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Power Plant Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Otter Tail Corporation

Operator Trainee

Beulah, ND · On-site

$43.98/hr

OPERATOR TRAINEE We have an opening for full-time Operator Trainee at Coyote Station, a 427 MW coal ... An associate degree in power plant or process technology or equivalent work experience is preferred.

NRG

DOD Skillbridge Internship - Patrol to Power

Thompsons, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Plant Operator Trainee * I&C Apprentice Essential Duties/Responsibilities: * Recognizes safety ... Learn power plant layout and system operations. * Continually updates knowledge of plant systems ...

Arizona Public Service

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Summary APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is ... High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations ...

APS

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Summary APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is ... High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations ...

APS

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Summary APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is ... High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations ...

Arizona Public Service

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Summary APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is ... High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations ...

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Power Plant Trainee information

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$10

$32

$71

How much do power plant trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant trainee in the United States is $32.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $42.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Power Plant Trainee, and why are they important?

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 Power Plant Trainees?

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 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.

More about Power Plant Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Power Plant Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Power Plant Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant jobs? The most popular types of Power Plant jobs are:
What states have the most Power Plant Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Power Plant Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Trainee jobs are:
Power Plant Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Trainee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,040 per year, or $32.2 per hour.
Utility Plant Operator Trainee/I/II/III

Utility Plant Operator Trainee/I/II/III

Uni

Campus, IL

$24.90/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

If you are a current University of Northern Iowa employee and would like to apply for this position, login to UNI Works and type "Find Jobs" in the search bar to view and apply for open positions.

Full Consideration Date:

06/29/2026

Job Description:

Utility Plant Operator Trainee: Under direct supervision, receives work experience and related training instruction to develop the knowledge and skill necessary to perform at the journey level upon completion of the training program to operate power plant auxiliary systems and assist in all aspects of plant operations. Participates in training that is required to progress to eligibility for the Utility Plant Operator I classification.

Utility Plant Operator I: Under general supervision, is responsible for operation of power plant auxiliary systems and assisting Utility Plant Operator II personnel, and other employees, in all aspects of plant operations; as well as coal and yard operations and limited maintenance activities.

Utility Plant Operator II: Under general supervision, operate all plant auxiliary equipment and systems. Operate solid fuel boilers. Make rounds and record readings, throughout the plant, to monitor all plant equipment.

Utility Plant Operator III: Under general supervision, operates boilers, operates turbine driven generators, chilled water production equipment, and associated auxiliaries; and coordinates power plant equipment operations with Utility Plant Operator II and Utility Plant Operator I personnel.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

Utility Plant Operator Trainee: Ability to read, write, and follow instructions. Upon completion of the training program, must be able to meet the minimum eligibility requirements for the Utility Plant Operator I classification.

Utility Plant Operator I: Must have a high school diploma or GED; and two years of experience in an industrial plant, process plant or power plant, operating boilers, pumps, fans, conveyors or other similar equipment.

Utility Plant Operator II: Must have a high school diploma or GED, and three years experience in an industrial plant, process plant or power plant, operating boilers, pumps, fans, conveyors or other similar equipment including a minimum of one year experience in the operation of coal and/or gas/oil fired water tube boilers and related plant equipment including pumps, fans, conveyors and other similar equipment; and possession of a license similar to the National Institute for the Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers (NIULPE) or State of Minnesota Second Class Engineer license or ability to become licensed within 6 months.

Utility Plant Operator III: Must have a high school diploma or GED, and four years experience in an industrial plant, process plant or power plant, operating boilers, pumps, fans, conveyors or other similar equipment. A minimum of two years of the experience must be in the operation of coal and/or gas/oil fired water tube boilers, steam turbine generators and related plant equipment including pumps, fans, conveyors and other similar equipment; and possession of a license similar to the National Institute for the Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers (NIULPE) or State of Minnesota First Class-A Engineer license or ability to become licensed within 6 months.

Position Details:

Job Category: Merit

Service Schedule: Calendar Year

Shift: Second Shift

Work Schedule: Varied schedule, to be determined.

Pay Grade: Utility Plant Operator I: 11/6, Utility Plant Operator II: 13/6, Utility Plant Operator III: 15/6
Starting Hourly Wage: Utility Plant Operator Trainee: $24.90; Utility Plant Operator I: $27.17; Utility Plant Operator II: $29.67, Utility Plant Operator III: $32.38. This position would also receive an additional $1.25 shift differential.

Application Instructions:

All application materials received by June 29, 2026, will be given full consideration. To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. A resume and cover letter are not required for this position but can be attached when applying. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email careers-support@uni.edu or call 319-273-2422.


Iowa's cost of living is among the lowest in the nation and the Common Sense Institute ranks Iowa #1 for paycheck stretch. UNI enhances this advantage with an excellent benefits package for eligible non-temporary positions. Visit our Compensation Tools page to explore your estimated total compensation, compare Waterloo-Cedar Falls cost of living to other major cities or review the paycheck stretch ranking details. Learn more about the Cedar Valley at https://livethevalley.com/.


If you would like general assistance with the application process or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Human Resource Services at hrs-employment@uni.edu or call (319) 273-2422.


All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.


UNI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. The University encourages applications from persons of color, women, individuals living with disabilities, and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, or any other basis protected by federal and/or state law.


Campus Security & Crime Statistics, in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, information on crime statistics for recent years, Public Safety personnel and programs, building access, reporting crimes, safety suggestions, and policies, programs, and services regarding alcohol, drugs, and sexual abuse, is available in the UNI Annual Security and Fire Report. A paper copy is available from the Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614. Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614.


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