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Power Plant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

These facilities operate as a flexible dispatch combined cycle merchant plant and a fast start peaking plant supplying power to California and the Pacific Northwest, as well as steam to the adjacent ...

Utility Plant Operator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$40.03 - $61.37/hr

Our Central Power Station is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. Major assets that we operate, maintain, and repair include: • 10MW combined heat and power (CHP) plant ...

Our Central Power Station is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. Major assets that we operate, maintain, and repair include: 10MW combined heat and power (CHP) plant 2 ...

Plant Maintenance Tech 2-3 hours a week of plant maintenance. Includes watering, dusting, trimming and occasional repotting of plants. Potential for more hours in the future. Starting rate $20 an ...

Plant Mechanic

Canby, OR · On-site

$28/hr

Located in Clackamas, OR Salary: 28 Plant Mechanic - $28/hr Location: Clackamas Area, OR Pay: $28 ... Safely and efficiently use hand and power tools * Complete work orders and assigned maintenance ...

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Power Plant information

See Oregon salary details

$27

$41

$57

How much do power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant in Oregon is $41.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.35 and $48.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant?

A Power Plant job involves operating, maintaining, and overseeing equipment that generates electricity. Workers in this field ensure the plant runs efficiently, conduct routine inspections, and troubleshoot issues to prevent downtime. Positions can vary from plant operators and technicians to engineers and maintenance personnel. These roles require technical knowledge, adherence to safety protocols, and sometimes specialized certifications or training.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a power plant operator?

Power Plant Operators are responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment to generate and distribute electric power, performing routine inspections, and responding to alarms or operational anomalies. They carefully log operational data, conduct safety checks, and coordinate with maintenance teams to address equipment issues. Operators may also assist with periodic testing, equipment startups or shutdowns, and adhere strictly to regulatory and safety protocols. This hands-on, technical role involves both independent tasks and regular collaboration with engineers and technicians to maintain optimal plant performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the power plant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, often supported by a relevant technical degree or vocational training. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and industry certifications such as NERC or EPA qualifications are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help operators excel in dynamic and sometimes high-pressure environments. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable power generation at all times.

How can I work at a power plant?

To work at a power plant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant technical training or certifications such as a boiler operator license or electrical certification. Employers often require safety training and may prefer candidates with experience in mechanical, electrical, or industrial fields. Job roles include operators, maintenance technicians, and engineers, and some positions may require shift work or working in hazardous environments.

How much do power plant workers get paid?

Power plant workers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and specific roles, but the median annual wage is around $70,000. Skilled positions such as plant operators and technicians often earn higher wages, especially with certifications and experience in safety protocols and control systems.

Is it hard to get a job at a power plant?

Getting a job at a power plant can be competitive and often requires relevant technical skills, certifications, and experience in areas such as electrical, mechanical, or environmental systems. Entry-level positions may be easier to obtain with proper training, but higher-level roles typically demand specialized knowledge and safety training, such as OSHA certifications.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant jobs in Oregon?

For Power Plant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Plant jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Plant jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Power Plant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Power Plant job openings:

Infographic showing various Power Plant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,292 per year, or $42 per hour.

Power Plant Operator

Umatilla, OR • On-site


US Department of the Army
National Security • 10K+ employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Learn new skills


$69.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This position is located at McNary Dam, Umatilla, OR, a multi-purpose hydropower project, with missions that include operation/maintenance of the facility for flood control, hydroelectric power generation. Employees working at McNary and living in WA are exempt from OR state tax.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Power Plant Operator without more than normal supervision. You must have the ability to ability to perform common journey-level Power Plant Operator duties in a power plant. (Example: Ability to restore a 12 megawatt or larger turbine generator to service after major overhaul in a large power plant with my work checked by my supervisor or another journey-level Power Plant Operator.) You must be able to respond to system plant or disturbances under close supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • Physical Efforts: Eye and hand coordination is required to operate switches and controls. Job requires extensive walking, standing, and climbing vertical and inclined ladders and stairs. Is required to operate large valves, apply servolocks, lift deck hatches and other jobs requiring pulling or turning force. Lifts and carries equipment and supplies frequently up to, and occasionally over, 45 pounds. Work requires prolonged standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, pushing, and kneeling.
  • Working Conditions: Works on a rotating shift, inside, in well-lighted work area. Works outdoors for short periods with exposure to climate extremes. Occasionally works in proximity to high voltages and currents. Incumbent is often exposed to equipment and machinery noises and outside the control room employee will be subject to the discomfort of wearing safety equipment such as hard-hats, earplugs, and respirators. Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing, and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements.
Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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