Become a Senior Power Plant Operator: A Key Role with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Are you an expert in hydroelectric power generation looking to make a meaningful impact? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently recruiting a Senior Power Plant Operator (TC-K) for the Willamette Valley Project in Lowell, Oregon. This is a rare opportunity to join one of the nation’s premier engineering agencies, contributing to the stability of our national infrastructure.

Job Responsibilities

As a Senior Power Plant Operator, you will be the primary authority on shift. Your core responsibilities include:

System Control: Coordinating the operation of eight power generating units, including remotely controlled stations.
Operational Leadership: Assigning duties to operators, issuing instructions, and ensuring all safety protocols are followed.
Clearance Management: Overseeing the issuance and release of clearance and caution orders to keep personnel and equipment safe.
Emergency Response: Exercising technical judgment during power system emergencies to protect infrastructure and restore normal operations.
Training: Mentoring trainees and journeymen on proper operational techniques and safety compliance.

Requirements

You must demonstrate a high level of operational proficiency. Key requirements include:

Screen-Out Element: You must be able to perform duties without more than normal supervision.
Experience: Ability to operate within a 100-megawatt capacity plant.
Medical Standards: Candidates must be able to complete all occupational health requirements, including pulmonary capacity testing.
Physical Stamina: The role involves climbing, lifting equipment (up to 75 lbs), and working in varied environmental conditions.

Comparison: Operator Responsibilities

Feature	Journey-Level Operator	Senior Power Plant Operator
Scope	Assists in daily tasks	Directs operational functions
Supervision	Operates under guidance	Acts as the senior shift lead
Safety	Follows standard protocols	Authorizes all clearance orders
Training	Learns techniques	Mentors other operators

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive compensation of $76.84 per hour. In addition to your salary, you may be eligible for:

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) support.
Recruitment or relocation incentives (if applicable).
Comprehensive federal benefits, including retirement, health insurance, and paid leave.

Application Tips for Success

Federal hiring is highly competitive. To maximize your chances:

Strict Resume Formatting: Your resume must be two pages or less. Over-length resumes will be rejected.
Detail Your Skills: Clearly state your experience with voltage adjustment, generator operations, and hazardous energy isolation.
Stay Organized: Ensure all supporting documents, such as performance appraisals or certifications, are sanitized and ready for upload.

If you possess the technical expertise to manage critical power infrastructure and want to serve the American people, apply for the Senior Power Plant Operator position today. The application period closes on July 6, 2026. Ensure your documentation is complete and start your next professional chapter with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Why This Senior Power Plant Operator (Tc-K) Job Matters

Take charge of hydroelectric power systems in the Pacific Northwest with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Senior Power Plant Operator (Tc-K) Job Overview

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled Senior Power Plant Operator to manage hydroelectric operations within the Portland District's Willamette Valley Project. In this role, you will be the lead operator on shift, overseeing eight generating units and performing critical technical duties to ensure the efficient production of power and management of flood control structures. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with complex infrastructure in a vital, mission-driven environment.

Requirements for Senior Power Plant Operator (Tc-K)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Ability to perform Senior Power Plant Operator duties with minimal supervision in a 100MW+ capacity plant.
Experience in starting/stopping generators, voltage adjustment, switching, and isolation of hazardous energy.
Ability to train and mentor journey-level operators and trainees.
Must pass pre-employment medical examinations, including pulmonary capacity testing.
Must be able to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators and hard hats.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including climbing, lifting up to 75 lbs, and operating heavy valves.

Preferred Qualifications for Senior Power Plant Operator (Tc-K)

Proven experience as a lone operator during night and weekend shifts.
Expertise in managing remotely operated power units and flood control structures.
Demonstrated ability to make sound professional judgments during emergency equipment or power failure scenarios.
Strong communication skills for effective team coordination and instructional leadership.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly compensation.
✓Relocation expense reimbursement authorization (Permanent Change of Station).
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on agency needs.
✓Access to comprehensive Federal employee benefits packages.
✓Opportunity for career growth within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
✓Meaningful work contributing to national security and environmental sustainability.

💡 How to Apply Senior Power Plant Operator (Tc-K) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Senior Power Plant Operator (Tc-K) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages or less.
Ensure your resume includes detailed descriptions of relevant experience, including dates, hours worked, and specific technical duties.
Complete the online questionnaire as prompted by the application portal.
Upload all required supporting documentation, including transcripts if education is a qualifying factor.
Submit your application package by the closing date of July 6, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise; any document exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
Use plain, clear language and avoid obscure acronyms.
Explicitly detail your work experience to ensure the hiring manager can verify you meet the 'Screen Out' elements.
Verify that your uploaded documents have finished the mandatory virus scan before concluding your session.
Double-check your application status in the USAJOBS dashboard to confirm successful submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the work environment like for this position?

The role involves a mix of indoor work in control rooms and outdoor work in varying climate conditions. You will often work with high-voltage equipment and machinery, necessitating strict adherence to safety protocols.

Is a security clearance required?

No security clearance is required, though the position is designated as Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS) with a Moderate Risk level, requiring a background suitability assessment.

Is there potential for career advancement?

While this specific role does not have automatic promotion potential, the USACE offers numerous pathways for advancement across its national network.

What is the work schedule like?

You will work a rotating shift schedule that may include holidays, nights, and weekends. You may occasionally serve as the lone operator on duty.

Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is renowned for providing effective engineering and environmental solutions for the nation. Consistently ranking as a top-tier large federal agency, the USACE offers a collaborative, mission-focused environment. By joining the Portland District, you become part of a team responsible for managing vital hydroelectric assets that support the regional economy and environmental health.