ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Power Plant Operator Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

City of Springfield, MO

Plant Operator II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$39K - $66K/yr

Qualifications and Requirements Plant Operator II Experience, Education, and Training * Two years of college or vo-tech training in wastewater technology, chemical or biological sciences or a related ...

CRH

Plant Operator/Maintenance

Springfield, MO · On-site

Plant Operator/Maintenance AMAT Springfield, Missouri, United States Job ID: 526845 APAC Central Inc., is a CRH company producing and providing crushed aggregate materials, sand, ready-mix concrete ...

CRH

Plant Operator/Maintenance

Springfield, MO

Plant Operator: Oversee the millings crushing plant, ensuring proper setup, operation, and maintenance for maximum efficiency. Manage plant automation and compliance with environmental regulations.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs in Springfield, MO

Power Plant Operator information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$18

$40

$57

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in Springfield, MO is $40.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.36 and $53.37 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 Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, MO? For Power Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:
Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,599 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Plant Operator II

City of Springfield (MO)

Springfield, MO

$39K - $66K/yr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

539th of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Description Are you interested in being part of an award winning team. The City of Springfield is committed to protecting the water quality of the Ozarks for many generations to come. The Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plants (SWTP) is an award winning wastewater treatment facility for the City of Springfield and is searching for qualified candidates to fill the position of Plant Operator II.

The Plant Operator II shall perform specialized skilled work in the operation and routine maintenance of sludge conditioning and thickening equipment, mixed media filtration, cryogenic oxygen generation and ozone generation facilities. For more information on the SWTP click here. **PLEASE NOTE WORK SCHEDULE BELOW: SWTP - 2:30AM - 2:30PM or 2:30PM - 2:30AM - 12-hour shifts (Rotation either Sunday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Saturday) THIS POSITION HAS THE OPTION TO UNDERFILL WITH A PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE.

Don't forget to review the amazing benefits - Click Here. Qualifications and Requirements Plant Operator II Experience, Education, and Training Two years of college or vo-tech training in wastewater technology, chemical or biological sciences or a related area; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; AND Two years experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area; Directly related work experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis, and double credit may be given for direct City of Springfield Plant Operator Trainee experience. Licensing/Certification At time of hire, must possess a valid Missouri Class "D" Wastewater Operator's Certificate or equivalent; Must obtain and maintain a Class "C" Wastewater Operator's Certificate within the probationary period; Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within the probationary period.

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such as plant or infrastructural maintenance; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; Possession of current Class D Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations Certificate may be substituted for experience/degree requirement. Licensing/Certification Obtain and maintain a Missouri class "D" wastewater treatment plant operations certificate within probationary period. Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within 120 days of employment.

Functions Plant Operator II For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary - $39,561.60 - $64,708.80 Annually Underfill - Plant Operator Trainee For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary -$38,064.00 - $56,430.40 Annually Other Requirements The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave.

Springfield, MO 65802. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace.

Pre-employment drug testing is required. All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.

Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.

What City Of Springfield (Missouri) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply