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Simple Cycle Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NRG Energy

Lead Plant Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

Monitor, operate, and maintain all equipment associated with natural gas simple cycle power plant operations, with specific expertise on Siemens V84.3A2 turbine T3000 DCS platforms. * Execute startup ...

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How much do simple cycle power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for simple cycle power plant 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.

What is a simple cycle power plant?

A Simple Cycle Power Plant job involves operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting gas turbine power plants that generate electricity through a straightforward combustion process. These roles typically include power plant operators, maintenance technicians, and engineers who ensure efficient and reliable plant performance. Employees in these positions monitor equipment, perform routine inspections, and respond to system alerts or malfunctions. They play a critical role in maximizing plant efficiency and minimizing downtime to support electricity generation.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in a simple cycle power plant?

A typical day at a Simple Cycle Power Plant involves monitoring plant equipment, conducting routine inspections, recording operational data, and performing necessary maintenance to ensure optimal performance. You'll collaborate closely with other operators, engineers, and maintenance technicians to respond quickly to any operational alarms or unexpected issues. Safety checks and adherence to strict operating procedures are a regular part of the job, as is troubleshooting equipment malfunctions to minimize downtime. The work environment is usually structured around rotating shifts, promoting teamwork and rapid response to changing plant demands.

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

To thrive working at a Simple Cycle Power Plant, you generally need strong mechanical and electrical proficiency, along with relevant technical training or a degree in engineering or power plant operations. Familiarity with control room systems, SCADA, turbine instrumentation, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective team communication are essential soft skills for this environment. These qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the power plant under varied operating conditions.

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Simple Cycle Power Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Simple Cycle Power Plant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer

CAM Integrated Solutions, LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer

Full Time Professional Houston, TX, US

17 days ago Requisition ID: 1239

Position Summary

The Power Plant Cycle Performance Engineer is responsible for maximizing the performance, efficiency, and operational flexibility of simple cycle and combined cycle power plants. This role applies advanced thermodynamic analysis, modeling, and data-driven optimization techniques to improve plant heat rate, reliability, emissions performance, and overall economic value.

Key Responsibilities

Cycle Performance Optimization

  • Lead the analysis and optimization of thermodynamic cycles for:
    • Combined cycle power plants
    • Simple cycle gas turbine plants
  • Identify opportunities to improve:
    • Heat rate and efficiency
    • Output (MW capacity)
    • Start-up times and cycling flexibility
    • Fuel utilization and operating costs
  • Develop and implement performance improvement strategies.

Advanced Modeling & Simulation

  • Build and maintain detailed thermodynamic models using tools such as:
    • GT PRO, Thermoflow, EBSILON, Aspen, or equivalent
  • Conduct sensitivity analyses and optimization studies.

Operational & Data Analytics

  • SCADA/DCS data
  • Identify performance gaps and degradation trends.
  • Develop predictive models and digital optimization tools where applicable.

Design & Retrofit Support

  • Provide technical guidance on design improvements and retrofit projects such as:
    • Turbine upgrades and modifications
    • HRSG enhancements
    • Cooling system optimization
    • Integration of energy storage or hybrid systems
  • Support feasibility studies, FEED, and detailed engineering phases.

Performance Testing & Validation

  • Lead and support performance testing activities in accordance with ASME PTC standards.
  • Validate model predictions against field test results.
  • Recommend corrective actions to address deviations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with:
    • Mechanical, Electrical, and I&C engineering teams
    • Plant operations and maintenance personnel
    • OEMs, key suppliers, and project execution partners
  • Provide technical support during commissioning, outages, and troubleshooting.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or related field
  • 7+ years of experience in power plant engineering, performance analysis, or cycle modeling.
  • Strong expertise in:
    • Thermodynamics and heat transfer
    • Gas turbine and steam cycle operation
    • Combined cycle integration

Preferred Qualifications

  • Deep experience with industry modeling tools (e.g., GT PRO, Thermoflow suite).
  • Knowledge of advanced optimization techniques (e.g., AI/ML-based optimization, digital twins).
  • Experience with flexible operation and grid-supportive technologies.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent.
  • Advanced analytical and modeling skills
  • Strong problem-solving and optimization mindset
  • Technical leadership
  • Effective communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Primarily office-based with occasional travel for collaboration with OEMs, site support, and field-testing activities.

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Lead Mechanical Engineer or Project Engineering Manager

This position offers a unique opportunity to help shape a newly established power generation business within a well-established engineering firm. This role will provide meaningful influence over business direction, support the establishment of growth strategies, and serve as a leadership position within the developing team. It will also create the opportunity to define workflows, procedures, and engineering guidelines for the new power generation engineering group while providing a strong platform for rapid career growth into broader leadership positions.

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