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Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hshs

Power Plant Operator

Green Bay, WI

$23.15 - $34.73/hr

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is seeking a Power Plant Operator to join our team. Operates and evaluates all power plant equipment for efficiency and safety. Adjusts gauges and dials, reads ...

Uasys

Power Plant Operator

Fayetteville, AR

The Power Plant Operator is responsible for performing Operations and Maintenance (O&M) functions at Utility Operations Utility Plants, Utility Plant Control Rooms, Utility Distribution locations ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Tukwila, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Renton, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Puyallup, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Auburn, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Auburn, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Kent, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

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Power Plant Operator information

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How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator in the United States is $44.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $58.65 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.
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Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Operator

Daughters of Charity Ministries

Emmitsburg, MD • On-site

$40/hr

Other

PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

St. Joseph House is home to Daughters of Charity in a beautiful, homelike setting in Emmitsburg, Maryland. St. Joseph House employees are part of the Daughters of Charity Ministries, Inc. that offer excellent staffing ratios, a comfortable work environment, competitive pay, great benefits, tuition reimbursement, and paid time off.
The Daughters of Charity in Emmitsburg Maryland is seeking a PRN (as needed) Power Plant Operator.
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position inspects, operates and maintains boilers, chillers, building management control systems, and all related equipment. Conducts building tours, records water temperatures, water and gas meter readings. Performs all types of maintenance related services for St. Joseph's House. Duties may include work of HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, painting, and electrical and/or mechanical.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Operates, inspects and maintains boilers and related equipment on-site to ensure they operate as designed.
  • Performs chemical testing and treatment of boilers and chillers. Assists plant manager in required shutdowns necessary for county and state inspections. Cooperates with inspectors throughout inspection process.
  • Performs limited preventive maintenance on boilers, air handler units, air compressors, dryers, centrifugal fans, cooling towers, valves and pumps.
  • Performs limited maintenance related services in any of the following fields: plumbing, electrical, painting and/or mechanical as directed by Manager.
  • Maintains accurate records and completes appropriate paperwork associated with assigned tasks.
  • Submits documentation to Manager in a timely manner.
  • Maintains a clean, safe working area. Operates equipment and DCM vehicles safely and responsibly. Inspects, repairs, cleans, lubricates, and stores tools and equipment as directed by the Manager. Reports any faulty or broken equipment to the Manager upon discovery. Reports, incidents/accidents to the Manager immediately.
  • Complies with applicable federal, state and local regulations pertaining to the operation of mechanical equipment and boilers and follows OSHA guidelines for the use of protective equipment.
  • Assists Manager in training new employees.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Makes good use of time. Is prompt to respond to assigned tasks. Completes tasks neatly and accurately with minimal supervision. Exhibits pride in quality of work. Demonstrates dependability in attendance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Physical demands require the ability to lift up to 75 pounds and to stand, climb, bend, and stoop for long periods of time.
  • Ability to walk, stand, climb, reach, stoop and/or kneel for long periods of time.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • This position requires a High School Diploma/GED. Stationary Engineer License Grade 1 or 2 preferred. Journeyman HVAC or plumber/gas fitter license preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Extensive background in electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and HVAC. Minimum of five years of experience in maintaining boilers and related power plant equipment. Must be flexible to work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays and able to work under emergency conditions at times.

Hourly Rate is $40.00
Daughters of Charity Ministries, Inc. may obtain "consumer reports" about you from a consumer reporting agency for employment purposes. A "consumer" report is a background screening report that may contain information regarding your criminal history, sex offender registry status, credit history, employment history, education verification, driving history, professional licenses, and other information about you. It may bear upon your character, general reputation, personal characteristics, and/or mode of living.

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