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Hydro Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to providing world ... Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to providing world ... Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

The purpose of the Power Plant Operator is to support the overall operation of the hydro-electric power plant and the associated water intakes to maximize the reliability and efficiency of the ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and ... Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation ...

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different ... Drill, Hydro-Vac, Excavator, etc. * Responsible to read locate paint or locate flags of utility ...

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different ... Drill, Hydro-Vac, Excavator, etc. * Responsible to read locate paint or locate flags of utility ...

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different ... Drill, Hydro-Vac, Excavator, etc. * Responsible to read locate paint or locate flags of utility ...

Drain Technicians & Jetter Operators Waterford & Clinton Township Locations Available Universal ... If you have experience in: • Drain cleaning • Hydro jetting • Sewer diagnostics • Camera ...

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Hydro Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$18

$39

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Michigan is $18.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hydro Operator vs Water Treatment Operator?

AspectHydro OperatorWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsHydropower plant certifications, safety trainingWater treatment certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentHydropower plants, dams, hydroelectric facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Industry UsageEnergy, utilities, renewable resourcesPublic health, municipal services, environmental management

While both roles involve operating water-related systems, a Hydro Operator primarily manages hydroelectric power facilities, focusing on energy production and dam operations. In contrast, a Water Treatment Operator handles water purification processes for municipal or industrial water supplies. Both roles require safety certifications and technical skills but serve different industry needs and environments.

What is the highest paying operator job?

The highest paying operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as offshore oil and gas platform operators, nuclear power plant operators, or industrial plant operators with advanced certifications. These roles typically require extensive experience, technical skills, and sometimes hazardous environment training, leading to higher salaries compared to standard operator positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Hydro Operators in their daily work?

Hydro Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to changes in water flow and demand, troubleshooting mechanical or electrical issues with turbines and generators, and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. They must remain vigilant to ensure the safe and efficient operation of hydroelectric equipment, especially during periods of extreme weather or peak energy demand. Collaborating effectively with maintenance teams and control room staff is essential to address unexpected issues and prevent downtime.

What Is the Job of a Hydro Operator?

A hydro or hydro-vac operator performs non-destructive excavation around sensitive components, such as utility cables and pipelines. In this career, your duties are to excavate using high pressure water blasting equipment and excavate debris using a special vacuum. Your responsibilities as a hydro operator also include maintaining paperwork to document your hydro-vac jobs, conducting regular inspections of your truck and vacuum, and performing routine maintenance and any needed repairs on your hydro-vac equipment. You must be safety conscious to avoid injury to yourself or others, as the equipment you operate can be dangerous.

How to become a hydroelectric operator?

To become a hydroelectric operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in fields like electrical, mechanical, or industrial technology. Relevant experience in power plant operations, knowledge of control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are often required; some positions may also require a state license or certification. On-the-job training is common, and strong problem-solving skills are essential for maintaining and operating hydroelectric equipment safely and efficiently.

What are Hydro Operators?

Hydro Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of hydroelectric power plants. They manage the flow of water through turbines to generate electricity efficiently and safely, making adjustments based on demand and environmental conditions. Hydro Operators also perform regular inspections, maintain equipment, and respond to emergencies or system malfunctions to ensure continuous and reliable power generation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydro Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydro Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, knowledge of power plant operations, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, turbine controls, and regulatory compliance software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the reliable and safe operation of hydroelectric plants, supporting energy production and environmental standards.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Hydro operators can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industrial or energy sectors. These roles often require technical skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership, but they do not always require a college degree. High-paying positions in skilled trades or specialized fields may also reach this income level without a degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Hydro Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily pay is usually associated with specialized roles like offshore drilling managers, senior engineers, or consultants in high-demand industries. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, and working in challenging environments, and they may involve long shifts or offshore work.
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in Michigan? For Hydro Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in MI? For Hydro Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 49% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,728 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
CDL Hydro Excavation Operator

CDL Hydro Excavation Operator

GFL Environmental

Byron Center, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


GFL Environmental rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 72 rated recycling and waste


Job description


Summary:
The Hydrovac Operator is involved in all aspects of successful completion of hydro excavation projects. This position will assist customers with potholing, daylighting, slot trenching, removing debris, exposing utilities, and repairing pipes. Due to the type of work we perform, working
safely and efficiently is a top priority in every job.

At GFL our goal is to invest in our people and provide opportunities to grow for life! Our employees are affectionately known as team green, a name that unites us all under our shared purpose of providing sustainable solutions to enable our customers and communities to be GREEN FOR LIFE!

  • 3 weeks PTO annually

  • 4 medical plan options including an HSA with employer contribution & match program, dental, and vision coverage.

  • 401(k) with an employer match

  • Paid holidays

  • Employee Assistance Program with free counseling services.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Be proficient with truck, trailer and other equipment being operated

  • Perform pre- and post-trip inspections and ensure all equipment is in proper working condition prior to departure

  • Operate Hydrovac truck, trailer and other equipment in a safe and professional manner while ensuring the truck and components are always in good working condition

  • Set up and inspect ground and/or bonding procedures

  • Locate, trench, dig, clean, and/or collecting material

  • Monitor the amount of debris extracted and the amount lawfully allowed to haul

  • Work with remote hose for jobs located outside of the trucks reach

  • Use hand tools and other equipment as needed

  • Abide by and enforce company and site contactor's safety regulations at all locations

  • Attend all safety and other company meetings

  • General cleanup of truck, trailer, and other equipment on a daily basis

  • Complete company paperwork accurately and timely

  • Show up on time and be prepared to work

  • Other duties as assigned

Work Environment

  • Working in a variety of weather conditions year-round

  • Performing physical labor, including lifting up to 50 pounds

  • Overtime as required, occasional nights and weekends

  • Rotating on-call weekends

  • Flexibility to work with other divisions within the company as needed

  • Wearing required PPE while working and on site

  • Full-time position with room for advancement

Requirements

  • Valid CDL B (minimum) with tank endorsement and a clean driving record

  • Willing to learn and take directions

  • Pass pre-employment background check and drug test

  • Ability to prioritize and work safely in a fast-paced environment to meet deadlines with

  • minimal supervision

  • Provide above excellent customer service while being professional and respectful when

  • dealing with clients and co-workers

#GFLTalent


We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contactmyworkdayrecruitment@gflenv.com
Please note that GFL does not provide visa sponsorship
for this position. Valid work authorization in the country where the job is located is required.Successful candidates will be required to provide valid documentation confirming their eligibility to work in the country where the job is located prior to their start date.


This hiring process may utilize machine-based systems to assist in screening and assessing applicants. Final selection decisions are made by our recruitment team.



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