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Utility Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chicken Ranch

CUP Lead Operator

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $32/hr

Central Utility Plant Manager Status: Non-Exempt * Position Summary * As a Team Member of the Engineering team , the Central Utility Plant Operator Lead is a CRCR Ambassador and takes personal ...

Chicken Ranch Casino

CUP Lead Operator

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $32/hr

Central Utility Plant Operator Lead * D epartment: Engineering | Reports To: Central Utility Plant Manager Status: Non-Exempt * Position Summary * As a Team Member of the Engineering team , the ...

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Utility Plant Operator information

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How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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 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.

Is being a plant operator worth it?

Utility plant operators are responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment in power plants, water treatment facilities, or other utility systems. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills, and often involves shift work, with salaries varying based on experience and location. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in infrastructure and operational technology.

What are Utility Plant Operators?

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 is the work of a utility operator?

A utility plant operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the equipment that generates and distributes utilities such as water, electricity, or gas. They perform inspections, maintain machinery, and ensure safety and compliance with regulations, often working with control systems and requiring technical skills and certifications. Their work environment typically involves shift work in power plants, water treatment facilities, or similar utility operations.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater plant operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the size of the facility also influence earning potential, with larger plants often offering higher wages.

How to get hired as a power plant operator?

To become a power plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical school programs. Relevant skills include understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, and many employers require certification or licensing, such as a state-issued license or operator certification, depending on the facility and jurisdiction.
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Utility Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% 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 Auxiliary Operator - Extra Relief

Utility Plant Auxiliary Operator - Extra Relief

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description
By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why join Harvard University Central Administration?
Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.
Job Description
Assists the Utility Plant Operating Engineer in operating the plant, performs routine operating and maintenance tasks associated with plant operations and the production of utilities (e.g., steam, chilled water, and electrical generating equipment), and performs regular inspection tours of the utility plant and related facilities. Under the direction of the Utility Plant Operating Engineer, operates boilers, steam turbine generators, diesel/natural gas generators, chillers, electrical switchgear and substations as well as associated auxiliary equipment. Maintains logs, prepares equipment for operations or shutdown condition, monitors instrument readings and performs related duties as assigned.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
  • Under the supervision of the Utility Plant Operations Supervisor and under the general direction of the Utility Plant Operating Engineer, performs operating and maintenance tasks to ensure safe and proper operation, monitoring and control of all equipment associated with plant operations and the production of utilities.
  • Participate in the starting, control, operation, shutdown and inspection of boilers, steam turbine generators, diesel/natural gas generators, chillers, electrical switchgear, substations and all other equipment associated with plant operations and the production of utilities.
  • Communicates regularly with the Utility Plant Operating Engineer and Utility Plant Operations Supervisor and takes action in order to safely maintain or restore utility production.
  • Prepare/maintain logs, charts, and other operating records.
  • Monitor instrumentation for proper operating conditions and determines nature and cause of trouble.
  • With advice and direction from Utility Plant Operating Engineer and/or Utility Plant Operations Supervisor, performs necessary corrective action to protect personnel, equipment, system integrity, and to maintain optimum efficiency and safety.
  • Review plant and equipment status with personnel on shift and via control/computerized systems to monitor load conditions, status, etc.
  • Observe various instruments, records readings, and evaluates readings.
  • Obtains advice and direction from Utility Plant Operating Engineer and/or Utility Plant Operations Supervisor, and takes appropriate action as necessary to protect personnel, equipment, system integrity, and to maintain optimum efficiency and safety.
  • Participates in emergency response training and drills.
  • Perform inspection tours of utility plant and related facilities as needed.
  • May be required to perform duties of Utility Plant Operating Engineer on an as needed basis (if qualified and when directed).
  • Perform routine operating maintenance, including cleaning of equipment and plant work areas.
  • Participate in emergency response activities; may be assigned work of equal or lower skill level, including maintenance work; and must participate in mandatory training and other programs as required.
  • Must observe and comply with all codes and perform work in accordance with recognized industry standards; University policies, procedures, and standards; and local, state, and federal laws/requirements.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Working Conditions:
  • Emergency Status Designation: Critical Operations Personnel (required to provide on-site support during emergency situations as determined by management).

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be physically fit and mentally alert at all times.
  • Must be able to perform all duties in a utility/industrial plant environment that includes exposure to loud noises, chemicals, temperature extremes, inclement weather conditions, airborne particles, vibration, hazardous materials, stairs, ladders, confined spaces, etc.; requires stooping, bending, climbing, reaching, lifting, and carrying; working from ladders, scaffolds, high-lifts, and in confined spaces; and lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 65 pounds.
  • Required to wear personal protective equipment and clothing where appropriate; may be required to wear a respirator (negative pressure or equivalent) and other respiratory protection equipment up to the level of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
  • At no time is facial hair permitted. Required to participate in Hearing Conservation and medical surveillance programs.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or equivalent, with a minimum of three years' prior work experience in the operation of modern high-pressure boilers and applicable auxiliary equipment required.
  • Requires valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts's First Class Fireman's License.
  • Must have, or successfully obtain within 6 months of hiring, EPA CFC certification (universal).
  • Valid State driver's license required. Driving history must meet University Operations Services standards.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:
  • Safety conscious, have a fair degree of mechanical ability, and have in-depth working knowledge of the power plant cycle.
  • Possess a high degree of professionalism and the ability to work well independently and effectively with others.
  • Detail oriented and have a good safety record, and the ability to take and follow directions intelligently.
  • Able to handle multiple tasks and prioritize work effectively.
  • An ongoing willingness to acquire new skills and utilize technology to streamline processes and problem solve is essential.
  • Familiarity with databases, spreadsheet, email, and word processing software is helpful.
  • Experience to interface with/utilize control systems and computerized asset/maintenance management systems.
  • May be required to work overtime relief, off-shift, emergency coverage (nights, weekend, etc.) and /or other schedules, as needed. Commonwealth of Massachusetts's Grade I or higher Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator's license desirable.
  • May be required to operate cranes, forklifts (and/or similar machinery), or lifting devices.

Certificates and Licenses:
  • Requires valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts's First Class Fireman's License.
  • Must have, or successfully obtain within 6 months of hiring, EPA CFC certification (universal).
  • Valid State driver's license required. Driving history must meet University Operations Services standards.

Additional Information
Standard Hours/Schedule:
  • 40 hours per week
  • Sunday: 6:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Monday: 6:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 6:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 6:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Thursday: 6:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Friday: OFF
  • Saturday: OFF

Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):
  • $52.67/hour

Visa Sponsorship Information:
  • Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening:
  • Identity
  • Education
  • Criminal
  • Certification/License
  • Motor Vehicle Record
  • Drug Test
  • References

#LI-RC1
Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

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