Power Plant Operators
On the Job
Power Plant Operators monitor power plant equipment to watch for problems. They adjust controls to regulate the flow of power between generating stations and substations.
Typical Work Tasks
People who work in this career often:
- Operate energy distribution equipment.
- Operate energy production equipment.
- Operate pumping systems or equipment.
- Inspect sustainable energy production facilities or equipment.
- Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
- Monitor lubrication of equipment or workpieces.
- Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
- Exchange information with colleagues.
- Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.
Typical Working Conditions
- Wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, hard hats, or life jackets.
- Exposure to sounds or noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable.
- Exposure to hazardous conditions.
- Having face-to-face discussions.
- Working indoors in non-environmentally controlled conditions.
- Serious consequences if mistakes are made.
- The importance of being accurate or exact.
- Responsibility for others' health and safety.
- Working with a group or team.
- Using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
This page includes information from the O*NET 24.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Source: You can learn about our data sources in the About Us section.
