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Utility Plant Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JLL

Central Utility Plant Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Lead and mentor a team of plant operators, technicians, and engineers, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous learning * Monitor and optimize central utility plant operations ...

Fortera Corporation

Plant Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Experience in manufacturing, industrial operations, maintenance, construction, commissioning, utilities, or other hands-on industrial environments is highly valued. Plant Operators will receive the ...

California Bioenergy LLC

Biogas Plant Operator

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Biogas Plant Operator Department: Operations Reports To: Operations Supervisor Location: Turlock ... utilities, or gas processing environment preferred. * Working knowledge of industrial safety ...

DTE Energy

Utility Plant Manager

Stockton, CA · On-site

$135K - $203K/yr

Makes and/or approves major operating and maintenance decisions, as required, to ensure that the plant is operated within the terms and conditions of all operations and maintenance (O&M), power ...

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All JobsUtility Plant Operator JobsUtility Plant Operator Jobs in California

Utility Plant Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility plant operator in California is $25.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility plant operator?

Utility Plant Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and maintaining the equipment that generates and distributes utilities such as electricity, steam, gas, or water. They monitor gauges, meters, and control panels to ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, making adjustments as needed. Their work is essential for the continuous operation of power plants, water treatment facilities, and other utility services, and they often respond to emergencies or malfunctions to minimize downtime.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, process controls, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and standard operating procedures is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond to issues and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of utility plants.

What are some common challenges utility plant operators face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Utility Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, responding to unexpected system alarms, and adapting to evolving safety regulations. Effective operators develop strong troubleshooting skills, stay current on safety protocols, and participate in regular training to keep up with technological advancements. Teamwork and clear communication with maintenance and engineering staff are also crucial for resolving issues promptly and minimizing downtime.

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

AspectUtility Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require state licensingHigh school diploma; often requires licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentUtilities, water treatment, or power generation facilitiesPower generation plants, including fossil fuel, nuclear, or renewable sources
Industry UsageUtilities, water, and energy sectorsElectric power industry, power plants

Utility Plant Operators and Power Plant Operators both work in energy-related facilities, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. While Utility Plant Operators focus on maintaining and operating utility systems like water or energy distribution, Power Plant Operators specifically control and monitor power generation equipment. Both roles are essential in the energy sector, but their specific responsibilities and work settings differ slightly.

How to get hired as a utility plant operator?

To get hired as a utility plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and sometimes a state license or certification. Experience with industrial equipment, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in shifts are also important factors in the hiring process.

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

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

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

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

Utility Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,565 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Utility Plant Operator II

San Manuel Casino

Highland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Under the direction of the Assistant Manager, Facilities, the Utility Plant Operator II, performs journeyman-level work related to the operation, installation, inspection, modification, remodeling and repair of boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, blowers and all ancillary equipment and property associated with all Central Plant Utility Operations. Collaborates, initiates, and supports opportunities with other functions by championing the goals and priorities of the Tribe in a manner that faithfully reflects and upholds the Tribe's vision, mission and values.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Oversees the operation of cooling towers, blowers, chillers, Cogen system, boilers, and other plant equipment.Ensuresguest comfort throughoperationof the building automation systems tomaintainbuilding climate controls. Communicateswork performed and/or updates andmaintainsdaily required log keeping. Participates in training programs to stay current on industry best practices and safety protocols.
2. Inspects and performs preventative maintenance to ensure clear milestones are set and followed, including mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and environmental management systems. Reviews and updates plant logs, develops preventive maintenance instructions, andassiststhe Assistant Manager in planning routine maintenance and shutdowns. Conductsrisk assessments of equipment failures, minimizing risk, andimplementsnew technologiesto improve equipment reliability and efficiency.Ensuresall maintenance activities are documented accurately and reportedin a timely mannertocomply withregulatory requirements.
3. Maintains clear andaccuratedocumentation of all operating data, inspections, testing, maintenance (corrective and/or preventative) performed andassistswith repairs, parts orders and communicating with leads and team leaders on any concerns. Updates equipment documentation,specificationsand drawings, as needed.Ensuresall maintenance activities are documented accurately and reportedin a timely mannertocomply withregulatory requirements.
4. Coordinates with HVAC and Electrical departments toassistinlocatingand troubleshooting issues in building systems. Partners with vendors and service providersregardingmaintenance and repair of equipment. Collaborates with contractors and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) specifications for new construction and retrofit/renovation projects according to building code requirements to createblueprints/drawings.
5. Responds to emergencysituations,that require quick thinking and decisive actionduring or after hours, to mitigate and/or resolve immediate plant operating concerns and/or safety issues/concerns. Ensures the safety of all plant personnel and prevents any potential damage to equipment or property.Strong communicationskills are essential incoordinating withemergency services and internal teams to effectively address the situation.
6. Assists with Central Plant Management to service all systems and related machinery to remain in compliance with all regulating bodies (OSHA, EPA) and minimize downtime in a safe and efficient manner.Coordinates with external vendors and contractors as needed for specialized repairs for maintenance tasks.
7. Performsotherdutiesasassignedtosupporttheecientoperationofthedepartment.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GEDrequired.

  • Minimum of five (5) years of facility maintenance experience to include progressive cogeneration operation, power plant, diesel generator, central chilled water plant, central hydraulic system and/or boilerplant,operation experiencerequired.

  • Trade school (HVAC, electrical) or equivalent required.

  • Related,relevant,and/ordirectexperiencemaybeconsideredinlieuofminimumeducational requirementsindicatedabove.

KNOWLEDGE,SKILLSAND ABILITIES (KSA)

  • High School Diploma or GED required.

  • Minimum of five (5) years of facility maintenance experience to include progressive cogeneration operation, power plant, diesel generator, central chilled water plant, central hydraulic system and/or boilerplant,operation experiencerequired.

  • Trade school (HVAC, electrical) or equivalent required.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS AND REGISTRATIONS

  • At the discretion of the San Manuel Tribal Gaming Commission, you maybe requiredto obtain andmaintaina gaming license.

  • Universal EPA Certificate preferred.

  • Authorized Driver: Role requires operation or driving of Tribe-owned vehicles or driving patron vehicles. A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record as determined by the insurance carrier is required.

PHYSICALREQUIREMENTS/WORKINGCONDITIONS-ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and working environment described here are representative of those that an employee encounters and must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Primaryworkenvironmentisinafacilitysetting.

  • Workmayrequiretraveltoattendmeetings,tradeshows,andconferences.

  • Incumbentsmayberequiredtoworkevening,weekendandholidayshifts.

  • Mustbeabletoworkinafast-paced,high-demandenvironment.

  • Strengthsufficienttoexertupto10poundsofforceoccasionallyand/oranegligibleamountof forcefrequentlyor constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects and/or move up to 40 pounds occasionally.

  • Sedentarywork:very littlesitting.Able tooperateacomputerandother

  • officeproductivitymachinery,suchasacalculator,copymachine,andcomputerprinter.

  • Physical activities that apply to the essential functions of the position are balancing, stooping, kneeling,crouching,reaching,pushing,pulling,lifting,grasping,talking,hearing,andrepetitivemotions.

  • Hearingsufficienttohearconversationallevelsinperson,viavideoconferenceandoverthe telephone.

  • Speechsufficienttomakeoneselfheardandunderstoodinperson,infrontofgroups,inmeetings,

  • viavideoconferenceandoverthetelephone.

  • Visual acuity that meets the requirements of the position: The worker is required to have close visualacuitytoperformanactivitysuchaspreparingandanalyzingdataandfigures; transcribing;viewingacomputerterminal;expansivereadingandvisualinspectionofemployees, visitors or facility.

  • Mobilitysufficienttosafelymoveinanofficeenvironment,walk,stoop,bendandkneel,andenter,exitandoperatea motor vehiclein the course oftravel to promotional events, meetings, conferences, tradeshowsand San Manuel properties.

  • Endurancesufficienttosit,walkandstandforextendedperiods,andmaintainefficiencythroughout the entire work shift and during extended work hours.

  • Theemployeemaybeexposedtofumesorairborneparticlesincludingsecondhandsmoke.

Reasonable accommodation will be made in compliance with all applicablelaw.

As one of the largest private employers in the Inland Empire, San Manuel deeply cares about the future, growth and well-being of its employees. Join our team today!

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