The Department of Corrections is focused on public safety through the custody and supervision of those in our care. Corrections employees have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others through careers in a variety of fields. Using cutting-edge research and evidence-based approaches, employees implement lasting change with a positive impact for the people of Wisconsin.

The Department of Corrections, Division of Adult Institutions is currently recruiting to fill Power Plant Operator Senior vacancies at the below locations:

Taycheedah Correctional Institution (Fond Du Lac)
Prairie du Chien Correctional Institution (Prarie du Chien)
Waupun Correctional Institution (Waupun)

This position operates the centralized power plant as the only employee on shift and is responsible for complete operation of a full range of equipment used in the generation of steam heat by high pressure gas fueled boilers; performs other maintenance duties as assigned.

Position perform duties such as:

• Adjust controls to provide correct operating level/conditions.
• Monitor control systems and watch for changes in pressures, temperatures, steam flow, air flow, water levels, etc.
• Take readings from charts, meters, gauges, etc., record information, maintain logs and records.
• Operate and service auxiliary equipment such as steam driven turbines, air compressors, boiler feed pumps, condensate pumps, condensate receiver storage, deaerating heater, make-up water system, chemical pumps, coal handling equipment, ash removal systems, over fire air, forced draft fans.
• Test water for chemical treatment, and adjust dosage of chemicals to maintain proper level.
• Maintain all power plant equipment.
• Clean power plant and equipment including; boilers, turbines, generators, switch gear, shop, equipment operating areas, and locker room.
• Use emergency Power Plant operation procedures.

This position is in pay schedule/range 03-15 with a starting pay rate of $25.60/hour, plus excellent benefits. Pay on appointment for current state employees may vary according to the applicable pay transaction provisions of the Compensations Plan, Wisconsin Administrative Code, and statutes. A twelve-month probationary period is required.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in the United States (i.e., a citizen or national of the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, an alien authorized to work in the U.S. without DOC sponsorship) at the time of application. The Department of Corrections will conduct criminal background checks on applicants prior to selection to determine whether the circumstances of any conviction may be related to the job being filled. Upon hire, all new DOC employees are subject to fingerprinting.

The Department of Corrections may conduct pre-employment drug screens. Any applicant who is offered employment in a position which requires a pre-employment drug screen must pass the screen as a contingency to employment. Applicants who fail or refuse the drug screen will not be given further consideration for employment.

All state employees must report their COVID vaccination status, whether vaccinated or not and provide supporting documentation if vaccinated. Newly hired employees will be required to submit this information within their first two weeks of employment.

The State of Wisconsin continues to follow necessary health and safety protocols for COVID. Please visit Division of Personnel Management Coronavirus - COVID-19 (wi.gov) for the most up-to-date information. Guidance may be subject to change.

1. Considerable knowledge of the operation of gas and oil operated high pressure water tube boilers, water pumps, steam turbines, pressure gauges, temperature gauges, flow meters, feed water heaters, diesel engines, reverse osmosis, and softeners.

2. Knowledge of electrical generators, electric control panels and electrical distribution.

3. Knowledge of water testing and water treatment.

4. Knowledge of power plant occupational hazards and safety precautions for high pressure power plant operation.

5. Ability to operate and make minor repairs and maintain all power plant equipment.

6. Considerable knowledge of the operation and use of safety devices and Personal Protective Equipment.

7. Skill in making repairs and adjustments on all power plant equipment.

8. The ability to accept training and constructive criticism in a mature manner and ability to get along with fellow employees.

9. Ability to operate all plant equipment in case of emergency.

10. Willingness and adaptability to work under unpleasant conditions such as: dust, dirt, and extreme temperatures.

11. Physical ability to perform manual labor, climb, bend, crawl, etc.

12. Knowledge of OSHA, DIHLR, DNR regulations pertaining to power plant operations and maintenance.

13. Work within a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. Work areas are occasionally noisy. Works in close physical proximity to persons in our care and other staff members.

To apply, click on “Apply for Job” to start the application process. Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application. Permanent classified employees who are eligible for consideration as a transfer or voluntary demotion must complete the application process in order to be considered.

Questions can be directed to Phia Vang, Human Resources Specialist at Phia.Vang@wisconsin.gov.

The State of Wisconsin is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer seeking a diverse and talented workforce.

Applications will be accepted until the needs of the Department have been met.