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Steam Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kraft Heinz

CIP Operator 3rd Shift

Cedar Rapids, IA

$24.79/hr

Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids 4601 C Street SW Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404 Plant Overview: 3-Shift ... Must work safely around steam and boiling product. * Must be able to handle multiple tasks at once ...

CF Industries Inc

Process Engineer

Sergeant Bluff, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

... plant upsets and generate solutions to resolve problems with process chemistry and equipment ... Experience required working for an operating company in the chemical manufacturing, refining, or ...

Trinity Health

Operating Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

... Steam Distribution, Pneumatic Controls and associated component support systems. They must also ... Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing plant equipment G. Acts in a professional manner ...

Trinityhealth

Operating Engineer

Mason City, IA

$67K - $91K/yr

... Steam Distribution, Pneumatic Controls and associated component support systems. They must also ... Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing plant equipment G. Acts in a professional manner ...

Trinity Health

Operating Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

... Steam Distribution, Pneumatic Controls and associated component support systems. They must also ... Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing plant equipment G. Acts in a professional manner ...

Kraft Heinz

Utilities Technician

Mason City, IA · On-site

$27.48 - $35.17/hr

The USMT is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining all plant stationary power equipment systems, including boiler steam generation, industrial refrigeration, compressed air, vacuum ...

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All JobsSteam Plant Operator JobsSteam Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa

Steam Plant Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10.3K

$35.2K

How much do steam plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for steam plant operator in Iowa is $33,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,900.00 and $34,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a steam plant operator?

As a steam plant operator, you observe, monitor, maintain, and operate various boilers and related equipment, including a computerized boiler control system. Other equipment you may be responsible for include boiler feed tanks, feed pumps, water softeners, steam traps, heat exchangers, motors, and controls. Many jobs require you to conduct water chemistry testing and adjust chemical treatment rates. You must also perform preventative and corrective maintenance on a regular basis to keep the machinery functioning properly. Other duties can include repairing steam piping, such as steam valves and condensate pumps, while documenting all maintenance work you complete. Additional responsibilities include keeping temperatures balanced and starting and stopping boilers and pumps when needed.

What does a steam plant operator do?

Steam plant operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining boilers and other equipment that generate steam for power, heating, or industrial purposes. Their duties include monitoring gauges and meters, adjusting controls to regulate steam pressure and temperature, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They also troubleshoot equipment issues, conduct inspections, and keep detailed operational records. Steam plant operators play a critical role in keeping facilities running efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a steam plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Steam Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, thermodynamics, and boiler operations, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, instrumentation, and safety protocols, as well as relevant certifications such as a boiler operator license, are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of steam-generating equipment essential for facility operations.

What are some common challenges faced by steam plant operators and how can they be addressed?

Steam Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent system pressures, troubleshooting mechanical or control system malfunctions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. These can be addressed through regular preventative maintenance, ongoing technical training, and clear communication with maintenance and engineering teams. Effective documentation and adherence to standard operating procedures also help operators manage unexpected issues efficiently, ensuring smooth plant operations and compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

What is the difference between Steam Plant Operator vs Boiler Operator?

AspectSteam Plant OperatorBoiler Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state licensing or certificationOften requires boiler operator license or certification
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains steam plants, power plants, or industrial facilitiesManages boilers in industrial, commercial, or power plant settings
Industry UsageCommon in power generation, manufacturing, and energy sectorsCommon in manufacturing, energy, and building management

Both roles involve operating and maintaining boilers and steam systems, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in the scope: Steam Plant Operators typically oversee entire steam or power plants, while Boiler Operators focus specifically on boiler systems within various facilities. Both positions are essential in industries that rely on steam and power generation, with overlapping skills and responsibilities.

Is being a steam plant operator worth it?

A steam plant operator manages and maintains boiler systems, ensuring safe and efficient operation. The job offers steady employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves shift work in industrial or power plant environments. Compensation and job stability can make it a worthwhile career for those interested in industrial operations.
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Steam Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Steam Plant Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,199 per year, or $16 per hour.

Mgr, Work Control

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


The Shift Manager directs the activities of operations and maintenance employees to achieve safe, reliable, efficient, environmentally compliant and cost-effective, electrical and/or steam generation.
Responsibilities
Manages daily operations/maintenance activities and personnel to achieve high productivity and quality work and ensure safe, reliable, environmentally compliant and efficient electrical and/or steam generation. Develops project plans, provides direction and coordinates project activities associated with plant operations and maintenance. Trains direct reports in operations and maintenance methods, safe practices and procedures and administers apprenticeship programs. Identifies, evaluates and implements improved work practices and processes and evaluates crew performance. Monitors and evaluates plant equipment and systems to ensure reliable plant operations. Administers and ensures compliance by employees of company policy, safety rules, collective bargaining agreement and government regulations. Performs supervisory activities, including employee safety, selection and development of employees, employee counseling and motivation and salary administration. Assists in the administration of the department budget and reporting the work performed within the department. Performs additional responsibilities as requested or assigned.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a related field or the equivalent through experience. (Typically six years of related, progressive work experience would be needed for candidates applying for this position who do not possess a bachelor's degree.) Six years of related experience, including one year in a senior technical/leadership role. Advanced leadership skills to direct the activities of operating and maintenance individuals/teams toward the accomplishment of established goals. Effective interpersonal skills and leadership abilities. Effective analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills. Project management skills; ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently. Effective oral and written communications skills, including presentation skills to transmit information accurately and understandably. Specialized knowledge of the operation and maintenance of an electric generating station. Capable of administering collective bargaining agreements and company policies.
About Us
MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.
About the Team
MidAmerican Energy Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

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