ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Turbine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FieldCore

Turbine Mechanic

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$25/hr

... enabling operators of the world's energy infrastructure to provide more reliable and affordable ... Turbine Mechanics work closely with Supervisors, EHS personnel, and the Operations Department to ...

Terra- Gen Operating Company LLC

Operator III

Mojave, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Has general understanding of wind turbine operations. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Other ... Complete proper shift change with previous operator and file. * Perform Security checks, which ...

Terra-Gen Operating Company LLC

Operator III

Mojave, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Has general understanding of wind turbine operations. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Other ... Complete proper shift change with previous operator and file. * Perform Security checks, which ...

Terra-Gen Operating Company LLC

Operator III

Mojave, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Has general understanding of wind turbine operations. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Other ... Complete proper shift change with previous operator and file. * Perform Security checks, which ...

City of Pasadena

Power Plant Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

This safety-focused operator demonstrates strong technical skills in monitoring plant systems ... Makes routine rounds and inspects turbines, heat recovery steam boilers and auxiliary equipment ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTurbine Operator JobsTurbine Operator Jobs in California

Turbine Operator information

See California salary details

$42

$46

$48

How much do turbine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for turbine operator in California is $46.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.38 and $47.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a turbine operator?

A Turbine Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining turbines used in power generation or industrial applications. They ensure the equipment operates efficiently by adjusting controls, performing inspections, and troubleshooting issues. Operators work with steam, gas, hydro, or wind turbines, depending on the industry. Their role is critical in maintaining power output, safety, and compliance with operational guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a turbine operator?

To thrive as a Turbine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, control panels, and safety protocols is important, and OSHA or specific turbine operation certifications are often preferred. Effective communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient turbine operation and quick response to troubleshooting or emergency situations.

What are some typical challenges faced by turbine operators during a shift?

Turbine Operators may encounter challenges such as responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions, managing rapid shifts in environmental conditions, or accurately troubleshooting system irregularities under time constraints. They must also remain vigilant during long monitoring periods to ensure turbines operate efficiently and safely, often working in team settings where clear communication is essential. Adhering to strict safety protocols and documenting any incidents or maintenance activities is a routine part of the role. Proactive maintenance and ongoing training help minimize these challenges and keep operations running smoothly.

How do you become a turbine operator?

To become a turbine operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Many employers prefer applicants with technical skills, knowledge of mechanical systems, and sometimes relevant certifications such as a boiler operator license or safety training. Experience operating control systems and understanding of safety protocols are also important for this role.

How much do turbine operators make?

Turbine operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of control systems and safety procedures.

How much do wind turbine operators make?

Wind turbine operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the turbines they manage. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime work in remote or offshore environments.

What does a turbine operator do?

A turbine operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring turbines in power plants or industrial facilities to ensure efficient and safe operation. They start, stop, and adjust turbines, perform routine inspections, and respond to equipment alarms, often using control systems and requiring technical knowledge and safety certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Turbine Operator jobs in California?

For Turbine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Turbine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Turbine Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Turbine Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Turbine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Turbine Operator jobs in CA?

For Turbine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Turbine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turbine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,729 per year, or $46 per hour.

Sr Steam Turbine Engineer

BizTek People, Inc. | APA International Placement Consultants

Calipatria, CA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description


  • The SrSteam Turbine Engineer is responsible for ensuring the reliability andperformance of major rotating equipment including steam turbines, coolingwater pumps, and injection pumps. This role provides technical leadership,oversees maintenance programs, and serves as the owner's representativefor mechanical projects.
  • PrimaryJob Duties and Responsibilities
  • Adhereto, support, and enforce all company safety and environmental rules,policies, and procedures
  • Responsiblefor the proper maintenance and repair of main steam turbines, coolingwater pumps and injection pumps to include development of written jobscopes and procedures to complete major inspections on turbines andgenerators
  • Identifyspare parts and verify stock of critical parts
  • Coordinatesthe repair of turbine rotors and turbine parts
  • Havereliability, predictive and preventative maintenance activities completedfor the major rotating equipment. This includes vibration analysis,lubrication analysis and thermography.
  • Recommendmajor work activities for critical equipment during major overhauls
  • Responsiblefor failure analysis program, coordinates investigations
  • Write technicalportion of contracts to be performed on rotating equipment
  • Servesas owner's representative for capital and expense mechanical projects
  • Providetechnical leadership to staff
  • Providetechnical input to assist in development of project planning
  • Performadditional responsibilities as requested or assigned

Requirements
  • Musthave bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited universityengineering program
  • Aprofessional engineering license is recommended to be considered for thesenior level
  • Sevento ten years of experience and knowledge of steam turbine operation,maintenance and repair, power plant engineering, business/financial andcontractual matters
  • Excellentcommunication skills are required to interface and communicate with allemployees, superiors and vendors
  • Abilityto prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently
  • Abilityto read, analyze and interpret procedures, regulations, blueprints,schematics and process and instrument diagrams
  • Capabilityof writing reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals
  • Abilityto effectively present information and respond to questions fromcustomers, the general public and employees at all levels
  • Competentin giving oral and written instruction that is understandable by all
  • Must beable to make clear and precise decisions in critical situations (accidentsites); make clear and precise decisions if environmental problems shouldoccur and be able to evaluate safety/environmental concerns and develop aprocedure that complies with CalEnergy Operating Corporation procedures
  • Musthave the ability to use technical skills to focus ideas onto substantialprojects
  • Mustshow a willingness to learn, as well as to clearly communicate complexideas and concepts to those with less technical background
  • Must beable to meet physical requirements of the role, including lifting up to 50lbs., climbing, working in confined spaces, and tolerating extremetemperatures
  • A validCalifornia driver's license is required
  • ACalifornia professional engineering license is preferred

Apply