Plant Operator (Entry-level) - Keenesburg, CO

Xcel Energy; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 55,875; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Pharmacy Plan

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance

Tuition reimbursement

401(k) plan

Sick Time

Job summary

A leading energy company is seeking an entry-level Plant Operator in Keenesburg, CO. This role involves operating and maintaining power plant equipment, ensuring safety and performance standards. Candidates should have a high school diploma, valid driver's license, and preferably pass power plant selection exams. The position offers an hourly wage of $40.56 and includes comprehensive benefits. Join a company committed to providing energy solutions and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams.
• Prefer previous experience as an operator in a power plant.
• Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements.

Responsibilities

• Operates, inspects, and performs maintenance on power plant equipment.
• Participates in hands-on training and classroom training for power plant operations.
• Monitors and records operating conditions of equipment.

Skills

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Valid driver's license

Familiarity with power generation

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary technical training in a related area

Job description

Plant Operator (Entry‑level) - Keenesburg, 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 Plant Specialist B 1st Year in Keenesburg, Colorado at Rocky Mountain Energy Center. 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 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 [e-mail].

Benefit Information

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: 01/27/26

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