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Operator Technician Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Starting Pay Range: $17.00 - $21.02 / hour + $2.00 / hour shift premium Starting rates are based on prior manufacturing experience. BE PART OF THE SHAPE FAMILY We are thinkers, believers and doers.At ...

Starting Pay Range: $17.00 - $21.02 / hour + $2.00 / hour shift premium Starting rates are based on prior manufacturing experience. BE PART OF THE SHAPE FAMILY We are thinkers, believers and doers.

Grinder/operator technician

Taylor, MI

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The OD/ID Grinder is responsible for setting-up, operating and tending grinding Grinding applications will span cylindrical grinding, ID grinding & specialized tool/spindle grinding Planning and ...

Grinder/operator technician

Taylor, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The OD/ID Grinder is responsible for setting-up, operating and tending grinding Grinding applications will span cylindrical grinding, ID grinding & specialized tool/spindle grinding Planning and ...

Manufacturing Technician LOCATION: Production Warren IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR : Area Supervisor ... operating production equipment. _____ JOB RESPONSIBILITIES : 1. Operate equipment to accepted ...

Edger Operator Location: Near the airport in GR Company: Glass Fabrication Company Job Type: Full-time Shift: 1st Shift (6:00AM-3:30PM) Pay Rate: $18.00/hr We're looking for a dedicated Fabrication ...

Technical Advisor

Hemlock, MI · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Technician degree (may vary by location). * 10-15 years' experience as a Production Operator/Technician (or equivalent). * Specific technology/fluids process expertise. * Knows when to elevate ...

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Operator Technician information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do operator technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator technician in Michigan is $18.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator technician?

Operator Technicians are skilled professionals responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining machinery and equipment in various industries such as manufacturing, power generation, and utilities. They ensure that machines run efficiently, troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and often document operational data. Operator Technicians play a critical role in minimizing downtime and ensuring safety standards are met. Their work may involve working in shifts, adhering to strict safety protocols, and collaborating with engineers and other technical staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator technician?

To thrive as an Operator Technician, you need solid mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, and often a technical diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), industrial machinery, and preventive maintenance systems is typically required, along with safety certifications like OSHA. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure distinguish exceptional candidates. These skills ensure smooth and safe operation of equipment, reducing downtime and maintaining productivity in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges operator technicians face in maintaining equipment reliability, and how are these typically addressed on the job?

Operator Technicians often encounter challenges such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, troubleshooting complex systems, and balancing preventive maintenance with production demands. To address these issues, they regularly perform scheduled inspections, utilize diagnostic tools, and collaborate closely with engineering and maintenance teams to quickly resolve problems. Continuous training and adherence to safety protocols are also key components in ensuring equipment runs efficiently and downtime is minimized. Open communication and teamwork help Operator Technicians stay ahead of potential issues and foster a proactive maintenance culture.

What is the difference between Operator Technician vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperator TechnicianMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in equipment operationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in repair and maintenance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, processing facilities, industrial sitesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plants, equipment repair shops
Job FocusOperating, monitoring, and controlling equipmentMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting machinery
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, energy, and processing industriesCommon in manufacturing, facilities management, and industrial sectors

While both roles work closely with industrial equipment, Operator Technicians primarily focus on operating and monitoring machinery, whereas Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and preventive maintenance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do you need a degree to be a process operator?

A process operator typically does not need a college degree but must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers often require technical training, certifications, or on-the-job experience related to operating equipment and safety procedures. Strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with control systems are also important for the role.

What are popular job titles related to Operator Technician jobs in MI?

For Operator Technician jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Operator Technician job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,911 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Rollform Operator/Technician

Shape Corp.

Grand Haven, MI • On-site

$17 - $21.02/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Shape Corp. rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Starting Pay Range:
$17.00 - $21.02 / hour + $2.00 / hour shift premium
Starting rates are based on prior manufacturing experience.

BE PART OF THE SHAPE FAMILY

We are thinkers, believers and doers.At Shape, we don't see the norm as our limit; we look at it as our opportunity to push limits and tradition.A chance to bring something new to our customers, team members and communities.When seemingly impossible challenges arise, we look to the core of the problem, and create solutions others believe can't be done.

Position Summary:Responsible for the set up and operation of the Rolling Mill(s), while meeting all required safety and productivity requirements, ensuring quality of production parts.

Essential Job Functions include, but not limited to, the following:
  • Operate, including the start up, production and shut down of the Rolling Mill.
  • Perform quality required checks including first piece part (green tag part).
  • Utilize hand measuring tools including:
    • Micrometers
    • Calipers
    • Tape measure
    • Feeler gages
  • Weld coil ends together using tungsten inert gas welding (or other means if required by the job and/or work center).
  • Set and adjust roll pressure as required.
  • Perform required preventative maintenance.
  • Set shut height on the pre-pierce press and make proper adjustments to flying die.
  • Demonstrate proficiency on inline welders if applicable to your area or cross-section(s).
  • Install and place mandrels according to set-up charts.
  • Demonstrate proficiency sweeping parts to specification and fine-tuning mandrel.
  • Perform cutoff blade, die steel, side cam and other perishable cutoff tooling replacements as required.
  • Demonstrate ability to troubleshoot the following: twist, SPC issues, length and centering issues, cross-section dimensional issues.
  • Function as a member of a team, working to proactively solve problems maintain and improve safety and meet production standards.
  • Communicate clearly and proactively with leaders and co-workers to ensure production goals are met.
  • Additional functions, not specifically outlined in this position description, as directed by the leader.

#INDH

Position Skills and Experience Requirements:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty effectively. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
  • Previous experience with roll mills or demonstrated mechanical aptitude and/or maintenance experience with manufacturing machinery preferred
  • General Microsoft office computer skills, e.g. (Word, Excel, etc.).

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