. Ensures the safety of all plant personnel and prevents any potential damage to equipment or property.Strong communicationskills are essential incoordinating withemergency services and internal teams to effectively address the situation.
6. Assists with Central Plant Management to service all systems and related machinery to remain in compliance with all regulating bodies (OSHA, EPA) and minimize downtime in a safe and efficient manner.Coordinates with external vendors and contractors as needed for specialized repairs for maintenance tasks.
7. Performsotherdutiesasassignedtosupporttheecientoperationofthedepartment.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GEDrequired.

  • Minimum of five (5) years of facility maintenance experience to include progressive cogeneration operation, power plant, diesel generator, central chilled water plant, central hydraulic system and/or boilerplant,operation experiencerequired.

  • Trade school (HVAC, electrical) or equivalent required.

  • Related,relevant,and/ordirectexperiencemaybeconsideredinlieuofminimumeducational requirementsindicatedabove.

KNOWLEDGE,SKILLSAND ABILITIES (KSA)

  • High School Diploma or GED required.

  • Minimum of five (5) years of facility maintenance experience to include progressive cogeneration operation, power plant, diesel generator, central chilled water plant, central hydraulic system and/or boilerplant,operation experiencerequired.

  • Trade school (HVAC, electrical) or equivalent required.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS AND REGISTRATIONS

  • At the discretion of the San Manuel Tribal Gaming Commission, you maybe requiredto obtain andmaintaina gaming license.

  • Universal EPA Certificate preferred.

  • Authorized Driver: Role requires operation or driving of Tribe-owned vehicles or driving patron vehicles. A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record as determined by the insurance carrier is required.

PHYSICALREQUIREMENTS/WORKINGCONDITIONS-ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and working environment described here are representative of those that an employee encounters and must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Primaryworkenvironmentisinafacilitysetting.

  • Workmayrequiretraveltoattendmeetings,tradeshows,andconferences.

  • Incumbentsmayberequiredtoworkevening,weekendandholidayshifts.

  • Mustbeabletoworkinafast-paced,high-demandenvironment.

  • Strengthsufficienttoexertupto10poundsofforceoccasionallyand/oranegligibleamountof forcefrequentlyor constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects and/or move up to 40 pounds occasionally.

  • Sedentarywork:very littlesitting.Able tooperateacomputerandother

  • officeproductivitymachinery,suchasacalculator,copymachine,andcomputerprinter.

  • Physical activities that apply to the essential functions of the position are balancing, stooping, kneeling,crouching,reaching,pushing,pulling,lifting,grasping,talking,hearing,andrepetitivemotions.

  • Hearingsufficienttohearconversationallevelsinperson,viavideoconferenceandoverthe telephone.

  • Speechsufficienttomakeoneselfheardandunderstoodinperson,infrontofgroups,inmeetings,

  • viavideoconferenceandoverthetelephone.

  • Visual acuity that meets the requirements of the position: The worker is required to have close visualacuitytoperformanactivitysuchaspreparingandanalyzingdataandfigures; transcribing;viewingacomputerterminal;expansivereadingandvisualinspectionofemployees, visitors or facility.

  • Mobilitysufficienttosafelymoveinanofficeenvironment,walk,stoop,bendandkneel,andenter,exitandoperatea motor vehiclein the course oftravel to promotional events, meetings, conferences, tradeshowsand San Manuel properties.

  • Endurancesufficienttosit,walkandstandforextendedperiods,andmaintainefficiencythroughout the entire work shift and during extended work hours.

  • Theemployeemaybeexposedtofumesorairborneparticlesincludingsecondhandsmoke.

Reasonable accommodation will be made in compliance with all applicablelaw.

As one of the largest private employers in the Inland Empire, San Manuel deeply cares about the future, growth and well-being of its employees. Join our team today!

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