ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trainee Power Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

Power PlantTrainee I

Selma, AL · On-site

$40.90/hr

DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce This is an entry level position to the Power Plant Trainee I with a Target Position to the either the Journeyman Mechanic/Electrician or Shift Operator.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTrainee Power Engineer Jobs

Trainee Power Engineer information

See salary details

$30.5K

$68.6K

$115.5K

How much do trainee power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee power engineer in the United States is $68,617.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee Power Engineer vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectTrainee Power EngineerPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or degree in electrical, mechanical, or power engineering; may need certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training or certification often required
Work EnvironmentTraining environment within power plants or engineering firms, learning technical skillsOperational environment within power plants, monitoring and controlling equipment
Job RoleLearning and assisting in power plant operations, maintenance, and troubleshootingOperating and controlling power plant machinery and systems during shifts

The main difference is that a Trainee Power Engineer is in a learning phase, focusing on gaining technical knowledge and skills, while a Power Plant Operator actively manages plant operations. Trainee roles are often entry-level, whereas Power Plant Operators are experienced professionals responsible for daily plant functions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and working in high-demand industries or senior management levels.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Trainee power engineers typically earn lower salaries during training and early career stages, with annual pay often ranging from $50,000 to $80,000. Reaching a $500,000 annual salary generally requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, specialized skills, and senior or executive roles in the electrical engineering field.

Is there a demand for power engineers?

Power engineers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for reliable energy infrastructure, maintenance, and system upgrades. They often work in power plants, utilities, and industrial facilities, with demand driven by technological advancements and the transition to renewable energy sources. Certifications and technical skills can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Power Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Power Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, mathematics, and problem-solving, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree or diploma. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and power system simulation tools, along with knowledge of safety regulations and standards, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable design and operation of power systems in a rapidly evolving energy sector.

What types of projects and hands-on experiences can a Trainee Power Engineer expect during their training period?

As a Trainee Power Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects such as assisting with the design, testing, and maintenance of power systems, substations, and electrical networks. Typically, you will work under the supervision of senior engineers and participate in site visits, data analysis, and troubleshooting activities. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including civil and mechanical engineers, is common, providing a well-rounded understanding of real-world power engineering challenges. These hands-on experiences are designed to build your technical skills and prepare you for greater responsibilities as you progress in your career.

What does a Trainee Power Engineer do?

A Trainee Power Engineer assists in the design, operation, and maintenance of electrical power systems, such as generation plants, transmission lines, and distribution networks. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, learning to analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety standards are met. Their responsibilities may include conducting site inspections, preparing technical reports, and supporting project implementation. Over time, trainees gain hands-on experience and knowledge needed to become fully qualified power engineers.
What cities are hiring for Trainee Power Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Power Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Power Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Power Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Power Engineer jobs include:
Trainee Power Engineer jobs near you
Power PlantTrainee I

Power PlantTrainee I

Careers Fields -- Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Buford, GA • On-site

$40.90/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will NOT be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants should review the "How to Apply" section of this flyer for more information on how to be considered. This flyer will be used as positions become available. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer.Qualifications:DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce
This is an entry level position to the Power Plant Trainee I with a Target Position to the either the Journeyman Mechanic/Electrician or Shift Operator. During tenure in the Hydropower Training Program, promotions are dependent upon successful performance, completion of required training and passing grades of satisfactory or higher on each part of the phase evaluation.
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.

Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Aptitude and Interest for Learning Trade Theory and Practice along with the Ability to do the work of a Power Plant Trainee I ~ Ability to work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Physical Effort

  • The incumbent frequently handles objects weighing 20 kilograms (45 pounds) and lifting and operating heavy and awkward hand tools. Many tasks require significant brute force. The incumbent is required to push, pull, reach, walk, stand, crawl, kneel, bend, and work in cramped positions over and under machinery of all types for sustained periods of time.

Working Conditions

  • Work is primarily performed inside the power plant, outlet works, intake structures, and spillway structure where constant noise and vibration of generating equipment is present. Hazards include moving machinery, working on preheated metals, danger of injury from burns, cuts, dust, welding fumes, and flying particles of metal when performing chipping, grinding, and welding. There may be occasional exposure to electrical shock hazards. Often works in cramped quarters for extended periods of time. Subject to falls from scaffolds and ladders, hazards of paring cables or slings and overhead traveling cranes and exposure to working in cold damp areas. Appropriate protective clothing and/or equipment is provided to minimize or eliminate hazardous conditions and its use is mandatory.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER
Army Corps of Engineers logo

About Army Corps of Engineers

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

View All Army Corps of Engineers Jobs

Apply