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Utility Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HKA Enterprises

Facilities Plant Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$22/hr

Pay: $22.00- $24.00 per hour DOE We're looking for an experienced Central Utility Plant Operator to perform a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a Central Utility Plant - including ...

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How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility plant operator in the United States is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.77 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.
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Utility Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Utility Plant Operator II

Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation

Highland, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago

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. Ensures guest comfort through operation of the building automation systems to maintain building climate controls. Communicates work performed and/or updates and maintains daily 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, and assists the Assistant Manager in planning routine maintenance and shutdowns. Conducts risk assessments of equipment failures, minimizing risk, and implements new technologies to improve equipment reliability and efficiency. Ensures all maintenance activities are documented accurately and reported in a timely manner to comply with regulatory requirements.
3. Maintains clear and accurate documentation of all operating data, inspections, testing, maintenance (corrective and/or preventative) performed and assists with repairs, parts orders and communicating with leads and team leaders on any concerns. Updates equipment documentation, specifications and drawings, as needed. Ensures all maintenance activities are documented accurately and reported in a timely manner to comply with regulatory requirements.
4. Coordinates with HVAC and Electrical departments to assist in locating and troubleshooting issues in building systems. Partners with vendors and service providers regarding maintenance 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 create blueprints/drawings.
5. Responds to emergency situations, that require quick thinking and decisive action during 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 communication skills are essential in coordinating with emergency 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. Performs other duties as assigned to support the e?cient operation of the department.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • 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 boiler plant, operation experience required.

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

  • Related, relevant, and/or direct experience may be considered in lieu of minimum educational requirements indicated above.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND 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 boiler plant, operation experience required.

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

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS AND REGISTRATIONS
  • At the discretion of the San Manuel Tribal Gaming Commission, you may be required to obtain and maintain a 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.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/ WORKING CONDITIONS - 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.
  • Primary work environment is in a facility setting.

  • Work may require travel to attend meetings, trade shows, and conferences.

  • Incumbents may be required to work evening, weekend and holiday shifts.

  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced, high-demand environment.

  • Strength sufficient to exert up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects and/or move up to 40 pounds occasionally.

  • Sedentary work: very little sitting. Able to operate a computer and other

  • office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.

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

  • Hearing sufficient to hear conversational levels in person, via videoconference and over the telephone.

  • Speech sufficient to make oneself heard and understood in person, in front of groups, in meetings,

  • via videoconference and over the telephone.

  • Visual acuity that meets the requirements of the position: The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; expansive reading and visual inspection of employees, visitors or facility.

  • Mobility sufficient to safely move in an office environment, walk, stoop, bend and kneel, and enter, exit and operate a motor vehicle in the course of travel to promotional events, meetings, conferences, trade shows and San Manuel properties.

  • Endurance sufficient to sit, walk and stand for extended periods, and maintain efficiency throughout the entire work shift and during extended work hours.

  • The employee may be exposed to fumes or airborne particles including secondhand smoke.

Reasonable accommodation will be made in compliance with all applicable law.
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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