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Steam Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Operate steam turbine generator and auxiliary equipment. Perform routine cleaning/housekeeping duties. Required Qualifications Considerable experience as a Power Plant or Boiler Operator. Strong ...

BOILER PLANT OPERATOR

Quantico, VA · On-site +1

$36.49 - $42.63/hr

You will serve as "operator in charge" of the Central Heat Plant (i.e, the primary steam or hot water generating facility) including ancillary facilities, stand alone, and satellite boilers which may ...

Auxiliary Operator

Altavista, VA · On-site

$27.88 - $33.48/hr

Experience operating or maintaining plant equipment such as fuel handling, combustion, ash handling, compressed air, feedwater, steam turbine, and generator systems preferred; Mitsubishi turbine and ...

Experience operating or maintaining plant equipment such as fuel handling, combustion, ash handling, compressed air, feedwater, steam turbine, and generator systems preferred; Mitsubishi turbine and ...

Experience operating or maintaining plant equipment such as fuel handling, combustion, ash handling, compressed air, feedwater, steam turbine, and generator systems preferred; Mitsubishi turbine and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Steam Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$37.2K

How much do steam plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for steam plant operator in Virginia is $35,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,700.00 and $36,700.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Steam Plant Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Steam Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Steam Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Steam Plant Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Steam Plant Operator jobs in VA?

For Steam Plant Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Steam Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,043 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

NUCLEAR ELECTRICAL OPERATOR -STEAM PLANT MANUAL AUTHOR

Newport News, VA • On-site


Huntington Ingalls Industries
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 544 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$82K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Req ID: 48266
Team: E50 PROP AND REAC ENG PLNG YRD
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: No relocation assistance available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirements: Yes, 10%-25% of the time
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Salary Range: $82,000.00 to $104,000.00
The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range
Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
The Role
Provides technical support to engineers on a variety of technical tasks. Gathers, maintains, formats, compiles, and manipulates technical data, such as laboratory or material test results and engineering design changes. Produces engineering documentation, reports, drawings (flow charts, block diagrams, and schematics). Performs detailed mathematical calculations using established formulas; preliminary analyses of data where guidelines are provided in such areas as trajectory adequacy, model dimensional consistency; and quantitative judgments concerning technical data. Uses personal computer in performance of analyses and development of documentation/reports. May conduct tests and record data to assist with engineering evaluation or analysis.
This Engineering Technician 4 (Electrical) position is within the E50 Propulsion & Reactor Engineering Planning Yard. Steam Plant Manual (SPM) Group. Due to the nature of the work, A4W propulsion plant operating and maintenance experience is required. Equivalent experience will be considered on a case basis.
Engineering Technician 4 - A4W Nuclear Electrical Operator - Steam Plant Manual Author
Must Have
Associate's Degree and 6 years of relevant experience
One of the following may be used as equivalent to Associate's Degree to meet minimum qualifications:
  • NNS Apprentice School graduate
  • Navy Nuclear Power School (NNPS) graduate
  • High School/GED and 2 years of related Manufacturing, Shipbuilding, Trades, Military experience
  • High School/GED and 4 years of non-related Manufacturing, Shipbuilding, Trades, Military experience

Nice to Have
1. U.S. Navy Nuclear Training:
a. Completion of Naval Nuclear Power Pipeline (Nuclear Electrician Field 'A' School, Naval Nuclear Power School, and Naval Nuclear Prototype Training), and
b. 8 years of experience operating the propulsion plants aboard aircraft carriers, and
c. Senior in Rate Qualified
d. Note: Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor/Propulsions Plant Watch Officer qualification is desirable, but not required.
2. Exceptional organizational and written communication skills.
3. Confidential Security Clearance.
4. Ability to obtain and retain partial radiation worker qualification.
5. Ability to physically access a wide variety of work sites, including those aboard ships under various stages of construction or overhaul, including the use of vertical and inclined ladders, and may involve kneeling, stooping, standing, etc.
Responsibilities:
1. Research:
a. Investigate the descriptive and operational impact of modernization and repair alterations to the propulsion plants on Nimitz Class Aircraft Carriers, by:
i. Gathering/reviewing related technical documentation.
ii. Coordinating with engineering codes at NNS, NNSY, and PSNS.
iii. Performing shipchecks as necessary.
b. Evaluate the validity of in-coming Manual Change Requests (MCRs) to the CVN68 Class Steam Plant Manual (SPM), by:
i. Applying knowledge gained from propulsion plant operations.
ii. Reviewing the historical content of SPM documents/drawings.
iii. Performing/directing engineering evaluations/studies.
c. Review SPM chapters and operating instructions to identify opportunities for improvement.
2. Product Development:
a. MCR Technical Submittals - Apply knowledge of the SPM, research, and technical writing skills to generate MCR technical change packages:
i. To ensure safe and efficient propulsion plant operations.
ii. To provide a tool for Ship's Force training.
iii. Using established standards for style and format.
b. SPM Revisions - Work with drafting and interactive electronic technical manual (IETM) experts to develop SPM revisions. Assist in quality assurance checks of out-going SPM revisions.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.


Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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