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Virtual Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calpine

Power Plant Operator

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$38.32 - $47.90/hr

Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states ... operating parameters. Performs a variety of plant maintenance tasks including diagnosis ...

Indeck Energy Services

Power Plant Operator

Oswego, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Indeck Energy Services is looking for an individual with combined cycle power plant experience to ... Since 1985, Indeck Energy has developed, financed, managed the construction, owned and operated ...

Vistra Corp.

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Vst

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Vistra Energy

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, MA

$43 - $49/hr

This position is located at our Bellingham Power Plant in Bellingham, MA. We offer amazing benefits ... Develops and implements plant operating procedures * Ensures strict adherence to safety, health and ...

Central Health

Power Plant Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

Overview The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain and adjust boilers, furnaces, engines ...

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All JobsVirtual Power Plant Operator Jobs

Virtual Power Plant Operator information

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$20

$44

$63

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

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual power plant operator in the United States is $44.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $58.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Power Plant Operator, and why are they important?

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 typically 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 operation, often working in a control room environment and requiring knowledge of energy systems and grid management. Certification in energy management or related fields can be beneficial for this role.

Are power plant operators in high demand?

Power plant operators, including those working in virtual power plants, are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for reliable energy management and grid stability. Employment opportunities depend on regional energy infrastructure and the growth of renewable energy sources, with specialized skills in control systems and safety protocols being valuable. Overall, the job market for power plant operators remains stable, with some growth expected as energy systems modernize.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

A Virtual Power Plant Operator typically does not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in executive, consulting, or specialized financial roles. High-paying jobs in energy or technology sectors may reach this level with experience, certifications, or in freelance/contract positions, but they are not standard for this role. Most daily wages for this position are significantly lower, often based on hourly rates or salaries rather than daily pay.

What is the easiest WFH job to get hired at?

A Virtual Power Plant Operator role can often be performed remotely and may require basic technical knowledge of energy systems and remote monitoring tools. Entry-level positions in this field typically have minimal experience requirements and may offer flexible schedules, making them accessible for remote job seekers.
More about Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Virtual Power Plant Operator job openings:
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Virtual Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 69% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,004 per year, or $44.7 per hour.
Power Plant Operator

Power Plant Operator

Calpine

Westbrook, ME • On-site

$38.32 - $47.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Calpine rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Calpine, a business unit of Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG), is America's largest generator of electricity from natural gas and geothermal resources with operations in competitive power markets. With 79 energy facilities in operation, Calpine’s fleet has the capacity to generate approximately 27,000 MW of electricity – enough to power approximately 27 million homes. Through wholesale power operations and its retail businesses, Calpine serves customers in 22 states and Canada. Its clean, efficient, modern and flexible fleet uses advanced technologies to generate power in a low-carbon and environmentally responsible manner.

The company was established on the premise that a strong commitment to the environment is inextricably linked to excellence in power generation and corporate responsibility. Since its founding in 1984, Calpine has led the power industry in its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. In addition, its renewable geothermal plants use steam generated deep below the earth's surface to produce clean, renewable electricity.

Job Summary (includes but is not limited to the following, other duties may be assigned)

Responsible for start, stop and monitoring of equipment including reading gauges and meters and recording activities in operating logs and records. Uses computers and monitoring equipment to measure, record and make adjustments within operating parameters.  Performs a variety of plant maintenance tasks including diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of mechanical and electrical equipment in a safe, efficient and economical manner. Performs overhaul maintenance and system improvement tasks. Performs chemical analysis and chemical control on steam, cooling, and condensate systems, and maintains chemistry logs. Incumbents assist in the development of standard operational procedures and provide input to plant betterment items to improve plant efficiency, reliability, and safety. Ensures compliance with all local, State and Federal regulations and plant procedures. Regularly required to maintain plan security, operate heavy equipment such as manlifts and forklifts, and handle and transfer bulk chemicals.

Job Responsibilities

  • Journey-level; specialized technical knowledge with function.
  • Performs a variety of technical service/support duties that are semi-routine in nature.
  • Routine and non-routine decisions with some latitude, but still subject to approval.
  • With limited guidance, prioritizes and executes responsibilities effectively for a single trade, group of related tasks or functional area.
  • Work periodically reviewed by others; work reflects solid performance of duties.
  • Errors have small and possibly incremental impact on department or facility and discovered in succeeding operations where work is verified or checked.
  • Completes tasks and resolves problems that require an ability to recognize deviation from accepted practices.
  • Resolves most questions and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher levels.
  • Completes tasks and resolves problems that require an ability to recognize deviation from accepted practices.
  • Resolves most questions and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher levels.

Job Requirements

  • High School Diploma, degree from technical/vocational school, military service or equivalent.
  • Journey-level; generally, 6 years directly related experience including understanding of health and safety regulations, and previous experience working with and around hazardous energy, chemicals and waste materials including knowledge of safe handling, storage, and transport.
  • Requires previous experience using test equipment and calibration appliances. Experience with machinery repair and control systems.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and basic understanding of chemistry, physics, electricity and mathematics.
  • Basic certifications/licensures. Valid state driver’s license. 
  • Must either hold a State of Maine Boiler or Stationary Engineer’s License, or have the qualifications to meet State Licensing Requirements

Salary Information

Hourly Rate Range - $38.32 to $47.90 /hour

Additional Calpine Information:

  • Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.
  • Calpine is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website or to apply for a position, please send an e-mail with your request to hrrecruitment@calpine.com. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation are made on case-by-case basis.

Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here

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