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Utility Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Precision Pulley and Idler

Plant Utility

Humboldt, IA · On-site

Plant Utility Division: Precision Pulley & Idler (PPI) Location: Humboldt, IA - On-site Shift: 1st ... Operating various machines, including lathes and mills, to produce precision components according ...

Novelis

Plant Utility

Davenport, IA · On-site

Required to train/qualify at the following operator jobs: § Cold Mill Operator § Coil Finishing ... Must be knowledgeable and be willing to comply with plant safety rules and departmental safety ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$42.20/hr

Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential) * Qualified Boiler Tech II ... Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of material handling ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$28.93 - $31.12/hr

Power Plant Utility/Operator - Co-Generation Plant $1,500 Sign-On Bonus |$28.93/hr Starting Pay Location: ADM Soybean Processing Plant 1940 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA 50313 Shift: 12-hr rotating swing ...

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All JobsUtility Plant Operator JobsUtility Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa

Utility Plant Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$34

How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility plant operator in Iowa is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $28.89 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

Utility Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,979 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Manager - MCNL Central Utility Plant

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

University Of Iowa Health Care rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

382nd of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description
The Central Utility Plant (CUP) Manager provides leadership and technical oversight for the operation, maintenance, and project management that supply steam, chilled water, and other critical utilities for the Medical Center North Liberty Campus at University of Iowa Health Care.
This position ensures safe, efficient, and reliable CUP operations while maintaining compliance with all applicable environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements. The CUP Manager will also manage capital and maintenance projects, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to support long-term reliability, sustainability, and energy efficiency.
  • Direct and oversee the daily operation of the CUP facilities, ensuring reliable, efficient, and safe service delivery to campus.
  • Manage and coordinate operation of boilers, chillers, turbines, pumps, compressors, and associated utility systems.
  • Supervise and schedule CUP staff, including operators, mechanics, and technicians, ensuring 24/7 coverage of MCNL CUP.
  • Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance activities using a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), such as WebTMA.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, standards, and regulations (ASME, NFPA, EPA, OSHA, and State of Iowa).
  • Serve as project manager for all CUP-related capital, infrastructure, and system improvement projects-developing scope, budgets, and timelines and coordinating with Engineering Services, consultants, and contractors.
  • Develop and manage annual operating and capital budget for MCNL CUP.
  • Monitor fuel and energy consumption; recommend and implement energy conservation and cost-saving measures.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation related to operations, maintenance, safety, and environmental compliance.
  • Promote a culture of safety, teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement among CUP staff.

Pay Level: 5A
Professional and Scientific Pay Structures | University Human Resources - The University of Iowa
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 3-5 years of experience working in an environment that requires regulatory or compliance responsibilities, specifically related hospital HVAC systems.
  • Current Iowa HVAC mechanical license.
  • Backflow Certified within the State of Iowa.
  • Experience managing/leading an HVAC team.
  • Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and building automation systems (BAS)

Desired Qualifications:
  • State of Iowa Boiler Operator or stationary engineer license
  • Iowa Class A/B UST Operator certified
  • Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) certification

Application Process:
In order to be considered, applicants must upload the following materials (check the box for required attachment):
  • Resume/CV
  • Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. Successful candidates must self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and education verification. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization. Please contact polly-terukina@uiowa.edu with any questions.

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