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What does a Power Plant Engineer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A power plant engineer is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the plant's equipment and systems. They work with other engineers and technicians to ensure that the plant runs smoothly and efficiently.

Power Plant Engineer job duties include:

  • Overseeing the operation of a power plant
  • Ensuring that the power plant runs smoothly and efficiently
  • Conducting regular maintenance and repairs on the plant
  • Monitoring the plant’s equipment and systems
  • Adjusting controls to generate the desired output of electricity
  • Troubleshooting problems with the plant’s equipment or systems
  • Coordinating with other engineers and technicians on projects or repairs
  • Writing reports or proposals related to the power plant
  • Providing training or guidance to new power plant employees

Power Plant Engineer Job Requirements

A Power Plant Engineer is responsible for the operation and maintenance of power plant equipment. They must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, and many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree. Power Plant Engineers must be licensed Professional Engineers (PEs). Some states require PEs to take continuing education courses to maintain their license. Power Plant Engineers typically have 5-10 years of experience working in the power industry.

Power Plant Engineer Skills

  • Power plant operation
  • Power plant maintenance
  • Boiler operation
  • Boiler maintenance
  • Turbine operation
  • Turbine maintenance
  • Generator operation
  • Generator maintenance
  • Electrical distribution
  • PLC programming
  • SCADA systems
  • HVAC

Related: Top Power Plant Engineer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Power Plant Engineer

A Power Plant Engineer is responsible for the operation and maintenance of power plants. They typically work in the electric utility industry, but may also work in the oil and gas, or renewable energy industries.

To become a Power Plant Engineer, you will need to have a bachelor's degree in engineering, preferably in electrical engineering. You will also need to have several years of experience working in the power plant industry. In some cases, a master's degree or higher may be required.

Power Plant Engineers must be able to understand and use complex engineering software and equipment. They must also be able to troubleshoot problems and develop solutions. They must have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with other engineers, technicians, and plant personnel.

Related: Power Plant Engineer Resume Example

Related: Power Plant Engineer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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