Power Plant Operator; Entry-level - Hayden

Position Overview

Operates, inspects, monitors, and performs minor maintenance on Power Plant Equipment (boilers, 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. 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. The position is at Hayden Station, Hayden, Colorado and starts at $40.56 per hour.

• Operate, inspect, monitor, and perform minor maintenance on power plant equipment.
• Participate in hands‑on, classroom, and interactive computer training.
• Perform equipment operational checks including startup, shutdown, equipment tests, and operating adjustments.
• Respond to plant emergencies, unit upsets, and changing operating conditions.
• Assist and support all Control Specialists, Maintenance Specialists, and/or Management as assigned.
• Isolate all potential power sources to achieve clearance before inspection, testing, or maintenance.
• Operate and perform maintenance on equipment and direct/train others as required.
• Monitor and record operating conditions of equipment.
• Recognize abnormal equipment operation and initiate trouble reports.

12‑hour shifts, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime.

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams.
• Prefer post‑secondary technical training in a related area.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Prefer previous experience as an operator in a power plant.
• Must successfully pass Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test and security clearance.
• May need to drive off‑site; personal vehicle mileage will be reimbursed.

• Lift up to 50 pounds safely and work in inclement weather.
• Qualified to wear all required PPE (including respirator).
• Perform duties from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces.
• Work overtime and various shifts as required.
• Exposure to energized, rotating, vibrating, and automatic start equipment; confined spaces; heights; ladders and scaffolding; noise levels requiring hearing protection; dust requiring respiratory protection.
• Outdoor work on uneven and wet surfaces, with temperatures ranging from
  -20 to above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at

• Medical/Pharmacy Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• Life Insurance
• Health Care Reimbursement Account
• Health Savings Account (if enrolled)
• Limited‑Purpose FSA (if enrolled)
• Long‑term Disability (LTD)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program
• Pension
• 401(k) Plan
• Vacation
• Holidays
• Personal Leave
• Sick Time
• Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO)