1

Operating Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Must have extensive experience operating and programming CNC Lathes. * Live Tooling: Proven experience working with live tooling is a requirement for this position. * Software Proficiency: Experience ...

Be Seen First

Must have extensive experience operating and programming CNC Lathes. * Live Tooling: Proven experience working with live tooling is a requirement for this position. * Software Proficiency: Experience ...

... operating/programming a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and various other measurement equipment in an automotive manufacturing plant. The work requires practical skill and knowledge as a CMM ...

Be Seen First

CNC Mill Operator / Programmer (2nd Shift) Company: Streamline Machine Source Inc. Location: Greenville, Michigan Shift: 2nd Shift Pay Range: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour (Based on experience) Role ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI · On-site

$63.80K - $86.20K/yr

Reactor Operator * Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer * Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor OR * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor ...

Be Seen First

CNC Mill Operator / Programmer (2nd Shift) Company: Streamline Machine Source Inc. Location: Greenville, Michigan Shift: 2nd Shift Pay Range: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour (Based on experience) Role ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI

$63.80K - $86.20K/yr

Reactor Operator * Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer * Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor OR * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$31.4K

$74.1K

$117.7K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Michigan is $74,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,600.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Engineer, you need expertise in operating, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, often backed by a high school diploma, technical training, and relevant licenses or certifications. Familiarity with control systems, heavy equipment, and safety protocols—such as OSHA standards—is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and help maintain a secure work environment.

What are some common challenges Operating Engineers face when managing multiple pieces of equipment on a job site?

Operating Engineers often juggle the operation and maintenance of several types of heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, which requires strong multitasking and organizational skills. A common challenge is coordinating equipment use efficiently to avoid downtime and bottlenecks, particularly on busy construction sites with tight schedules. Additionally, they must remain vigilant about safety protocols and equipment inspections to prevent accidents or mechanical failures. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure a smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.

What are Operating Engineers?

Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, commonly used on construction sites and in other industrial settings. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of this equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and sometimes assisting with repairs. Operating Engineers play a critical role in the successful completion of construction and infrastructure projects by helping move materials, clear land, and perform tasks that require mechanical power.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOSHA certifications, state licenses, technical trainingOSHA certifications, technical/vocational training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, large facilitiesBuildings, manufacturing plants, facilities maintenance
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utilities, manufacturingFacilities management, manufacturing, commercial buildings

Operating Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often share certifications and work in industrial or large facility environments. Operating Engineers focus on operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment, while Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and preventive maintenance of building systems. Both roles are essential for facility operations, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in MI? For Operating Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,110 per year, or $35.6 per hour.
3rd Shift Tube Laser Operator/Programmer

3rd Shift Tube Laser Operator/Programmer

Impact Fab

Holland, MI

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Are you a Tube Laser Operator/Programmer looking for a new opportunity on 3rd Shift? Do you enjoy a custom fabrication environment where no two jobs are the same and your skills directly impact quality and throughput? In this role, you can make an immediate impact in a fast-paced, growing West Michigan company.


If this sounds like you, Impact Fab could be a great fit. We are seeking a 3rd Shift Tube Laser Operator/Programmer to join our team.
Work Schedule: 8 pm-6:30 am, Monday-Thursday night


Responsibilities Include:
Program, set up, and operate tube laser equipment
Create and optimize laser programs from prints and CAD files
Load raw material and unload finished parts
Inspect parts to ensure conformance to specifications
Read and interpret blueprints and job travelers
Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on tube laser equipment
Work closely with engineering, fabrication, and welding teams
Make necessary machine adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency
We are looking for someone with:
High School diploma or equivalent
Minimum of 2-3 years of experience operating and programming tube laser equipment
Strong blueprint reading and measurement skills
Experience with CAD/CAM software preferred
High attention to detail and strong work ethic
Dependability and a team-first mindset
Willingness to learn and grow in a custom fabrication environment
Benefits of working at Impact Fab:
Affordable Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
Short- and Long-Term Disability
Paid Vacation
401(k) with 6% company match
Air-conditioned, clean facility
Family-owned, team-oriented business
Seldom work Saturdays; weekly overtime common (45 hours)
Yearly bonuses
Impact Fab is a custom fabrication shop located in Holland, Michigan. We specialize in short-run production, machine builds, and part prototyping. Our commitment to quality service, quality parts, and genuine respect has earned us the loyalty of our customers and a strong reputation in the design-for-manufacturing market.
If this sounds like a position for you-and we are the kind of company you see yourself growing with-apply today for immediate consideration.


To learn more about our organization, visit www.impactfab.com