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Hydroelectric Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Hydroelectric Operator information

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$10

$21

$30

How much do hydroelectric operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric operator in Michigan is $21.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do hydroelectric operators make?

Hydroelectric operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the facility. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, technical skills, and overtime work in 24/7 operational environments.

How to get hired as a power plant operator?

To become a hydroelectric operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical schooling in power plant operations. Relevant skills include understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, safety procedures, and often obtaining certifications such as a state license or operator certification. Experience with control systems and a strong attention to safety are also important for employment in this field.

What is the difference between Hydroelectric Operator vs Hydropower Plant Technician?

AspectHydroelectric OperatorHydropower Plant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in plant operationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in electrical or mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentHydropower plant control rooms, outdoor dam sitesEquipment rooms, control panels, outdoor plant areas
Job FocusMonitoring plant operations, controlling turbines, ensuring safetyMaintaining and repairing equipment, troubleshooting technical issues
Industry UsageCommonly employed in hydroelectric power generation facilitiesFound in hydroelectric plants, focusing on technical maintenance

While both roles are essential in hydroelectric power generation, Hydroelectric Operators primarily oversee daily plant operations and safety, whereas Hydropower Plant Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing equipment. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

What is the highest salary for a plant operator?

Hydroelectric plant operators can earn high salaries, with the top earners making over $100,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand regions. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and level of responsibility, such as overseeing complex equipment and safety protocols.

What does a hydro plant operator do?

A hydroelectric plant operator monitors and controls the equipment that generates electricity from water flow. They perform inspections, adjust machinery, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the plant operates safely and efficiently, often working with control systems and following safety protocols. Certification and technical knowledge of turbines, generators, and control systems are typically required.
What are popular job titles related to Hydroelectric Operator jobs in Michigan? For Hydroelectric Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydroelectric Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Hydroelectric Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Hydroelectric Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Hydroelectric Operator job openings:
Hydroelectric Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 22% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, 70% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 91% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,337 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Regional Manager

Regional Manager

Eagle Creek Renewable Energy LLC

Menominee, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

About the role: The Regional Manager ("Supervisor") is responsible for managing the daily regional operations of their assigned facilities. The Supervisor directs the implementation of the Operating Plan and identifies those areas which may need improvement or further development. The Regional Manager assures that plant operating conditions are always kept within optimum limits. The Regional Manager must ensure that all work is performed in a safe manner resulting in no accidents, in compliance with all FERC licenses and environmental permits always. The Regional Manager must effectively communicate information to the Division Manager, fellow supervisors, and subordinate operation and maintenance personnel, relative to the condition of the plant equipment and performance and provide suggestions for plant improvement. The Regional Manager must ensure duties are performed in such a way as to result in an optimum cost-benefit ratio.
Why Eagle Creek?
  • A comprehensive benefits plan: Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, FSA, Commuter benefits, Voluntary Life, 401(k) match.
  • Eleven paid holidays per year, plus a competitive PTO schedule and time off to volunteer or give back to your community.
  • Access to a company-funded Employee Assistance Program.
  • Employee discounts through ADP LifeMart.
  • Tuition Reimbursement as well as access to trainings & mentors for Career Progression and Personal Development.
What you'll do:
  • Direct and supervise plant employees in the operation and maintenance of generating units to ensure continuing high reliability and safety. Evaluate performance of assigned tasks and responsibilities.
  • Provide support for Outage planning, scheduling, and contractor coordination.
  • Resolve plant problems including troubleshooting, repair, replacement, and root cause analysis.
  • Perform LOTO, create work orders & PM's.
  • Provide point contact for high voltage clearances Write, request & execute. Request, Write, and Execute High Voltage Clearance within ECRE's Power System.
  • Ensure that electrical outputs are maintained at maximum levels and efficiencies.
  • Provide supervision for power equipment repair and maintenance - critical equipment - generators, breakers, transformers.
  • Report normal, abnormal, or emergency plant conditions to the Division Manager. Take necessary corrective action in accordance with established policy or at the direction of the Division Manager.
  • Ensure compliance with all FERC and environmental regulatory requirements.
  • Oversee the training of all plant personnel and maintain the plant Training Manual and daily upkeep of necessary plant logs and records.
  • Maintain the plant Regional Policy Manuals and assure that policies and procedures are kept up to date.
  • Sustain the morale and motivation of operations personnel and handle employee concerns as they arise.
  • Support equipment operation through the implementation of preventive, predictive, scheduled, and corrective maintenance planning, and procedures.
  • Develop and maintain long range maintenance plans.
  • Provide technical support at assigned hydroelectric generating plant(s).
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Division Manager.
What skills & experience you'll need:
  • Associate's degree in mechanical engineering or electrical engineering or related field.
  • Strong knowledge of high, medium, and low voltage electrical distribution equipment.
  • Proficient computer technology skills, including ability to utilize company authorized software.
  • Positive & proactive attitude with ability to address issues and implement solutions as required; easily understands & follow directions
  • Detail & process oriented with strong problem resolution abilities.
  • A history of demonstrated maintenance supervisory/management experience is preferred and high level of competence with computerized maintenance management systems and other information systems.
  • The ability to plan work in advance and to properly assign and utilize subordinate personnel is essential.
  • Clear and effective verbal communication in all circumstances, including emergency situations.
  • Interpersonal skills are required in order to properly train and motivate people to engage in becoming key players and work toward establishing a world class maintenance organization.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to perform manual tasks including but not limited to:
    • The operation of hand and power tools and the ability to lift at least 50 lbs.
    • Being able to bend and maneuver in tight, cramped quarters.
    • Ability to work in hot, noisy, and dark environments, often alone and isolated.
    • Comfortability working at heights and around water.
    • Ability to work with and wear respiratory protection.
    • Reach with hands and arms above shoulder level and at shoulder level.
    • Walk, stand, stoop, kneel, and bend for prolonged periods of time.
    • Grip and manually manipulate, often in repetitive motion, items such as but not limited to hand tools and machine parts.
    • Read and identify labels, gauges, dials, and indicators typically encountered in performing job duties.
  • Possess clear and effective verbal communication in all circumstances, including emergency situations and giving/receiving instructions over a radio.

Eagle Creek Hydro Operations, LLC is an equal opportunity employer

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