If you have people you travel with or don't mind rooming with, a lot of people stay at Bay Hill Marina. Nice place. Avoid the Best Western in Athens. Not very clean, unless things have changed recently. Most TVA people that travel stay at holiday Inn Express in Athens. Very nice, and if you are working nights, they have an evening cleaning crew 3 days a week. If you need anything, all you have to do is ask. They also have laundry service.
As for the plant, the people are great. Lots of work, few breaks. It will be what you make it. Stay flexible and you will have a great time. As I said, the people are great.