Explore Careers

Power Plant Mechanics

Manufacturing

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

Power Plant Mechanics work in equipment repair shops power plant stations or power-generating rooms aboard ships. Sometimes they work outdoors while repairing substation-generating equipment.

  • Military Status

    Enlisted

  • Average Military Salary

    $74,020

Overview

Powerhouse mechanics install, maintain, operate, and repair electrical and mechanical equipment in power-generating stations. They maintain various types of power-generating equipment on land, on ships, and on submarines. They also support the mobile utility equipment that the Military provides as portable, temporary sources of electricity.

Military Training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field and covers tactical and survival skills physical training military life and customs and weapons training. Power Plant Mechanics in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Principles of electricity
  • Gas and diesel engine theories
  • Hydraulic (fluid pressure) and pneumatic (air pressure) system maintenance
  • Performing electrical assessments
  • Generator and power plant operations
  • Electrical generation and distribution
  • Diesel generator operation disassembly inspection and maintenance

Helpful Attributes

  • Interest in nuclear power
  • Interest in repairing machines and equipment
  • Preference for doing physical work

Related Civilian Careers

  • Ship Engineers
  • Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
  • Construction and Building Inspectors
  • Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
  • Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation and Relay
  • Electricians
  • Boilermakers
  • Helpers--Installation, Maintenance and Repair Workers
  • Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
  • Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
  • Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers
  • Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
  • Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
  • Maintenance Workers, Machinery
  • Industrial Machinery Mechanics
  • Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
  • Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers and Repairers