Hydro Power Plant Operator - Durango, CO

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you’re looking for.

We are looking for one Hydro Power Plant Operator (technical title Plant Specialist B 1st Year) in Durango, Colorado at Tacoma Hydro Station. Starting pay is $40.56 hourly.

Summary Operates, inspects, monitors, and performs minor maintenance on Power Plant Equipment (turbines, auxiliary equipment, and other systems) as qualified and assigned. Actively participates in hands-on training, required classroom training, and computer interactive training programs to learn power plant operations. Will require the completion of all training requirements for a Plant Specialist B, including those specific to the plant at which the position is located. Performs equipment operational checks that include startup, shutdown, equipment tests, and operating adjustments. Responds to plant emergencies, unit upsets, and changing operating conditions. Assists and supports all Control Specialist, Maintenance Specialist, and/or Management as assigned. Isolates all potential power sources to achieve clearance in preparation for inspection, testing, or maintenance. Operates and performs maintenance on equipment and directs/trains others in performing these activities. Monitors and records operating conditions of equipment. Recognizes abnormal equipment operation and initiates trouble reports. Work will include an 12-hour shifts, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and require overtime.

Minimum Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent

Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams

Prefer post-secondary technical training in a related area

Must have valid driver's license

Prefer previous experience as an operator in a power plant and familiarity with power generation, but not required

Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test and security clearance

May have to drive off site to assist other plants, which may include using personal vehicle. Personal vehicle mileage will be reimbursed

Physical Requirements

Able to lift up to 50 pounds safely

Work in inclement weather

Must be qualified to wear all required PPE (including respirator qualified)

Will be required to perform duties when necessary from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces

Must be able to work overtime and various shifts as required

Environmental Exposure

Works around energized, rotating, vibrating, & automatic start equipment; confined spaces; heights; ladders & scaffolding; noise levels requiring hearing protection; presence of dust requiring use of respiratory protection

Outdoor work on uneven & wet surfaces, with temperatures ranging from -20 to above 100 degrees F

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you’re ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Bargaining

The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $40.56 to $54.16 per hour

This position is eligible for the following benefits: Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Vacation, Holidays, Personal Leave, Sick Time, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO)

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 08/11/26

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ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

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