ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vistra Energy

Power Plant Operator

Milford, CT · On-site

All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this ...

Luminant

Power Plant Operator

Milford, CT · On-site

All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this ...

Sprung Services, Inc.

Be Seen First

Power Plant Operator

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Power Plant Operator Wage: $38-$42/hour (Includes 8 hours of built-in overtime) Shift: Rotating - 7 days of 12-hour day shifts, followed by 7 days off, then 7 days of 12-hour night shifts, followed ...

St Anthony Hospital

Power Plant Operator

Lakewood, CO

$27.28 - $43.06/hr

As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by being responsible for operating ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Half Moon Bay, CA

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Half Moon Bay, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Pittsburg, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Rahr Malting Co

Power Plant Operator

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Koda Energy/RahrBSG is looking for a Power Plant Operator to join out team in Shakopee, Minnesota. The Plant Operator is a shift lead position that is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Half Moon Bay, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Half Moon Bay, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Pittsburg, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Indeck Energy Services

Power Plant Operator

Oswego, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Indeck Energy Services is looking for an individual with combined cycle power plant experience to ... Since 1985, Indeck Energy has developed, financed, managed the construction, owned and operated ...

TXU Energy

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPower Plant Operator Jobs

Power Plant Operator information

See salary details

$20

$44

$63

How much do power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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.

Is being a Power Plant Operator worth it?

Power Plant Operators manage and control the systems that generate electricity, requiring technical skills and often certifications. The job offers stable employment with competitive wages, but it involves shift work and safety risks due to high-voltage equipment and hazardous environments.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Power plant operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their salaries are usually lower, often ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2000 daily include specialized roles such as certain surgeons, corporate executives, or highly experienced consultants, but these are not related to power plant operations. Achieving such high daily earnings generally requires advanced skills, certifications, and significant experience in specialized fields.

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 the equipment that generates electricity, ensuring safe and efficient operation of turbines, generators, and other machinery. They perform routine inspections, respond to alarms, and maintain records, often working in shifts and requiring technical skills and certifications. Their role is essential for maintaining continuous power supply 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.

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 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 cities are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Power Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs? The top employers for Power Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Power Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Power Plant Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator jobs? For Power Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Operator

Vistra Energy

Milford, CT • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate, monitor, and control power plant equipment and systems to support safe, reliable, and efficient generation.

  • Perform routine rounds, inspections, and equipment checks to identify abnormal conditions and ensure proper system performance.

  • Start up, shut down, and adjust plant equipment in accordance with operating procedures, safety requirements, and dispatch instructions.

Vistra rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

Vistra Corp. is our corporate company and Luminant is our generation brand. This position is located at our Milford Power plant in Milford, CT.
We offer amazing benefits that start on day one, a generous AIP bonus plan, 401(k) with $ for $ company match up to 6% (100% immediate vesting on employer contributions), generous PTO, and a highly competitive base salary. We also believe in promoting from within and provide an extremely generous yearly allowance of up to $10,000 to pursue your credentials or degree.
Work in an environment where your efforts will be appreciated and your ideas encouraged! Every member of our team works hard. We support each other through trust, professional growth, and a can-do attitude.
This position is responsible for performing operations functions, preventive and corrective maintenance as applicable to job function to ensure proper functioning of plant equipment; will work under the direction of site management. This position is responsible for the proper function and maintenance of equipment at a Gas Plant for the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation on a 12-Hour rotating shift schedule.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities:

  • Operate, monitor, and control power plant equipment and systems to support safe, reliable, and efficient generation.
  • Perform routine rounds, inspections, and equipment checks to identify abnormal conditions and ensure proper system performance.
  • Start up, shut down, and adjust plant equipment in accordance with operating procedures, safety requirements, and dispatch instructions.
  • Monitor plant controls, alarms, gauges, meters, and process data to maintain equipment within established operating limits.
  • Respond promptly to equipment malfunctions, alarms, and operational upsets by taking appropriate corrective actions.
  • Support lockout/tagout, clearance, and switching activities in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain accurate operating logs, shift reports, equipment readings, and other required documentation.
  • Communicate effectively with control room personnel, maintenance teams, management, and other departments during normal and emergency operations.
  • Assist with troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, testing, and outage activities as needed to support plant reliability.
  • Follow all Vistra safety, environmental, compliance, and operational standards while promoting a strong safety-first culture.
**Level of position will be determined by applicable skills/experience.

Education, Experience, and Skill Requirements:

  • 4 -6 years related experience
  • Minimum of High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Candidates are expected to successfully progress toward a Control Room Operator development path
  • Demonstrate computer based skills
  • Demonstrate effective oral & verbal communications skills
  • Independent knowledge of troubleshooting
  • All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this position. POSS / MASS exams are administered on an as-needed basis and all communication concerning the testing is sent to the candidate's email address provided during the application process.

Job Family

Plant Operations

Company

Luminant Power LLC

Locations

Milford, ConnecticutConnecticut
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.

What Vistra employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply