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Utility Plant Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Boden Talent

Central Utility Plant Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$167K - $219K/yr

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of plant operators, engineers, and technicians. * Oversee the safe and efficient operation of central utility plant systems. * Implement preventative and predictive ...

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

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

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 ...

City of Oceanside

Water Plant Operator II/III

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Water Plant Operator II: $6,505 - $8,715 Water Plant Operator III: $7,150 - $9,584 About Oceanside ... The Oceanside Water Utilities Department is an innovative and forward-looking organization whose ...

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 ...

City of San Diego

Wastewater Plant Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$103K - $124K/yr

... forklifts, utility carts, and small tractors; and perform other duties as assigned. NOTES ... Wastewater Plant Operator employees must be able to stoop, twist, turn, bend, squat, sit, and stand ...

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 9, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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 40% Full Time, 58% 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.

Central Utility Plant Manager

Boden Talent

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$167K - $219K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Central Utility Plant Manager

📍 Sunnyvale, CA | On-site


Boden Talent is partnering with our client, a globally recognised organisation, to appoint an experienced Central Utility Plant Manager to lead the operation of a large-scale, mission-critical central utility plant.


This is a fantastic opportunity to oversee critical infrastructure supporting a complex commercial campus, ensuring operational reliability, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance while leading a high-performing team of engineers and technicians.


The Opportunity

You'll take ownership of the day-to-day operation and long-term strategy of the central utility plant, managing essential mechanical systems including chillers, boilers, cooling towers, pumps, heat exchangers, and building automation systems (BAS). Alongside driving operational excellence, you'll play a key role in sustainability initiatives, capital planning, and continuous improvement.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of plant operators, engineers, and technicians.
  • Oversee the safe and efficient operation of central utility plant systems.
  • Implement preventative and predictive maintenance programmes to maximise equipment reliability.
  • Monitor energy performance and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost savings.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health & safety, and operational regulations.
  • Manage contractors, vendors, and procurement activities.
  • Respond to plant emergencies and lead troubleshooting of critical systems.
  • Prepare operational reports, budgets, and capital improvement plans.
  • Work closely with facilities leadership and key stakeholders to support wider business objectives.

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • 7-10+ years' experience managing central utility plants, critical facilities, or large-scale mechanical infrastructure.
  • Strong technical knowledge of chiller plants, boilers, cooling towers, pumps, HVAC systems, and BAS.
  • Stationary Engineer, Boiler Operator, or equivalent licence (where required).
  • Proven leadership experience managing technical teams.
  • Experience with budgeting, capital planning, and operational performance management.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills within mission-critical environments.
  • Excellent understanding of energy management and regulatory compliance.

Desirable Experience

  • Master's degree in Engineering or Facilities Management.
  • Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Plant Engineer (CPE), or Building Operator Certification (BOC).
  • Experience using CMMS and energy management platforms.
  • Background within mission-critical, healthcare, higher education, or large commercial campus environments.
  • Knowledge of LEED, ASHRAE, Lean, or Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

What's on Offer

  • Salary: $167,200 - $219,980 + comprehensive benefits.
  • Opportunity to join a world-class organisation operating a highly advanced, mission-critical campus.
  • Long-term career progression with exposure to large-scale infrastructure and sustainability initiatives.


Please note: Applicants must be authorised to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Apply