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Utility Plant Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Utility Plant Operator

College Station, TX · On-site

$34.68 - $38.14/hr

Job Title Utility Plant Operator Agency Texas A&M University Department Utilities & Energy Services Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location College Station, Texas Job Type Staff Our ...

City of Midland

Lead Utility Plant Operator

Midland, TX · On-site

$60K/yr

As a Water Treatment Plant Operator III with the City of Midland, you'll serve as a lead operator, overseeing complex plant operations, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring our water systems meet or ...

CRH

Plant Operator

Franklin, TX · On-site

The Company also provides mission-critical utility services, including operations support, waste disposal, and environmental remediation. Job Summary The Plant Operator is knowledgeable in all facets ...

CRH

Plant Operator

Franklin, TX

The Company also provides mission-critical utility services, including operations support, waste disposal, and environmental remediation. Job Summary The Plant Operator is knowledgeable in all facets ...

Howard Energy Partners

Plant Operator

Orla, TX

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Plant Operator to join our growing team in the midstream oil ... tank farm, utilities, engines/compressors, PD pumps, and centrifugal pumps. We offer a ...

Howard Energy Partners

Plant Operator

Orla, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Plant Operator to join our growing team in the midstream oil ... tank farm, utilities, engines/compressors, PD pumps, and centrifugal pumps. We offer a ...

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All JobsUtility Plant Operator JobsUtility Plant Operator Jobs in Texas

Utility Plant Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$24

$34

How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility plant operator in Texas is $24.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.65 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 Texas?

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Utility Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Utility Plant Operator job openings:

Utility Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in Texas as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,566 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Utility Plant Operator

College Station, TX • On-site

Tamus
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Tamusexternal

$34.68 - $38.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title

Utility Plant Operator

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Utilities & Energy Services

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Our Commitment

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

Who We Are

Utilities & Energy Services in the Division of Operations includes over 200 staff members with varied backgrounds and interests. Our goal is to be a world class leader in the production, delivery, and management of utilities and energy services, fostering a culture of excellence while effectively stewarding university resources and the environment. If you would like to learn more about UES, please visit: https://utilities.tamu.edu

What we want

We are looking for Utility Plant Operators at various levels of experience. Whether you have minimal experience or several years in the field, we encourage you to apply. If this job description resonates with you, we invite you to submit your application for consideration.

What you need to know

We have multiple openings available. Please include your work history with brief details by attaching a resume or completing the application. Our department may reach out to schedule an interview. The recruitment process, including screening, interviews, and reference checks, will help us determine the best fit for the positions.

This position operates on a 12hour schedule following a 7day rotating shift cycle, which includes seven consecutive days off between each rotation.

This position is located in College Station, TX. Remote/Work from alternate location is not available at this time.

Qualifications

Senior Utility Plant Operator:

  • Requires high school or equivalent & 5 years of utility plant operation experience

  • Responsible for safely and efficiently operating the utility plant and satellite plant heating and cooling systems on an advanced level. May drive University vehicle.

  • Valid driver's license

  • Pay Range $34.68 - $38.14 per hour

Utility Plant Operator:

  • Requires high school or equivalent & 3 years of utility plant operation experience.

  • Responsible for safely and efficiently operating the utility plant and satellite plant heating and cooling systems. May drive University vehicle

  • Valid driver's license

  • Pay Range - $30.15 - $33.17 per hour

Responsibilities

  • Operates steam boiler, high pressure pumping units, vacuum pumps, chilled water systems, boiler feed pumps, and auxiliary equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations.

  • Assists in observation of switchboard for electrical load changes.

  • Performs preventative maintenance and repairs equipment.

  • Observes and operates controls on cooling and water towers.

  • Assists in the operation of water heating and chilling systems.

Why Texas A&M University?

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration. Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.

  • Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

  • 12-15 days of annual paid holidays

  • Up to eight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacationeach month

  • Automatically enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas

  • Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time

  • Professional Development: All employees have access to freeLinkedIn Learningtraining, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more

  • Employee Tuition Assistance and Educational Release time for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.

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