Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO
Xcel EnergyRole Overview
Xcel Energy is hiring a Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO. This is a full-time role in Steamboat Springs. posted 3 days ago. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.
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Job Description
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 or more Power Plant Operator (technical title Plant Specialist B 1st Year) in Hayden, Colorado at Hayden Station. Starting pay is $40.56 hourly.
Summary
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. 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.
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 recruiting@xcelenergy.com.
Bargaining
The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $40.56 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: 06/28/26
EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)
All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO position at Xcel Energy?
Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Xcel Energy. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.
Where is the Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO position at Xcel Energy located?
This position is based in Steamboat Springs. Xcel Energy has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.
What does a Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO at Xcel Energy earn?
Xcel Energy has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.
When was the Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO role at Xcel Energy posted?
This role was posted on June 10, 2026 (3 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.
Is the Power Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Hayden, CO role at Xcel Energy entry-level?
Yes. This is an entry-level position. Strong candidates typically have 0-2 years of relevant work experience, internships, or significant project work. Read the full description for any specific qualification requirements Xcel Energy has listed.
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