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Teen Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is seeking a Power Plant Operator to join our team. Operates and evaluates all power plant equipment for efficiency and safety. Adjusts gauges and dials, reads ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Kent, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Everett, Washington. As a Power ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Showing results 21-40

Teen Power Plant Operator information

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$20

$44

$63

How much do teen power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for teen power plant operator in the United States is $44.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a teen power plant operator do?

A Teen Power Plant Operator is typically a young individual, often participating in internships or educational programs, who assists with monitoring and maintaining the systems that generate and distribute electrical power. Their responsibilities may include observing equipment, recording data, and learning from experienced operators about safety procedures and plant operations. While they are not permitted to perform all tasks due to age restrictions and safety regulations, their role is to gain hands-on experience and knowledge about the power generation industry. This experience can be valuable for those considering a future career in energy or engineering fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a teen power plant operator?

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and, in some cases, specialized vocational training or an associate degree. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA software, and safety regulations is essential, and some positions may require specific certifications like the EPA’s Clean Air Act certification. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills are crucial for monitoring operations and responding to issues. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of power, which is critical for meeting energy demands and maintaining safety standards.

What are some of the key safety challenges a teen power plant operator might face, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Teen Power Plant Operators often work in environments where safety is paramount due to the presence of high-voltage equipment and complex machinery. One of the main challenges is staying vigilant about safety protocols and consistently using personal protective equipment. New operators typically receive comprehensive training and are supervised by experienced staff to ensure adherence to strict safety guidelines. Regular safety drills and ongoing education help reinforce safe work practices and build confidence in handling emergency situations.

What is the difference between Teen Power Plant Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectTeen Power Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often required
Work EnvironmentSupervised, educational setting or entry-level environmentIndustrial plant setting, shift work, safety protocols
Employer & Industry UsageEducational programs, internships, entry-level positionsUtilities, energy companies, industrial plants

Teen Power Plant Operators are typically students or entry-level workers gaining foundational knowledge, often in supervised environments. Power Plant Operators are experienced professionals managing plant operations in industrial settings. The roles differ mainly in experience, credentials, and work environment, but both are essential in the energy industry.

Are Teen Power Plant Operators in high demand?

Teen power plant operators are typically not in high demand due to age restrictions and the need for specialized training and certifications. The demand for power plant operators in general depends on the energy sector's growth and infrastructure needs, with opportunities more common for fully qualified adults. Entry-level positions for teens are rare in this field.

How to get hired as a teen power plant operator?

To get hired as a teen power plant operator, candidates typically need to be at least 16 or 18 years old, depending on local regulations, and may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include understanding of electrical systems, safety procedures, and possibly completing a training program or apprenticeship; some positions may also require certification or licensing. Gaining experience through internships or related entry-level roles can improve chances of employment in this field.
Infographic showing various Teen Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Power Plant Operator, Associate

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Power Plant Operator, Associate
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Power Plant Operator
Administrative Operations | Purdue University
Join the team that helps power one of the nation's leading universities. At Purdue, you'll find unrivaled pride, unlimited potential, and a collaborative community working together to support teaching, research, and innovation every day. As a Power Plant Operator, you'll play an essential role in the safe and reliable operation of the Wade Utility Plant, ensuring critical utilities are available across campus while developing valuable technical skills in a dynamic industrial environment.
In this hands-on role, you will operate and monitor power plant equipment including boilers, pumps, turbines, compressors, fans, water treatment systems, and computerized control systems. You'll analyze operational data, support plant efficiency and reliability, maintain water chemistry standards, and work alongside a skilled team dedicated to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Ideal candidates enjoy technical problem-solving, working in a team environment, and learning complex systems. Purdue offers the opportunity to build specialized expertise while contributing to a mission larger than yourself. This position requires flexibility to work various shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and callback assignments as part of a 24/7 operation.
Helping Build a Better World, Together. Discover a career where your work has a direct impact on the Purdue community every day.
This is a dual level position where the hiring manager will determine the level commensurate with the experience of the candidate.
About Us
Be a part of Administrative Operations-the organization that powers Purdue University by providing safe, reliable and transformative services. We support the university's day-to-day operations, as well as the strategic vision for the future.
Administrative Operations delivers a wide range of essential services through various positions, including custodians, construction project managers, electricians, firefighters, groundskeepers, plumbers and more. We are looking for hardworking, dedicated individuals as we continue to grow strong, service-focused teams across campus. Team members work in collaborative environments where their contributions directly impact the success and daily experience of students, faculty, staff and campus visitors.
Our employees benefit from the stability of year-round work, competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off and opportunities for ongoing training and professional growth.
Apply now to begin your career with Administration Operations!
What We're Looking For
Education and Experience Required:
As the SK1 Power Plant Operator you will need the following:
  • High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE) required
  • One (1) year of experience in the operation of some type of industrial equipment
    • The operation of fans, compressors, pumps, farm machinery, or other relevant types of rotating, stamping, or moving equipment
    • The equipment may be electric, steam, hydraulic or air driven
  • Must pass departmental Training Skills Inventory 1 in first 90 days of employment
  • Valid Driver's License required

As the SK2 Power Plant Operator will need the above and following:
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience in the operation of utility plant equipment required, such as high pressure boilers, steam turbine and diesel generators, centrifugal chillers, and auxiliaries such as turbines, pumps, fans, air compressors and water treatment systems

Skills Required:
  • Proven basic math skills, verbal and written communication skills required
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude required
  • Ability to take advanced departmental training to learn other positions in the power plant required
  • Must be able to lift and carry 25 lbs. to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 60 lbs. occasionally

Preferred:
  • Knowledge of:
    • water treatment systems, including chemical measuring/handling
    • either steam, electric, hydraulic or air powered equipment
  • Ability to perform basic computer operations required, knowledge and experience entering or retrieving word and or excel documents

Additional Information:
  • Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
  • Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days - Summary of Benefits for Administrative and Operational Support, Police, Fire and Skilled Trades - Human Resources - Purdue University

Career Stream
Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 1
  • Pay Band S055
  • Job Code #20003673

Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 2
  • Pay Band S060
  • Job Code #20003674

Career path maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/
Who We Are
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Purdue University is an EOE employer.

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