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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 ...

TAMKO

Production Technician

Knoxville, TN

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rockford, TN

$89K - $107K/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

Norris, TN

$85K - $102K/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

Louisville, TN

$90K - $108K/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

Alcoa, TN

$85K - $102K/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

Knoxville, TN

$94K - $112K/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

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 ...

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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 14, 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 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 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 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 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.

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.
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:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Steam Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Steam Plant Operator job openings:

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 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,792 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

SUPV-ENGINEERING

Covenant Health

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

 

Plant Engineering Supervisor

Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift

With more than 30 specialties from Cardiology and Neurosurgery to Orthopedics and Vascular care, Methodist Medical Center was one of the first hospitals in East Tennessee to offer cutting-edge treatments and technologies that benefit people with life-threatening aneurysms, severely damaged knee, hip and shoulder joints, sudden heart failure, and non-healing wounds.

  • 283 licensed beds
  • 25 ICU beds
  • 12 intermediate care beds
  • 38 emergency suites
  • 2 cath labs
  • 8 LDRP suites
  • Over 250 active and courtesy physicians
  • Over 800 employees

Position Summary:

Assists the director of engineering in scheduling, supervising and directing the work activities of employees engaged in the maintenance of building and utilities.

Recruiter: Rachel Dudek-Fleming || apply@covhlth.com


  • Manages repairs (mechanical and non-mechanical) to machines, equipment, masonry work, plumbing, heating, batteries, water treatment, plastering and sheet metal work.
  • Supervises other related maintenance duties.
  • Assists director in directing, performing and implementing in-house construction, assigning and assisting supervised personnel in specific jobs, and spot-checks work to ensure workmanship meets standards.
  • Conducts employee performance appraisals, trains new employees in proper work methods and oversee employees' work performance to ensure hospital safety rules and regulations are being observed.
  • Recommends improvements for physical plant and engineering operations to director.
  • Schedules boiler operations and computes combustion efficiency; maintains and evaluates operating log books, including fuel consumed, steam produced and water treatment program.
  • Assists in training and instructing assigned department personnel.
  • Maintains supplies inventory and orders repair materials as necessary.
  • Monitors the alarm panels and advises the director of engineering of any problems or malfunctions that need special attention.
  • Monitors and maintains the proper levels of medical gases, fuels and operating supplies.
  • Must be able to administer the labor contract.
  • Remains mentally alert and maintains concentration with attention to detail for prolonged periods, at times under stress. Maintains adaptability, flexibility, initiative, persistence, and efficiency of time management and action.
  • Does not pose a direct threat to health or safety of self or others. Provides safe, efficient, competent care to population assigned. Meets MMC Environment of Care Standards.
  • Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education:          

A high school diploma or its equivalent is required.

Minimum Experience:         

Four (4) years of progressive experience in maintenance work are required. Prior management training and/or supervisor experience is required.

 

Licensure Requirements:    

None is required.

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