Power Plant Operators
Power plant operators control and maintain machinery that generates electricity for distribution to homes and businesses. They work at power generation facilities, monitoring equipment, adjusting controls, and performing routine maintenance to ensure reliable power production. The role includes operating auxiliary equipment that supports the main generators.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against power plant operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Power plant operators monitor control panels and gauges throughout their shifts, recording data and checking equipment performance. They perform routine maintenance tasks, test systems, and make adjustments to optimize efficiency. Operators may respond to alarms or equipment issues, troubleshoot problems, and document all activities. Work often involves rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, to maintain continuous facility operation.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on technical work with machinery and systems—the realistic side of the job. You prefer following established procedures and maintaining order, and you're comfortable working in structured environments where precision and adherence to protocol matter.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $102,440 | $131,620 | $152,110 | 430 |
| Nevada | $94,270 | $131,400 | $133,370 | 250 |
| New Jersey | $123,130 | $131,370 | $131,770 | 300 |
| Idaho | $102,590 | $124,440 | $130,070 | 310 |
| North Dakota | $115,210 | $122,160 | $122,160 | 150 |
| Hawaii | $113,890 | $121,700 | $122,900 | 290 |
| Tennessee | $105,370 | $115,920 | $124,360 | 490 |
| Maryland | $101,260 | $111,260 | $111,260 | 330 |
| Oregon | $99,070 | $109,830 | $129,790 | 250 |
| North Carolina | $80,240 | $108,300 | $118,600 | 420 |
| Georgia | $75,420 | $107,580 | $119,380 | 590 |
| Utah | $91,620 | $107,120 | $119,760 | 420 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified System Operator - Balancing, Interchange, and Transmission System Operator (BT) — North American Electric Reliability Corporation
- Certified System Operator - Reliability Coordinator System Operator (RC) — North American Electric Reliability Corporation
- Certified System Operator - Transmission System Operator (TO) — North American Electric Reliability Corporation
- Public Power Customer Service Manager (PPCSM) — American Public Power Association
- System Operator Certification (SOC) — North American Electric Reliability Corporation
- Public Power Manager (PPM) — American Public Power Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against power plant operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-8013.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.