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Power Plant Startup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Power Plant Engineer SpaceX is building and operating combined-cycle gas turbine power plants that ... Develop and refine operating procedures, startup/shutdown sequences, and abnormal operating ...

New

WI · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

POWER PLANT ENGINEER SpaceX is building and operating combined-cycle gas turbine power plants that ... Develop and refine operating procedures, startup/shutdown sequences, and abnormal operating ...

New

Plant Operations Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Experience with plant commissioning/startup is strongly preferred. * Familiarity with integrated SMR/CCGT sites or hybrid power plant operations is a plus. Licenses / Certifications: * NRC Senior ...

WI · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Power Plant Engineer SpaceX is building and operating combined-cycle gas turbine power plants that ... Develop and refine operating procedures, startup/shutdown sequences, and abnormal operating ...

New

... to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated ... plant startup * Participate in daily construction team meetings and oversee the quality of the ...

... to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated ... plant startup * Participate in daily construction team meetings and oversee the quality of the ...

Power Plant Supervisor Posting Start Date: 8/3/26 Job Location: United States Sugar Savannah ... Communicates down time, boiler trips, startup timelines and other significant production issues to ...

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Power Plant Startup information

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How much do power plant startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant startup in the United States is $35.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant startup?

A Power Plant Startup job involves commissioning, testing, and optimizing power generation systems before they become fully operational. Professionals in this role ensure that equipment functions correctly, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with various teams to achieve a smooth startup. They follow safety protocols, fine-tune system parameters, and document performance data. This position requires expertise in power systems, controls, and plant operations.

What does a power plant startup do?

During a power plant startup, your day will often begin with thorough system checks and safety briefings, followed by coordinated activities to bring various plant components online according to established protocols. You'll closely monitor equipment readings, perform routine inspections, and respond quickly to any irregularities or alarms that arise. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including engineers, operators, and safety personnel—is a key part of ensuring a smooth and safe startup. This work can be fast-paced and requires strong attention to detail; however, it also offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the successful delivery of reliable power to the grid.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a power plant startup?

To excel in a Power Plant Startup role, candidates typically need a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, deep knowledge of plant operations, and relevant industrial experience. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), safety management protocols, OSHA regulations, and certifications such as a Boiler Operator License are often required. Standout professionals possess excellent problem-solving skills, clear communication abilities, and adaptability for responding to real-time operational challenges. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant plant startups, minimizing downtime and supporting overall energy production goals.

More about Power Plant Startup jobs

What states have the most Power Plant Startup jobs?

States with the most job openings for Power Plant Startup jobs include:

Infographic showing various Power Plant Startup job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,624 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Mechanical Startup Lead II

4pconsultinginc

Ball Ground, GA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position: Mechanical Startup Lead II

Location: 12860 E Cherokee Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107
Duration:  6 Months

Client: Southern Company Services.


Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Startup Lead II to support generating plant startup and commissioning activities. This role requires strong technical knowledge of fossil power plant systems, startup sequencing, commissioning documentation, and safety compliance.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of related experience in engineering design, generating plant startup, and/or maintenance, or a 4-year degree in engineering or related curriculum.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and successful startup and commissioning of plant systems within schedule and budget requirements.


Key Responsibilities

Safety & Compliance

  • Abide by all safety rules and help maintain a culture focused on safety excellence.
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA and applicable environmental regulations.
  • Enforce and monitor adherence to LOTO procedures.
  • Ensure quality requirements of plans, specifications, and standards are met.

Startup & Commissioning Execution

  • Assist in planning proper sequence and scheduling of startup activities.
  • Perform project startup and commissioning activities as directed by the Site Startup Manager.
  • Develop and manage startup budgets and schedules.
  • Accurately document startup and commissioning results.
  • Develop punch lists and Startup Turnover Packages.
  • Support implementation of owner startup procedures.

Technical Oversight

  • Identify installation problems and assist in developing corrective solutions.
  • Ensure corrective actions are executed by contractors, craft personnel, or vendors.
  • Interpret and review P6 schedules.
  • Read and interpret drawings and operations manuals.
  • Support pressurized piping and vessel code compliance.

Collaboration & Leadership

  • Coordinate across plant staff, engineering, contractors, and vendors.
  • Manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
  • Plan and organize startup activities in a team-based environment.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement.

Required Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in:
    • Engineering design
    • Generating plant startup
    • Maintenance in fossil or thermal power plants
      OR
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline.
  • Knowledge of fossil power plant systems and major equipment.
  • Working knowledge of pressurized piping and vessel codes.
  • Ability to interpret Primavera P6 schedules.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.

Key Skills & Expertise

  • Power plant startup and commissioning
  • OSHA and environmental compliance
  • LOTO procedures
  • Punch list development
  • Startup turnover packages
  • Schedule and budget management
  • Reading engineering drawings and manuals
  • Multi-project coordination
  • Process improvement mindset

Work Environment

  • Plant-based role supporting startup and commissioning activities.
  • Requires strong field presence and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.