Power plant operations

How to level it

1. 10
   Operator trainee Passed the EEI POSS aptitude test, hired as trainee

   Time1–6 months: test, interview, hire Cost$0–100 for practice tests Pay$37–116k depends on state Texas, apprentice listings~$37k ($18/hr)US average, trainee~$71k ($34/hr)California hydro, union$100–116k ($48–56/hr)

   • Search utility and power-producer job boards for "Plant Operator Trainee", "Operator in Training", "Apprentice Operator" or "Auxiliary Operator". Universities and hospitals with their own power plants hire too, usually for less.
   • Typical requirements: high-school diploma or GED and solid algebra. A 2-year power plant technology degree helps but is not required.
   • Most utilities screen with the EEI Plant Operator Selection System (POSS): about two hours of reading comprehension, mechanical concepts, math and spatial ability. Free practice tests are online; the mechanical section is where people fail.
   • Military engineering or nuclear experience (Navy especially) is the strongest shortcut in; plants recruit veterans directly.
2. 30
   Auxiliary operator Qualified on the plant systems as a field operator

   TimeAbout 1–2 years of on-the-job qualification Cost$0, the employer trains you Pay$62–102k depends on state US, lowest 10% of operatorsunder $62kUS median, all plant operators$102kCalifornia hydro, union operator$115–139k ($55–67/hr)

   • Field (auxiliary or outside) operators walk the plant: take readings, start and stop pumps, line up valves, and isolate equipment so maintenance can work on it safely.
   • Qualification is plant-specific: study one system at a time, walk it down with a qualified operator, then pass a checkout or oral board.
   • Rotating 8- or 12-hour shifts are standard. Shift differential and overtime add a lot on top of base pay.
   • Some states license boiler operators by class (Minnesota, for example). Check your state's boiler or stationary engineer board; the license also moves with you to other plants.

   Unlocks Power Plant Operator
3. 50
   Licensed engineerMembers How to prove it, how long it takes, cost and pay at this level
4. 65
   Control room operatorMembers How to prove it, how long it takes, cost and pay at this level
5. 80
   Nuclear reactor operatorMembers How to prove it, how long it takes, cost and pay at this level
6. 90
   Shift supervisorMembers How to prove it, how long it takes, cost and pay at this level

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