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Virtual Power Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

$42.20/hr

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA $1,500 Sign-on Bonus!* Starting Pay Rate: $28.36 * Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential) * Qualified Boiler ...

Iowa State University

Utility Plant Operator I

Ames, IA · On-site

The Utility Plant Operator I assists in operating power plant auxiliary systems, supports Utility Plant Operator II personnel, and performs maintenance duties. This position requires working rotating ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$42.20/hr

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA $1,500 Sign-on Bonus!* Starting Pay Rate: $28.36 * Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential) * Qualified Boiler ...

State of Iowa

Power Plant Engineer 3

Des Moines, IA

$49K - $64K/yr

This position is also responsible for operating generators for the Institute's electrical power in ... in power plant engineering principles including the operation, maintenance and repair of steam ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$28.93 - $31.12/hr

Power Plant Utility/Operator - Co-Generation Plant $1,500 Sign-On Bonus |$28.93/hr Starting Pay Location: ADM Soybean Processing Plant 1940 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA 50313 Shift: 12-hr rotating swing ...

ChemTreat

Plant Bulk Coordinator

Eldridge, IA · On-site

We understand and respect the awe-inspiring power of water to impact industries, and to sustain and ... The Plant Bulk Coordinator is responsible for training incoming drivers around preparing bulk ...

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Virtual Power Plant Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$18

$41

$59

How much do virtual power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual power plant operator in Iowa is $42.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $55.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual power plant operator?

A Virtual Power Plant Operator needs a solid understanding of power systems, energy management, and grid operations, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and real-time monitoring tools is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills help operators respond effectively to dynamic grid conditions and coordinate with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring grid stability, optimizing distributed energy resources, and maintaining reliable power delivery.

How does a virtual power plant operator coordinate with distributed energy resources and utility partners?

As a Virtual Power Plant Operator, you will regularly collaborate with distributed energy resource (DER) owners, such as solar or battery storage operators, as well as utility partners to balance supply and demand on the grid. This involves monitoring real-time data, issuing control commands, and troubleshooting connectivity or technical issues. Effective communication and coordination are essential, since you may need to rapidly respond to changes in grid conditions or participate in scheduled maintenance activities. The role often requires working within a team of engineers, analysts, and IT specialists to ensure seamless integration of assets and maximize grid reliability.

What is the difference between Virtual Power Plant Operator vs Solar Power Plant Technician?

AspectVirtual Power Plant OperatorSolar Power Plant Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications in energy management, grid operationsSolar installation and maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentControl centers, data analysis, grid managementOutdoor, solar farm sites, equipment troubleshooting
Industry UsageEnergy utilities, smart grid companiesRenewable energy companies, solar farms

The Virtual Power Plant Operator and Solar Power Plant Technician roles both involve renewable energy but differ in focus. The Virtual Power Plant Operator manages energy flow and grid stability using digital systems, while the Solar Power Plant Technician maintains and repairs solar equipment. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital in the renewable energy industry, but they operate in different environments and specialties.

What is a virtual power plant operator?

A virtual power plant operator manages and coordinates a network of distributed energy resources, such as solar panels, batteries, and demand response assets, to optimize power generation and consumption. They use specialized software and monitoring tools to ensure efficient energy flow and grid stability, often working in a control room environment and requiring technical knowledge of energy systems. Certification in energy management or related fields can be beneficial for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa? For Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Virtual Power Plant Operator job openings:
Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs near you

CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA

Archer Daniels Midland

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$28.36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 359 rated logistics

Job description


CoGeneration Power Plant Operator - Cedar Rapids, IA
$1,500 Sign-on Bonus!*
Starting Pay Rate: $28.36
  • Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
  • Qualified Boiler Tech II Operator: $38.71 ($35.86 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
  • Qualified Boiler Tech I Operator: $42.20 ($39.65 + $2.55 Shift Differential)
Shift: 8-Hour Day Shift & 12-Hour rotating days/ nights (DuPont Schedule)
ADM is a part of the production of 30% of the food supply globally, on average you touch at least 7 items per day made with ADM ingredients. Everyone who works here is a big part of feeding the world. Learn more about ADM here: https://www.adm.com/.
Why Join?
  • Weekly Pay
  • Benefits Start Day 1
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Personal Days (Vacation & Sick Time Effective Day 1)
  • 9 Company Paid Holidays
  • 401k with up to 5% Company Match
  • Cash Balance Plan (Pension)
  • Annual Raises
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts & Health Savings Account
  • Company Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Plan
  • Company Paid Life Insurance & Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouse, & Children
  • Parental Leave Program
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Company provided work boots, uniforms, and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The CoGeneration Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of material handling systems, including Coal, Ash Silo, and Limestone Silo Systems. This role involves general maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring the desired safety, production, quality, and environmental standards are met.
Responsibilities:
  • Supports the unloading of coal and lime material by truck and rail and loading of ash trucks
  • Enters and verifies truck weights and data into computerized ADM Weigh Systems.
  • Operates motorized heavy equipment, including but not limited to rail locomotives, skid steer loader, and boom lifts.
  • Collects in-process samples at appropriate collection times, conducts laboratory testing, enters results to database, and analyzes results.
  • Follows and understands Equipment Specific Lockout Procedure (ESLP) to ensure safe and successful Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) of process equipment.
  • Executes daily Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure and maintain cleanliness throughout the plant and department.
  • Conducts routine maintenance checks, cleanings, troubleshooting, and basic preventive maintenance on process equipment.
  • Adheres to all safety regulations and partners with team members and plant leadership to foster a culture of safety for all individuals.
On the Job Requirements:
  • Ability to work independently with a high level of autonomy.
  • Possesses high degree of punctuality, work ethic, and reliability.
  • Able to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Able to communicate effectively with department operators and leadership.
  • Possesses strong attention to detail and high levels of quality of work.
  • Mechanical inclination and aptitude with ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues.
  • Proficiency in Windows computer operating system & related software.
Education & Experience Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED, required.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without Visa sponsorship.
  • Ability to understand and effectively communication in English (verbal & written).
  • Strong fundamental skills (math, reading, writing, & verbal communication).
  • Experience in industrial or mechanical manufacturing environment.
  • Experience operating heavy machinery and equipment.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Ability to move about on a work site by ascending/descending stairs, extensive walking, climbing steps or ladders, prolonged periods of standing and sitting, stooping, bending, kneeling, or squatting frequently
  • Ability to operate equipment or machinery that may be located at different heights with open view grating from multiple elevations or in confined spaces
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds overhead
  • Ability to traverse 2 miles or more during the course of a workday
  • Ambient conditions - Work area is, typically, a non-air-conditioned production environment. Working in extreme heat and cold in all seasonal elements, both indoors and outside on a regular basis.
  • Atmosphere: may come in contact with dust (Peanut - known allergen), corn, cotton, canola seed, chemicals, and odor
  • Must be able to work around vibrating equipment and noise levels that may reach or exceed 85 decibels and will require use of hearing protection for most of the work shift
  • Employees are required to wear all company provided PPE (i.e., hard-hats, safety glasses, earplugs, uniforms, and steel-toed boots) in addition to job specific PPE requirements (i.e., fall protection equipment and respirators)
*Sign On Bonus Eligibility: Eligibility for this bonus is subject to company policy. Former employees rehired within 12 months of their separation date are not eligible. The company reserves the right to modify or discontinue this bonus program at any time.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:111715BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay for this position is expected to be:

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