Power Plant Operator Trainee – Auxiliary Operator Career Path

Relevant experience may include plant operator, process operator, boiler operator, utilities operator, stationary engineer, production technician, wastewater operator, industrial maintenance technician, heavy-equipment operator, military power production, or other industrial operations. No prior power-plant experience required; paid power-plant training provided.

Pay

Starting range of $21–$24 per hour with overtime available. Career path progression:

• AO Trainee—Entry: $21–$22 (Orientation, safety, basic systems and supervised rounds)
• Junior AO—Developing: $22–$23 (Demonstrates defined system knowledge and operating tasks)
• Junior AO—Qualified: $23–$24 (Qualified to perform the complete AO role independently)
• Senior AO: $24–$27 (Advanced systems knowledge, proven performance and training capability)
• CRO Development: $30+ (Selected for control-room qualification)

Advancement timing depends on demonstrated qualification rather than tenure. Each trainee receives defined pay increases tied to major qualification milestones.

Schedule

Rotating 12-hour schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

Full benefits package provided.

Training & Development

Each trainee will receive:

• A written training checklist
• An assigned operator mentor
• Scheduled 30-, 60-, and 90-day reviews
• Monthly qualification progress reviews
• A clear description of requirements to advance toward CRO

Responsibilities

• Monitor, operate, and maintain plant and auxiliary equipment to ensure safe and reliable performance.
• Perform routine boiler chemistry sampling and make operational adjustments as directed.
• Handle chemicals and fuel safely, including receiving deliveries and material handling.
• Operate and maintain chemical pumping systems, water treatment systems, and fuel/dryer operations.
• Assist with preventive maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation systems.
• Perform Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) for equipment maintenance.
• Support emergency operations and respond quickly to plant issues.
• Conduct operational rounds and keep accurate logs.
• Work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed to support 24/7 plant operations.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work rotating shifts and periodic on-call duty.
• Capable of lifting 50 lbs., climbing ladders/stairs, working at heights, in confined spaces, and in varying temperatures.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical exam and drug screening; subject to random testing thereafter.
• Commitment to following all safety procedures and maintaining a clean work environment.

Qualifications

Knowledge: Boilers, turbines, dryers, combustion principles, steam production, and water treatment.

Skills: Mechanical/electrical aptitude, ability to read gauges/alarms, interpret piping and instrumentation diagrams, and perform minor maintenance.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Be part of a safety-first culture where your well-being comes first.
• Gain hands-on experience with a variety of plant systems and equipment.
• Work with a supportive team that values training, growth, and reliability.