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Power Plant Operator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Medxcel

Powerplant Operator III

Baltimore, MD · On-site

The Power Plant Operator III is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines, pumps ...

Medxcel

Powerplant Operator III

Baltimore, MD

The Power Plant Operator III is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines, pumps ...

W3Global Inc.

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

EthosEnergy

Power Plant Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

Prepare monthly plant activity, operating plan, and budget variance reports. * Communicate ... Strong understanding of power plant operations and O&M functions. * Knowledge of plant chemistry ...

Fairfax County

Plant Operator III

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Planning, assigning, and overseeing the work of Plant Operator Is and IIs during operations of the plant including monitoring the standby generator and power distribution centers. Providing daily ...

Koniag, Inc.

Plant Operator

Washington, VA · On-site

$40/hr

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

kgs

Plant Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

kgs

Plant Operator

Washington, DC

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

kgs

Plant Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

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All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Power Plant Operator information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$20

$46

$65

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Silver Spring, MD is $46.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.06 and $60.62 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 the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Power Plant Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:
Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,146 per year, or $46.2 per hour.
Powerplant Operator III

Powerplant Operator III

Medxcel

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Overview
Medxcel is here to lead the transformation of healthcare facilities management by incorporating a new approach to providing services. Created by healthcare, for healthcare, we have a dedicated focus on our people and customers, as well as providing tools, processes, support resources, data analytics and insource strategies that drive results.
The Power Plant Operator III is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines, pumps, heat exchangers, generators, motors, chillers, cooling towers, equipment for heating, ventilating, air conditioning, lighting and associated equipment in the facilities. This role serves as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on plant operations and ensures that the team and plant operates safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements. The Power Plant Operator III trains operators to monitor and record device data, inspect equipment and make minor repairs, perform preventative maintenance and take responsible charge watching over meters, gauges and other devices to ensure safe and efficient operation of plant equipment. The Power Plant Operator III may direct daily tasks of the power plant team or shift in accordance with the Facility Supervisor/Manager to maintain plant operations and address work orders.
This position is located at St. Agnes Hospital- Baltimore, MD.
Responsibilities
Power Plant Maintenance and Repair - 60%
  • Monitor power plant equipment and indicators to detect evidence of operating problems.
  • Adjust controls to generate specified electrical power or to regulate the flow of power between generating stations and substations.
  • Control power generating equipment, including boilers, turbines, generators, or reactors using control boards or semi-automatic equipment.
  • Regulate equipment operations and conditions, such as water levels, based on instrument data or from computers.
  • Make adjustmentsor minor repairs, such as tightening leaking gland and pipe joints.
  • Record and compile operational data by completing and maintaining forms, logs, or reports.
  • Receive outage calls and call in necessary personnel during power outages and emergencies.
  • Prepares equipment malfunction reports, makes inspections, and from observation, determines whether equipment is operating properly.
  • Take regulatory action, based on readings from charts, meters and gauges, at established intervals.
  • Start or stop generators, auxiliary pumping equipment, turbines, or other power plant equipment as necessary.
  • Inspect records or log book entries or communicate with plant personnel to assess equipment operating status.
  • Control or maintain auxiliary equipment, such as pumps, fans, compressors, condensers, feed water heaters, filters, or chlorinators, to supply water, fuel, lubricants, air, or auxiliary power.
  • Clean, lubricate, or maintain equipment, such as generators, turbines, pumps, or compressors, to prevent failure or deterioration.
  • Open and close valves and switches in sequence to start or shut down auxiliary units.

Leadership - 20%
  • Directs the assignment of work to team members to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.
  • May assist the supervisor/manager in scheduling shift coverage.
  • Teaches team members the daily operation, monitoring and maintenance of plant equipment.
  • Acts as SME on cross-functional teams for daily tasks and special projects.

Special Projects - 20%
  • Participates in meetings, workshops, training, and seminars, as assigned for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform job functions.
  • Assist and participate in special projects as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Requirements:
Must have one or more of the following:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Graduate of trade school.
  • Relevant license.

And one or more of the following:
  • 5 years' experience.
  • Other equivalent combination of relevant education or experience.

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