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Power Plant Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... power lines, from plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

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Power Plant Trainee information

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$10

$31

$69

How much do power plant trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant trainee in Virginia is $31.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.30 and $41.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant trainee?

Power Plant Trainees are entry-level employees who receive on-the-job training to learn the operations, maintenance, and safety procedures of power plants. Their responsibilities typically include observing experienced staff, assisting with equipment monitoring, and learning how to operate machinery under supervision. The goal of a trainee program is to prepare individuals for more advanced roles within the plant by providing them with practical skills and knowledge about power generation processes, safety regulations, and troubleshooting techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power plant trainee?

To thrive as a Power Plant Trainee, you typically need a background in mechanical or electrical engineering, basic knowledge of power generation principles, and a high school diploma or relevant technical degree. Familiarity with control room systems, safety protocols, and maintenance tools is important, and some companies may require OSHA or other industry certifications. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe operations, quick adaptation to complex systems, and effective teamwork in a highly regulated environment.

What are some common challenges faced by power plant trainees during their initial training period?

Power Plant Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning complex technical systems, and managing shift work schedules. The role requires quick learning to understand the operation of various plant equipment and adherence to detailed operational procedures. Trainees may also find the pace of on-the-job learning demanding, as they must absorb both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills under the supervision of experienced operators. However, most plants provide structured training and mentorship to help new hires succeed.

What is the difference between Power Plant Trainee vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectPower Plant TraineePower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsTypically a diploma or degree in engineering or related field; training certificationsRelevant certifications; extensive on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, offices, and plant facilities during internshipOperational control rooms and plant facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level training programs in power plantsFull-time operational staff managing plant functions
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles and training programsUnderstanding operational responsibilities and career progression

In summary, a Power Plant Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience, often during training programs. In contrast, a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for managing plant operations. The trainee role prepares individuals for the operator position through hands-on training and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Power Plant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Power Plant Trainee jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Power Plant Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Power Plant Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,198 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

UGE Foreman

MasTec Inc

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Overview

Company Summary

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The UGE Foreman leads the crew to complete daily tasks related to the construction and maintenance of underground power lines, from plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of electricity. They read blueprints of projects and are responsible for production. This position oversees the Line team, ensures crew safety, and collaborates with personnel from other departments.


Responsibilities
  • Obtain all the necessary materials for the job, and ensure all permits and licenses are in place.
  • Oversee work related to each project and assume full responsibility for its quality and timeliness.
  • Compliance with proper safety standards, procedures, and work practices according to MasTec or the customer, whichever standard is higher.
  • Facilitate daily toolbox talks and weekly safety inspections.
  • Disseminates information and ensures understanding of safety briefings.
  • Coordinate and supervise daily tasks for crew members related to digging and placing product.
  • Perform switching procedures to isolate and insulate, splice, and terminate underground power lines following proper safety procedures.
  • Provide for connecting and disconnecting, installing and removal, moving and transferring of various electrical devices on customers facilities, i.e., transformers, transformer banks, regulators, switches, switching devices, capacitor banks, etc.
  • Properly phase and mark/tag underground equipment.
  • Drive, haul, and/or operate equipment to/from job sites to assist crews in completion of work.
  • Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade.
  • Call in utilities located at each project site.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment and general construction.
  • 2 years of supervisory experience.
  • Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required.

Preferred Requirements:

  • 6 or more years of experience, including extensive experience supervising and training skilled labor.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE). 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.  

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment and general construction.
  • 2 years of supervisory experience.
  • Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required.

Preferred Requirements:

  • 6 or more years of experience, including extensive experience supervising and training skilled labor.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE). 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.  

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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