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36 Consumers Energy Power Plant Operator Jobs Hiring Near You

Consumers Energy

Associate System Operator

Jackson, MI · On-site

Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to ... Within the first 12 months, the Associate System Operator is training to obtain a HVD or LVD ...

Consumers Energy

Sr Contracts Mgr

Jackson, MI · On-site

Experience with Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) Why should you join our team? At Consumers Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development ...

Consumers Energy

Prin Electrical Engineer

Jackson, MI · On-site

Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to ... Performing a wide range of engineering tasks by operating computer-assisted design or engineering ...

Consumers Energy

Sr Contracts Mgr

Jackson, MI

Experience with Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) Why should you join our team? At Consumers Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development ...

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Consumers Energy Jobs Information

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

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, operational procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring further technical training or certification. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) software, and safety protocols is critical for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top operators apart. These competencies are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of power in compliance with regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Power Plant Operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Power Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, responding to alarms quickly, and maintaining focus during long shifts, including nights and weekends. New hires can prepare by gaining a solid understanding of plant systems, actively participating in on-the-job training, and developing strong communication skills to coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams. Staying vigilant, adhering to safety protocols, and asking questions when unsure can help new operators adapt more efficiently to the demanding environment.

What are Power Plant Operators?

Power Plant Operators are professionals responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining the equipment that generates electric power in power plants. They ensure that the plant runs efficiently, safely, and within regulatory standards by adjusting controls, reading meters, and responding to abnormalities or emergencies. Their duties often include starting or stopping equipment, troubleshooting issues, and performing routine inspections and maintenance. Operators may work with a variety of energy sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, or renewable resources. This role requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.

What is the difference between Power Plant Operator vs Boiler Operator?

AspectPower Plant OperatorBoiler Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma; licensing or certification often requiredHigh school diploma; boiler operator license or certification often required
Work EnvironmentPower plants, generating electricity from various sourcesBoiler rooms, manufacturing plants, or power plants
Industry UsageElectricity generation, energy productionSteam generation, heating systems, industrial processes
Job FunctionsOperate and monitor power plant equipment to generate electricityOperate and maintain boilers to produce steam or heat

Both roles involve operating equipment in energy or industrial settings and require similar certifications. Power Plant Operators focus on electricity generation, while Boiler Operators primarily manage steam and heating systems. The choice depends on the specific industry and equipment involved.

What is it like to work at Consumers Energy?

Consumers Energy is a utility company that prioritizes a culture of safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and community involvement. The company operates with a diverse team of employees across various departments, including energy delivery, customer service, and environmental sustainability, working together to provide electricity and natural gas to over 1.8 million households in Michigan. Working at Consumers Energy may appeal to individuals who value a stable work environment, opportunities for professional growth and development, and the chance to contribute to a company that plays a critical role in powering Michigan's communities.

Do workers at Consumers Energy get paid breaks?

Yes. Most people get paid breaks.
79% of people say they get paid breaks.
Based on data from 42 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Does Consumers Energy pay people when they’re sick?

Yes. Most people get paid when they’re sick.
82% of people say they would get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 56 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

At Consumers Energy, are sick days and vacation days separate paid time off?

Sick days and vacation days are separate paid time off.
89% of people say they don’t have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 19 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and May 2026.

Is the health insurance from Consumers Energy affordable enough for their workers?

Most people say the health insurance costs are okay.
100% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 31 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between March 2025 and May 2026.

Do people get paid time off at Consumers Energy?

Most people get paid time off work.
87% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 23 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and May 2026.

How far ahead of time do people find out their work schedule?

Most people find out their schedule less than four weeks ahead of time.
  • 50% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts one week or less ahead of time.
  • 25% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts two weeks ahead of time.
  • 0% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts three weeks ahead of time.
  • 25% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts four weeks or more ahead of time.

Based on data from 12 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and November 2025.

Do workers at Consumers Energy worry about hours?

Most people don’t worry about getting enough hours.
90% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 40 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and February 2026.

Do Consumers Energy workers get to choose the shifts they work?

Some people don’t get to choose which shifts they work.
39% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 36 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and November 2025.

How easy is it for Consumers Energy workers to change shifts?

Most people find it easy to change shifts.
75% of people report that it’s easy to change shifts if they need to.
Based on data from 28 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and February 2026.

How easy is it to get time off at Consumers Energy?

Most people find it easy to get time off.
84% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do Consumers Energy managers change schedules at the last minute?

Most managers don’t change people’s schedules at the last minute.
90% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 42 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and February 2026.

Do workers at Consumers Energy do extra work that they don't get paid for?

Rarely. Most people don’t do unpaid extra work.
85% of people report that they don’t do extra unpaid work.
Based on data from 40 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and February 2026.

How easy is it to take sick days at Consumers Energy?

Most people find it easy to take sick days.
91% of people report that it’s easy to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 54 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Is working at Consumers Energy good if you’re a parent or caregiver?

Most parents and caregivers say this is a good place to work.
83% of people who care for a child or other relative report this is a good place to work.
Based on data from 24 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and February 2026.

Do people at Consumers Energy feel treated with respect by their managers?

Most people feel treated with respect by their managers.
88% of people say they’re treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 51 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do people at Consumers Energy get to take their breaks without interruption?

Most people get breaks without interruption.
79% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 48 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Is it stressful to work at Consumers Energy?

Some people feel stressed out here.
55% of people say they often feel stressed out at work.
Based on data from 53 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do people at Consumers Energy enjoy their jobs?

Most people enjoy their job.
90% of people report they enjoy their job.
Based on data from 48 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do people at Consumers Energy recommend working with their team?

Only some people recommend working with their team.
39% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 56 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do people get enough training when they start at Consumers Energy?

Most people got enough training when they started.
70% of people report they got enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 54 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do people get support to advance at Consumers Energy?

Most people are given support to advance their career here.
In the last year, 76% of people report being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 45 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do people think Consumers Energy’s headquarters understands what’s happening where they work?

Most people think headquarters doesn’t understand what’s happening where they work.
84% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 51 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and May 2026.

Do workers feel well informed about how Consumers Energy is doing?

Only some people feel well informed about how the company is doing.
53% of people feel that they aren’t kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 36 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and February 2026.
What other companies are hiring for Power Plant Operator jobs?
What are the most popular jobs at Consumers Energy?
What are the most popular categories at Consumers Energy?
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator job openings at Consumers Energy in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Manager, Plant Maintenance - NorthStar Clean Energy

Manager, Plant Maintenance - NorthStar Clean Energy

Consumers Energy

Grayling, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Consumers Energy rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated energy and utility

Job description

NorthStar Clean Energy decarbonizes the economy by providing clean energy and carbon management solutions to utility, municipal, commercial, and industrial customers enabling them to meet their sustainability and business goals. Additionally, we own and operate natural gas assets throughout the United States. To learn more about NorthStar Clean Energy, please visit www.northstarcleanenergy.com.
This position is with NorthStar Clean Energy, a CMS Energy company, and is not a position of employment with Consumers Energy.
The Grayling Generating Station plant is a 38 MW biomass-fueled renewable energy power plant that produces electricity. The fuel consists primarily of bark and sawdust from local lumber mills and the non-marketable biomass from lumbering operations. The power produced supports the health of the forests, mitigates greenhouse gases (is "carbon neutral"), conserves landfill space and supports the electric grid in northern Michigan. The electric output is sold pursuant to a long-term power purchase agreement with Consumers Energy Company. This facility can produce enough electricity to power approximately 38,000 homes. Commercial operation began in 1992.
We are seeking a highly skilled Maintenance Manager to lead all maintenance activities for our power plant operations. In this role, you will oversee the maintenance and repair of mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation/control systems to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant performance. As a key member of the leadership team, you will guide maintenance personnel, support hiring and development, and drive continuous improvement across the plant.
Key Responsibilities:
Maintenance Operations
  • Establish and manage preventative maintenance programs and schedules.
  • Oversee the repair and upkeep of electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation/control systems.
  • Coordinate emergency repairs and ensure timely completion of permanent solutions.
  • Maintain accurate maintenance records, logs, and work documentation.
  • Recommend equipment upgrades and improvements.

Leadership & Team Development
  • Train, coach, and evaluate maintenance staff to meet performance standards.
  • Oversee maintenance training programs to ensure skill development and compliance.
  • Assign responsibilities, schedule personnel, and optimize the use of team capabilities.
  • Support hiring decisions and lead team development initiatives.
  • Provide leadership and technical support to other departments.

Inventory & Vendor Management
  • Receive and evaluate contractor quotes and oversee work performed by external firms.
  • Manage the receipt, inspection, and storage of incoming equipment and materials.
  • Maintain adequate inventory of parts, tools, and supplies.
  • Manage the tool room and related processes.

Budgeting, Compliance & Reporting
  • Provide input to the plant operating budget related to maintenance activities.
  • Maintain awareness of applicable government regulations and ensure team compliance.
  • Develop and track maintenance team performance metrics and reports.
  • Prepare required reports and participate in scheduled meetings.

Safety & Work Environment
  • Promote a safe work environment through proactive job planning and hazard mitigation.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and administrative regulations.
  • Participate in training and pursue personal development goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong understanding of power plant maintenance and operations.
  • Working knowledge of chemistry related to plant operations, environmental programs, and water treatment.
  • Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, electrical one-lines, logic diagrams, and technical manuals.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions, including in emergencies.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and team facilitation skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Access).
  • Ability to manage changing priorities and work extended hours when needed.

Position Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or related field required with a minimum of seven (7) years' of applicable experience
    • [OR] Associate degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related field with a minimum of nine (9) years' of applicable experience
    • [OR] High School Diploma with a minimum of eleven (11) years of applicable experience
  • Minimum 4 years in supervisory or management capacity, or in a role involving oversight and delegation of project tasks.

Working Conditions:
  • The working conditions for this position may include, but are not limited to, the following requirements and environmental exposures. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The working conditions for this position may include climbing stairs; frequent walking; and the ability to sit or stand for extended periods. The role may require stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling, as well as lifting, moving, or carrying items up to 35 pounds. Employees must maintain close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus, and must remain alert throughout the workday. Effective communication is essential, along with regular use of computers and related technology. The position may involve exposure to atmospheric conditions such as dust, fumes, odors, gases, and other airborne particles. Work environments may include high noise areas, confined spaces, and elevated locations, as well as extreme internal or external temperatures, including prolonged exposure to the sun. The role may also involve exposure to mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and high/low pressure steam hazards, as well as high electrical voltage. Employees may be required to operate heavy or hazardous equipment and handle potentially hazardous chemicals while following established safety procedures.
    To support a safe and productive workplace, the Company may require a Fitness for Duty (FFD) evaluation to confirm an employee can safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. FFD testing will be used only in circumstances permitted by law and administered in a manner that is job related and consistent with business necessity.

Why should you join our team?
At NorthStar Clean Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development, growth, and stability, and we take pride in offering our co-workers excellent benefits and compensation packages. We are deliberately creating an inclusive culture that makes our diverse team of co-workers feel valued, supported, and empowered every day. We're a company made up of thousands of people, all with different stories to share and work to do, but we stand united in our company purpose: world class performance delivering hometown service.
What we offer:
  • Competitive compensation packages
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401k with company match
  • Paid parental leave
  • Up to 13 paid Holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Educational Assistance Program

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
We, at NorthStar Clean Energy, value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. It is part of our DNA. We treat our employees with respect, we treat each other fairly and we value the opinions of others. We are passionate about building and nurturing an environment where everyone feels included. We don't discriminate. We seek to learn about each other and better understand our unique differences. Our uniqueness makes us authentic. We create safe spaces where everyone can be who they truly are. We invite difficult conversations and uncomfortable topics. We value diverse perspectives; this is what makes us great together. We harbor an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to share their backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. Our Employee Resource Groups, Women's Advisory Panel (WAP), Women's in Energy (WE), Minority Advisory Panel (MAP), Pride Alliance of Consumers Energy (PACE), GENERGY, capable, Interfaith and Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP) are key enablers to living the values of our company culture: Caring, Empowered, Deliberate, Agility, and Ownership.
All qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

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