If you want a career with high pay and a stable work environment, this online Power Plant Operations course will get you on the right track. Now is an excellent time to start an exciting career as a power plant operator—there are thousands of power plants in the United States alone, and a large portion of the workforce is retiring, creating open power plant operator jobs for many years to come. Power plant operator training will prepare you to fill the ongoing need for entry-level positions in this industry.
This unique, user-friendly course is designed for people who have minimal knowledge of the industry, math, physics, or chemistry. The necessary science concepts are built into the course modules. Very few institutions provide power plant operator training and certification opportunities for entry-level operators, so your certificate from this course will give you an edge over others in the field.
After you complete this course, you will be fluent in how to operate a power plant with safety as the prime consideration. You'll be able to make adjustments to keep system process variables, such as flows, temperatures, and pressures, within acceptable ranges; detect both potential and actual problems and analyze operational trends as well as take corrective actions. You'll also learn important strategies to sustain communication with other operators, as well as maintenance and management.
Requirements:
Hardware Requirements:
- This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
Software Requirements:
- Windows 8 or newer.
- Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
- Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.
- Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Other:
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. You're encouraged to print the on-screen course material for your reference.
Prerequisites:
To enroll in this course, you should have basic keyboarding and computer skills, and be comfortable navigating the Internet and using email. You should have a high school diploma or the equivalent. This course is for you if you seek entry-level employment in a power plant.
Max Ansari is currently the Partner/Training Program Development Manager at Houston Industrial Training Institute (HITI), which focuses on development of web-based training programs for complex industrial processes such as power plants, oil refineries, and chemical manufacturing plants. His past experience includes 15 years of operational experience in a large refinery/power plant complex including three years as Manager of Operations. He holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, and is a certified Professional Engineer and First Class Steam Engineer.
Can I register for a course if I am an international student?
Yes, ed2go courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.
Does this course prepare for a certification?
No.
When can I start the course?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
How long does it take to complete this course?
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive twelve (12) months to complete the course.
What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
What kind of support will I receive?
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
What happens when I complete the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Am I guaranteed a job?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Can I get financial assistance?
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.
How can I get more information about this course?
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.
How do you become a power plant operator?
For those wondering how to become a power plant operator, a great first step is to sign up for a class to learn the basics. Completing a course shows motivation and desire to be the best, and gives you an advantage over other job seekers. Once you obtain an entry-level job, you'll get to show off your knowledge and skills, and work your way up to even better salary and benefits.
How much do you make working at a power plant?
Generally, power plant operators enter the workforce in entry-level positions and work their way up, sometimes to senior management positions. Depending on industry and location, entry-level power plant operator salaries can range from $13.00 to $20.00 per hour. After a few years of experience, generally the pay range is $18.00 to $30.00 per hour. Benefits are usually above-average for workers, and operators are rarely laid off.