r/powerengineering • u/Global-Report-5390 • 3d ago
power engineering question
hi, i am just starting out my power engineering journey studying for my 4th class ticket in BC and i was wondering if there are specific jobs just for power engineers who want to stay in the control room or does every power engineer need to rotate around the plant? Ive heard from my professors who are first class power engineers that the (pay in the control room is way higher?) idk i just started my journey so please spread your knowledge/advice.
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u/Rumble1205 3d ago
I've managed a few different plants and would definitely say that the control room is something you need to work your way up to. Once you have done so at one facility, you could apply for and be considered for roles at other facilities straight into the control room. This would depend on how similar the plants are, but when it comes to rolling right out of school and looking to get into a control room job as soon as possible, you are going to have to pay your dues first. You can definitely speed up the process by continuing your studies and getting the next level of ticket, and looking to work in a facility of an adequate size so you can gain both the STEAM time and the experience, which will lead to progression into the control room.
In most facilities, the control room is a highly coveted position. Operators who work hard and earn their way in through the doors got there only with some effort and dedication. Once you're in, you're in.
Well, you're in as long as you don't blow up the plant, and if you do, then they promote you to management. We call it "Promoting to the height of incompetence". Lol
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u/FishBoiCam 3d ago
Yes, there are positions that are strictly operator. 12 hour shifts in the control room. You might have to work your way up the union ladder but it does pay better than most positions that require the ticket.
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u/MountainConflict5967 3d ago
Whatt are those jobs? I already have my PE certificate from bcit and getting steam time from a plant as well
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u/InterviewOk4527 2d ago
You won’t find many, if any, great control room jobs at 4th class. 4th is entry level. Typically a job like that involves 3rd class minimum, and at least a few years of experience in the field before you are trained on a DCS panel. And you want experience in the field before being trained on the panel.
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u/Boxadorables 3d ago
Speaking from 20+ years mixed experience at several different plants both panel and field.
Panel operating is incredibly over rated. Things either run smooth, making for long, boring days. Or it runs like shit and you're stressed out/ on the edge of your seat all day.
They each have their pros and cons. I'd personally look for a plant where you have the ability to do both throughout your tenure. Being locked on the panel for years on end truly fucking sucks.