Power Plant Operators in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,520 | $99,670 | +5.9% vs US |
| State Rank | #11 of 51 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 2,390 jobs | 30,720 jobs | 7.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,320 | $29.48 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,630 | $37.32 |
| Median | $105,520 | $50.73 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,640 | $65.69 |
| 90th Percentile | $168,180 | $80.86 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Power Plant Operators in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $105,520 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +33.7%, power plant operators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can power plant operators increase their salary in California?
Power Plant Operators in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #11 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Power Plant Operators in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | $139,200 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $108,040 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $107,870 |
How are Power Plant Operators paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Power Plant Operators in California is $105,520, which is 5.9% above the national median of $99,670.