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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 ...

Home Health

Central Plant Operator

Burlington, VT · On-site

Behind every patient room, operating room, laboratory, and life‑saving procedure is a Central Utility Plant operating around the clock. As a Central Plant Operator, you'll be part of the team ...

New

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 ...

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Utility Plant Operator information

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$13

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How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% 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.

Facilities Plant Operator

Tucson, AZ • On-site

HKA Enterprises
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about HKA Enterprisesexternal

$22/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Diagnose operating problems and direct/perform corrective actions during assigned shift

  • Conduct preventive maintenance on Central Utility Plant and Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant systems

  • Operate PLCs and SCADA systems, read gauges and meters, and make process control adjustments

Job description


Plant Operations • Chillers • SCADA • Water Treatment • Tucson, AZ
Night shift: Wed-Sat 8:00PM-6:30AM (4×10-hr shifts). Training: Mon-Fri 7AM-3:30PM for 1-2 months.
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 equipment maintenance, quality control testing, and day-to-day operations on an assigned shift. You'll diagnose operating problems, conduct preventive maintenance, operate PLCs and SCADA systems, and make independent operating decisions when supervision is absent.
What you'll do
  • Diagnose operating problems and direct/perform corrective action during assigned shift
  • Conduct preventive maintenance on Central Utility Plant and Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant systems
  • Read gauges and meters, operate valves, start/stop equipment, and make process control adjustments
  • Determine and set proper chemical dosage and flow rates; operate PLCs and SCADA systems
  • Collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests and analyses on water treatment
  • Monitor, utilize, and update CMMS system; maintain complete records and plant logs
  • Make operating decisions independently in the absence of supervisory personnel
  • Prepare required reports and attend safety, process control, and training meetings

What you need
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 3+ years of experience in water/wastewater plant operations, utility mechanics, stationary engineering, or refrigeration mechanics
  • Demonstrated advanced skills in plant operations with strong independent judgment
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in environments with noise, confined spaces, chemicals, and outdoor conditions
  • Availability for Wed-Sat night shift 8PM-6:30AM after completing training

Nice to have
  • 3-5 years of Central Utility Plant experience - chillers, compressors, cooling towers, building management systems, emergency generators, fire pumps, and water treatment programs
  • Universal Refrigerant Processing Certificate - or working toward it
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CMMS, and data management systems
  • Experience operating plant PLCs and SCADA systems

Additional Information
HKA Enterprises is a global workforce solutions firm. If you're seeking a new career opportunity or project experience, our recruiters will work to understand your qualifications, experience, and personal goals. At HKA, we recognize the importance of matching employee goals with those of the employer. We strive to seek credibility, satisfaction, and endorsement from all of our applicants. We invite you to take time and search for your next career experience with us! HKA is an EEO Employer who participates in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services E-Verify Program.
Meet Your Recruiter
Matthew Alexander
HKA Enterprises is a global workforce solutions firm. If you're seeking a new career opportunity or project experience, our recruiters will work to understand your qualifications, experience, and personal goals. At HKA, we recognize the importance of matching employee goals with those of the employer. We strive to seek credibility, satisfaction, and endorsement from all of our applicants. We invite you to take time and search for your next career experience with us! HKA is an EEO Employer who participates in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services E-Verify Program.
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About HKA Enterprises

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fingerville, SC, US

Year founded

1977

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