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Steam Plant Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Marine Corps

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 ...

JLL

Operating Engineer

Ashburn, VA

$71K - $96K/yr

Experience as a building operating engineer in a high-pressure steam plant and 1200-ton centrifugal chiller plant desired. * Working knowledge of building automation, system controls, fire ...

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All JobsSteam Plant Operator JobsSteam Plant Operator Jobs in Washington

Steam Plant Operator information

See Washington salary details

$12.5K

$42.5K

How much do steam plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for steam plant operator in Washington is $40,033.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $41,900.00 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,033 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Maryland First Grade Stationary Engineer - Water Tube Boilers

Jessup, MD

Maryland Environmental Service
Environmental Consulting Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

394th of 450 rated engineering

Paid breaks

Good training

Learn more about Maryland Environmental Serviceexternal

$77K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Current MES Employees who are interested in applying for this position must visit the Internal MES Careers Page by going to their Workday Dashboard, clicking on the Career icon and selecting Find Jobs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading team that provides environmental solutions to the public and private sectors throughout the State of Maryland.

Job Description:

Maryland Environmental Service has an opening for a Maryland First Grade Stationary Engineer - Water Tube Boilers at our Jessup Steam Plant facility located in Jessup, MD. This position is a plant operator who will be in charge of the steam plant and provide maintenance as needed during their shift.
Schedule: Full time - night shift, 9:00p to 5:00a M-F with possible rotating weekends, as needed.

Estimated Pay Range:

$77,226.24 - $106,186.08

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance with choice of medical plan and prescription, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance options, along with flexible spending accounts

  • 401K retirement savings program with generous agency match

  • Paid vacation, personal and sick leave

  • Eleven paid holidays per year

  • Tuition assistance

Minimum Requirements:

Graduation from a standard high school or GED plus three years of operating experience in steam plant operations.

Must have a valid driver's license with less than 5 points, and a First Grade State of Maryland Stationary Engineer's License.

This position will be open until filled.

Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully completing required pre-employment screens, to include full background check, drug & alcohol screening, and position appropriate physical.

Maryland Environmental Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. MES does not participate in programs that require sponsorship for work visas.

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