ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trainee Power Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Uni

Utility Plant Operator Trainee/I/II/III

Campus, IL

$24.90/hr

... of Power Engineers (NIULPE) or State of Minnesota Second Class Engineer license or ability to ... Utility Plant Operator Trainee: $24.90; Utility Plant Operator I: $27.17; Utility Plant 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 Plant Trainee I

Power Plant Trainee I

US Department of the Army

Celina, TN

$40.90/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

United States Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 481 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoW Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: You will serve as a first year trainee in a formal program in power plant operation. The assignments, on-the-job training, and required course work are designed to qualify the employee for the next higher grade in the trainee program.
11 Total VacanciesQualifications: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.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to perform the duties of a POWER PLANT TRAINEE I without more than normal supervision. Duties include operating, servicing and maintaining hydroelectric power plant equipment and associated auxiliary systems; performing routine preventative maintenance inspections and operational checks; cleaning and painting equipment and facilities; and assisting with major electrical and mechanical maintenance and overhaul activities. Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Incumbent frequently lifts, carries or otherwise handles items weighing up to 50 pounds. Occasionally handles items greater than 50 pounds. Assistance is available with heavy items. Works in sitting, standing, walking. bending, crouching, reaching, and stooping positions, for extended periods if required.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is required to be performed both inside and outside and is subject to all extremes of weather. Incumbent is subjected to the danger of falls from scaffolds and slings, asbestos, carbon dust, fumes, electric shock, noise, moving machinery. close places in cramped positions. slippery conditions both water and grease. frequent travel, and other conditions expected from mechanical and electrical repair of power plant equipment. Incumbent is subject to abrasions, burns, cuts. and bruises common to the use of hand tools. Employee is required to observe established safe working procedures. Wearing of respirators, hard hats, hard toe footwear, gloves. goggles. face shields, rubber aprons, rainwear, and earplugs is mandatory in the performance of duties.Education:The Hydropower Plant Trainee program includes approximately one year of formal classroom instruction at Old Hickory Power Plant (Hendersonville, TN), followed by 2-3 years of structured on-the-job training. Upon successful completion of the classroom training phase, trainees may be assigned to duty locations including Barkley Power Plant (Kuttawa, KY); Cordell Hull Power Plant (Carthage, TN); Dale Hollow Power Plant (Celina, TN); Cheatham Power Plant (Charlotte, TN); Old Hickory Power Plant (Hendersonville, TN); and Center Hill Power Plant (Lancaster, TN).Employment Type: OTHER

What United States Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

US Army logo

About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All US Army Jobs

Apply