Power House Mechanic

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Work Tasks

• Install, fix, and maintain equipment in power plants
• Take apart equipment and fix or replace parts
• Do tests to make sure the equipment works correctly
• Make special tools and replacement parts for equipment or order the parts from suppliers
• Work indoors in power plants for electric utility companies, the government, and manufacturing plants that produce electricity for their own use
• Work with machines and equipment in the power house, hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment

Salary, Size & Growth

• $60,000 average per year ($28.75 per hour)
• A small occupation (23,200 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.2% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year apprenticeship as a powerhouse mechanic
• Skills/Courses: Courses in mechanical drawing, math, blueprint reading, computers, and electronics
• Certification/Licensing: Welding certification may be required.