How to Become a Power Plant Operators in Tennessee
Power Plant Operators in Tennessee earn a median salary of $107,380/year, which is 8% above the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a power plant operators takes home approximately $5,582/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a power plant operators can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a power plant operators in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Power Plant Operators positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many power plant operators positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for power plant operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 550 power plant operators. The highest concentrations are in Memphis and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Power Plant Operators salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $111K | $53.36/hr | 100 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $98K | $47.22/hr | 90 |
| Chattanooga | $98K | $47.22/hr | 80 |
| Knoxville | $98K | $47.22/hr | 110 |
Power Plant Operators salary range in Tennessee
Power Plant Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a power plant operators make in Tennessee?▼
The median power plant operators salary in Tennessee is $107,380 per year ($51.63/hr). This is 8% above the national median of $99,670. Salaries range from $65,930 to $117,120.
What are the requirements to become a power plant operators in Tennessee?▼
Power Plant Operators positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a power plant operators afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $107,380, a power plant operators in Tennessee would take home approximately $6,994/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for power plant operators in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for power plant operators in Tennessee are Memphis ($110,990), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($98,220), Chattanooga ($98,220). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for power plant operators?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means power plant operators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.