Power Plant Operators
What is a Power Plant Operator?
Power Plant Operators are vital professionals responsible for controlling and managing the systems that generate electricity. They oversee the daily operations of power plants, which can include nuclear, fossil fuel, and renewable energy facilities. These operators monitor various parameters and metrics, ensuring that the plant operates efficiently and safely within regulatory guidelines. They also evaluate equipment performance and respond to alarms and other indicators of problems. Their work is fundamental to maintaining a stable electrical supply, and it requires a blend of technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
Tasks
- Control generator output to match the phase, frequency, or voltage of electricity supplied to panels.
- Take regulatory action, based on readings from charts, meters and gauges, at established intervals.
- Control power generating equipment, including boilers, turbines, generators, or reactors, using control boards or semi-automatic equipment.
- Start or stop generators, auxiliary pumping equipment, turbines, or other power plant equipment as necessary.
- Monitor power plant equipment and indicators to detect evidence of operating problems.
Technology Skills
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Industrial control software
- Distributed control system DCS
- General Electric Mark VI Distributed Control System DCS
- Teknik Segala OSI Plant Information PI System
- Yokogawa FAST/TOOLS
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Analytical or scientific software
- Landfill gas analysis software
- Landtec System Software LFG Pro
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Data base user interface and query software
- Microsoft Access
- Operational Data Store ODS software
Tools Used
- Flowmeters
- Electrical control panels for generators
- Heat exchangers
- Air scrubbers
- Screwdrivers
Knowledge
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
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Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Skills
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Abilities
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Associate's degree
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Detailed Work Activities
- Operate energy production equipment.
- Adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
- Operate pumping systems or equipment.
- Maintain sustainable energy production equipment.
- Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$54080.0 - $123120.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.