What Does a Power Plant Operator Do?

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, but the bulk of the training happens on the job. That’s why this job is mentioned in our story about the fastest routes to a skilled trade job. 

Some employers prefer applicants who have previous military experience or who have earned a certificate at a technical school. Courses covered include mechanical skills, preventive maintenance, electricity basics (voltage and electricity flows) and fossil fuel theory. 

The reason for these limited requirements is that power plant operators get years of extensive on-the-job training before they are considered qualified. 

Continuing education is a must for operators, distributors and dispatchers to ensure safety and keep up with changing technology. 

Power plant jobs require a background check and drug and alcohol screenings. Some states require operators to be licensed as engineers or firefighters. 

Operators in roles directly linked to the power grid need to be certified through the North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s System Operator Certification Program.

Operators who work at nuclear power plants must earn a licensing credential. Learn more about nuclear technicians in our separate career page.

They work at utility companies and government agencies. Most power plant operators work full-time, often with rotating 8- or 12-hours shifts including nights, weekends and holidays to accommodate the constant need for electricity. These types of shifts are known to affect living and sleeping patterns, so taking on this role will require adjustments for you and your family.

According to those who hold this job or study people who do, yes. Check out this video from CareerWatch, which covers power plant operator salary trends and pros and cons. As the narrator notes, this is a highly specific job so the overall work force is small.

Successful power plant operators share these traits: 

• Strong problem-solving skills
• Detailed-oriented
• Highly organized
• Good communication skills but enjoy working independently 
• Sharp observational skills
• Mechanical aptitude
• Strong math skills