Power Plant Operator (1st or 2nd Class Power Engineer)

AB
On-site
Posted Oct 4, 2026
1 position

Opens an external site

Employment type: Full-time
Experience level: Lead · 10+ years
Minimum education: Professional degree
Apply by: Oct 31, 2026
Posting language: English
Working hours: 40 hours per week
Seniority: Mid-Senior level

Job summary

Lead operating personnel through normal, abnormal, and emergency conditions while monitoring and operating plant systems and equipment. Coordinate safe plant activities, troubleshoot operational issues, maintain accurate shift records, and mentor junior operators.

Job details

POWER PLANT OPERATOR (1ST OR 2ND CLASS POWER ENGINEER) WHO WE ARE Our Power, Your Possibilities At TransAlta, we don’t just generate electricity-we generate opportunity. As one of Canada’s largest publicly traded power generators, we’ve been powering communities for over 100 years across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Our diverse energy portfolio and passionate team are driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. We believe in the power of purpose, the strength of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. If you’re ready to make a real impact in a dynamic industry, you bring the energy - we’ll provide the platform. ABOUT THE ROLE We’re looking for a Power Plant Operator - 1st or 2nd Class Power Engineer to join our team at our Keephills Thermal Plant in Keephills, Alberta. In this role, you’ll play a key part in the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of plant equipment and systems while providing operational leadership on shift. This is a full-time, safety sensitive position based at our Keephills Thermal Plant, located 70 kilometers west of Edmonton, Alberta. Successful completion of pre-employment testing is a condition of employment. This is a union position, covered under the terms of the Collective Agreement with the IBEW, Local 254. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Power Engineer who enjoys hands-on operations, solving complex plant issues, supporting safe and reliable generation, and helping develop the next generation of operators. A DAY IN THE LIFE Providing leadership and guidance to operating personnel during normal, abnormal, and emergency operating conditions. Monitoring and operating boilers, turbines, generators, water treatment systems, balance-of-plant equipment, and auxiliary systems. Supporting safe and efficient startup, shutdown, commissioning, outage, and return-to-service activities. Troubleshooting operational issues and recommending improvements that support reliability, availability, and plant performance. Coordinating daily operating activities with maintenance, engineering, contractors, and leadership teams. Reviewing and supporting permits, isolation plans, lockout/tagout requirements, field inspections, and hazard assessments. Maintaining accurate operational logs, reports, and shift turnover documentation. Mentoring, coaching, and supporting the development of Power Plant Operators and junior team members. ABOUT YOU Valid Alberta 1st or 2nd Class Power Engineering Certificate. Minimum 8 to 10 years of power generation or large industrial plant operating experience. Strong knowledge of thermal power generation systems, plant equipment, and operating procedures. Experience with plant safety programs, permit-to-work systems, lockout/tagout practices, regulatory requirements, and permit office. Demonstrated leadership, sound judgment, and strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency with computer systems and experience using distributed control systems, DCS, and control room operations in a power generation or large industrial environment. Experience in coal, natural gas, combined-cycle generation, repowering projects, outage planning, or shift leadership would be considered an asset. THE PERKS Competitive wages Company-matching pension plan Flexible health benefits for you and your family Generous vacation and personal days Learning and development programs Employee recognition and rewards Annual wellness allowance Explore our Careers site to see how we support your growth and wellbeing www.transalta.com/careers. OUR CULTURE At TransAlta, we’re driven by a Culture of Results, Learning, and Purpose. We prioritize psychological safety, wellbeing, inclusion, and belonging - creating a space where everyone can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress, and we’re committed to building a workplace where you can be your authentic self. Ready to Power Up With Us? Excited about this role but don’t meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. You might just be the candidate we are looking for. WHAT TO EXPECT The successful candidate may be required to complete background checks appropriate to the role and may include criminal record, education and employment verification or credit checks. ‘Safety sensitive positions’ will be required to complete pre-employment testing. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those progressing will be contacted.

What you’ll do

Requirements

Requires a valid Alberta 1st or 2nd Class Power Engineering Certificate and at least 8 to 10 years of power generation or large industrial plant operating experience. Candidates should have strong knowledge of thermal generation, plant safety and operating procedures, DCS and control room operations, and demonstrated leadership and troubleshooting abilities.