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Utility Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Details Open Date 05/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN45114B Job Title Systems Operator Working Title Utility Plant Operator Career Progression Track D Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Campus, IL · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Details Open Date 05/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN45114B Job Title Systems Operator Working Title Utility Plant Operator Career Progression Track D Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Campus, IL

$26 - $33/hr

Details Open Date 05/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN45114B Job Title Systems Operator Working Title Utility Plant Operator Career Progression Track D Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Campus, IL

$26 - $33/hr

Details Open Date 05/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN45114B Job Title Systems Operator Working Title Utility Plant Operator Career Progression Track D Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive ...

University of Utah

Systems Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Announcement Details Open Date 05/19/2026 Requisition Number PRN45114B Job Title Systems Operator Working Title Utility Plant Operator Career Progression Track D Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt ...

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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.
Advanced Utilities Plant Operator - Dayshift

Advanced Utilities Plant Operator - Dayshift

NCSU

Raleigh, NC

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Posting Information
Posting Number PG195080SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Advanced Utilities Plant Operator - Dayshift Anticipated Hiring Range $55,000 - $60,000 Work Schedule 12 hr. shift, 3-4 days a week, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM - May vary dependent upon needs of the organization Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Utilities & Engineering Services About the Department
The NC State University Facilities Division is home to nearly 900 professionals who plan, build, and maintain the spaces that foster an environment where innovation, learning, and community thrive. Through this work, we help create spaces that empower students, faculty, and staff to reach their full potential. Operating year-round, we manage more than 16.7 million gross square feet of built space and oversee 4,733 acres of campus infrastructure through a series of core departments, each composed of multiple specialized units:

  • Design & Construction
  • Business Operations
  • Campus Operations and Maintenance
  • Campus Planning and Strategic Investment

Whether responding to a maintenance request, shaping future facilities, or creating spaces that inspire discovery, our team is grounded in excellence, service, and stewardship.
Join the pack and become part of one of the largest and most respected employers in the state, helping shape the future of our campus community. Take a look below to see what we offer!
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
Are you an experienced Utility Plant Operator looking for a meaningful career where your work has a direct impact every day?
Join our team and play a critical role in powering one of the nation's leading research universities. As a Utility Plant Operator, you will operate, monitor, and maintain complex utility systems that provide reliable electricity, heating, and cooling to classrooms, laboratories, residence halls, athletic facilities, and research spaces across campus.
In this role, you will work with advanced equipment and systems, including the state-of-the-art Cates Cogeneration Facility and large-scale chilled water production and distribution systems. Your expertise will help ensure the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the infrastructure that supports thousands of students, faculty, staff, and researchers.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy hands-on technical work, problem-solving, and operating sophisticated mechanical and electrical systems in a dynamic environment. If you are looking for a stable career with opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to apply today and become part of the team that keeps our campus running.

Working Hours: 12 hr. shift, 3-4 days a week, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Key responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Control, monitor, and operate steam boilers, chillers, cogeneration equipment, and auxiliary systems to provide continuous utility services.
  • Maintain safe and efficient operation of steam, hot water, and chilled water production systems.
  • Perform realtime monitoring of plant systems, make operational adjustments, and ensure compliance with emissions, safety, and regulatory requirements.
  • Inspect, operate, and perform routine maintenance on plant equipment, including fuel gas compressors, pumps, air filters, cooling towers, and related systems.
  • Support the operation of the Cates Cogeneration Facility to produce electricity and steam for campus use.
  • Identify and respond to equipment or system issues, escalating concerns to the shift supervisor as appropriate.
  • Lift and transport materials weighing up to 60 pounds with or without reasonable accommodations and perform a wide range of physically demanding tasks in varied outdoor environments, ensuring safe handling practices and maintaining productivity in varying weather and terrain conditions.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and the general public, and follow verbal and written instructions related to work assignments and operational needs.
Other Responsibilities
  • Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. 

Qualifications
Minimum Experience/Education

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Maintains required certification(s).

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with combustion gas turbines/cogeneration.
  • Experience in steam production (natural gas/fuel oil fire tube and water tube boilers up to 100kpph).
  • Experience in chilled water production (electric driven/turbine driven up to 2000 tons).
  • Experience in a central plant environment.
Required License or Certification
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • North Carolina Drivers' License required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes Commercial Driver's License Required? No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 07/06/2026 Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.) 07/13/2026 Notice to Applicants
Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase "see resume".
Special Instructions
Please include as attachments a resume/CV and contact information for at least 3 professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00109155 Position Type SHRA Position Classification Band Title Utilities Plant Operator Position Classification Band Level Advanced Position Classification Salary Range $ 38,064 - $ 82,128 Salary Grade Equivalency NC10 Alternate Option
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Utilities/Infrastructure Failure Time Limited Position No Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable) Department Id 445050 - Utilities and Engineering EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
North Carolina State University logo

About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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