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Steam Plant Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Health

SUPV-ENGINEERING

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

... plant and engineering operations to director. * Schedules boiler operations and computes combustion efficiency; maintains and evaluates operating log books, including fuel consumed, steam produced ...

Covenant Health

SUPV-ENGINEERING

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

... plant and engineering operations to director. * Schedules boiler operations and computes combustion efficiency; maintains and evaluates operating log books, including fuel consumed, steam produced ...

Covenant Health

FACILITY SVC TECH SR

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... activities related to Boiler Plant Operations, Water Chemistry and Steam Production ... Individual must complete a Boiler Operator Certification course with a passing score and maintain ...

Covenant Health

FACILITY SVC TECH SR

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... activities related to Boiler Plant Operations, Water Chemistry and Steam Production ... Individual must complete a Boiler Operator Certification course with a passing score and maintain ...

Keurig Dr Pepper

Maintenance Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$37/hr

This role is aligned to the Coffee Operating Unit Location: 3109 Plant Water Road,Knoxville ... water, steam, process, and condensate systems. * Fabricate or replicate minor components for ...

TAMKO

Production Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

This position is responsible for operating and assisting in the paper mill processing facility ... the plant, and the quality of material produced during their shift. The starting hourly rate is ...

TAMKO

Production Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

This position is responsible for operating and assisting in the paper mill processing facility ... the plant, and the quality of material produced during their shift. The starting hourly rate is ...

SNC-Lavalin

Senior I&C Engineer Energy - Remote

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

... operating and maintaining nuclear power generation and fuel cycle assets. * We are a growing ... Ensures plant instrumentation complies with nuclear safety requirements, and health, safety and ...

Fresenius Medical Care

Automated Line Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

... plant including critical utilities such as WFI, distilled water, steam, compressed air, reverse ... Responsible for following current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and Standard Operating ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Midtown, TN

$86K - $103K/yr

... design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Powell, TN

$83K - $99K/yr

... design for steam generators, pumps, and valves, instrumentation and control for reactor and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

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All JobsSteam Plant Operator JobsSteam Plant Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Steam Plant Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$10.5K

$35.9K

How much do steam plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for steam plant operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $33,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,500.00 and $35,400.00 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.
More about Steam Plant Operator jobs

What job categories do people searching Steam Plant Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Steam Plant Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

Steam Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Steam Plant Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,792 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Steam Plant Operator (SR) - Facilities Services - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description


The Senior Steam Plant Operator is responsible for analyzing problems and taking appropriate actions to ensure continuous and reliable operation of equipment and systems. This person will monitor and inspect equipment, computer terminals, switches, valves, gauges, alarms, safety devices, and meters to detect leaks or malfunctions and to ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and safely. This person will observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating properly. This person will also monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels. Having the ability to light off boilers and other associated equipment to maintain safe operating conditions is required for this role.
Responsibilities
  • Observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating safely and properly.
  • Make adjustments when necessary to maintain boilers and all associated equipment.
  • Make skillful decisions based on knowledge and experience.
  • Perform diagnostics to maintain systems for continuous operations on campus.
  • Interact with students, faculty, staff, and the general public in a courteous, professional, and inclusive manner.
  • Must be able to light off boilers and take boilers off line safely according to manufacturer guidelines.
  • Start additional equipment when needed to ensure the plant is operating correctly.
  • Report job information to supervision including any repairs, issues, deficiencies or needed parts to correct a problem or potential issue of boiler systems.
  • Report any unsafe practices or conditions discovered in a timely manner.
  • Take readings on boilers, turbine, and associated equipment to maintain logs according to EPA guidelines.
  • Assist in the preparation of special maintenance events as assigned.
  • Responsible for the training of fellow staff on systems and boiler operation.
  • Study technical manuals and equipment information to improve knowledge and understanding of all the campus steam and boiler systems and associated equipment.
  • Take available classes and training online and from vendors to stay up to date on the latest maintenance and control strategies and technology.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Experience: Three (3) years of relevant experience
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
    • A good working knowledge of the complete operation of a steam plant and use of steam system.
    • Skills and ability to keep boilers and equipment running efficiently.
    • The ability to perform work under stress for long periods.
    • Knowledge of plant operation codes and safety codes.
  • Other Conditions:
    • Valid Driver's license
    • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Vocational or Technical training - Experience may substitute for training on a year per year basis.
  • 3-5 years job related experience
  • Ability to operate gas and oil fired boilers, feed water pumps, condensate pumps, turbine generator and complete knowledge of steam plant operations.

Work Location
  • University of Tennessee - Knoxville, TN Campus
  • This is an on-site position

Compensation and Benefits
  • UT market range: MR09
  • Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

About the Department
UT Facilities Services is responsible for the care and keeping of more than 300 facilities and utilities systems in and around Knoxville. As the University of Tennessee Knoxville's largest non-academic department, team members are responsible for facilities maintenance and repair, custodial needs, landscaping and lawncare, utility work, in-house and capital construction projects, facilities planning and design, environmental initiatives, pest control, campus event services, and facilities administration functions for both the flagship campus and the agricultural institute. The Facilities Services staff provides around-the-clock coverage to ensure students, staff, faculty, and fans have a consistent and positive experience every time they step foot on Rocky Top.
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

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