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Power Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

DCO Energy, LLC

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Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Flint, MI · On-site

$30 - $31/hr

Performs operating care and minor maintenance on power plant equipment. Trains other Plant Operators. Must be able to work independently and with a team to perform required repairs by means of proper ...

New

Munson Healthcare

Plant Operator III

Traverse City, MI · On-site

... Operator in assignment and supervision of various maintenance and operational tasks. Operates as ... High School Diploma or GED * 4 years of power plant experience in the operation of boilers in a ...

Munson Healthcare

Plant Operator III

Traverse City, MI · On-site

... Operator in assignment and supervision of various maintenance and operational tasks. Operates as ... High School Diploma or GED * 4 years of power plant experience in the operation of boilers in a ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Veolia

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Veolia

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Walbec Group

Asphalt Plant Operator

Houghton, MI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for an Experienced Asphalt Plant Operator to work in our Asphalt ... Welders (Stick, MIG), Oxy Acetylene Torches, Pneumatic Jackhammers, Power Tools (Drill, Grinder ...

Posted today

Walbec Group

Asphalt Plant Operator

Baraga, MI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for an Experienced Asphalt Plant Operator to work in our Asphalt ... Welders (Stick, MIG), Oxy Acetylene Torches, Pneumatic Jackhammers, Power Tools (Drill, Grinder ...

Posted today

Walbec Group

Asphalt Plant Operator

Houghton, MI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for an Experienced Asphalt Plant Operator to work in our Asphalt ... Welders (Stick, MIG), Oxy Acetylene Torches, Pneumatic Jackhammers, Power Tools (Drill, Grinder ...

Posted today

Walbec Group

Asphalt Plant Operator

Calumet, MI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for an Experienced Asphalt Plant Operator to work in our Asphalt ... Welders (Stick, MIG), Oxy Acetylene Torches, Pneumatic Jackhammers, Power Tools (Drill, Grinder ...

Posted today

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All JobsPower Plant Operator JobsPower Plant Operator Trainee JobsPower Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan

Power Plant Operator Trainee information

See Michigan salary details

$17

$38

$55

How much do power plant operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant operator trainee in Michigan is $38.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $51.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant operator trainee?

A Power Plant Operator Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals learn how to monitor and control power-generating equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. Trainees receive hands-on training in operating turbines, boilers, generators, and other systems to ensure safe and efficient power production. Responsibilities typically include reading gauges, recording data, and responding to system alerts. Over time, trainees gain the knowledge and skills needed to become fully qualified power plant operators.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a power plant operator trainee?

As a Power Plant Operator Trainee, your daily tasks typically involve shadowing experienced operators, monitoring equipment gauges and control panels, recording operational data, and assisting with routine maintenance. You may also learn to adjust controls to regulate output, respond to alarms or abnormal indicators, and participate in safety drills. Over time, you'll gain experience analyzing system performance and troubleshooting issues under supervision. The role offers hands-on training in a highly structured team setting, preparing you for increased responsibility and possible advancement to full operator roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the power plant operator trainee position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring technical training or coursework. Familiarity with control systems, monitoring equipment, and safety protocols is crucial, and completion of relevant safety training or industry certifications can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to follow instructions make a candidate stand out in this position. These competencies ensure safe and efficient plant operations while supporting learning and advancement in a highly regulated environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan? For Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,062 per year, or $39 per hour.

Powerhouse Operator Trainee - Central Power Plant

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$64K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Who We Are
Utilities is a division of Facilities and Operations, made up of 135 dedicated employees responsible for providing utilities services for the university 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Services include campus-wide utilities purchasing, generation, and distribution, as well as metering and billing energy consumption for all university buildings. Distribution includes the operations and maintenance of 300 miles of underground utility systems from outdoor lighting and high voltage circuits to water mains to tunnel piping. The division also provides a wide range of engineering services primarily dedicated to energy management, the operations and maintenance of university facilities, and the utilities infrastructure.
Responsibilities*
  • An entry level position designed to train an employee to move into the Powerhouse Operator classification.
  • Assists in the maintenance, repair and operation of power plant and facility equipment as directed by supervision, and operating engineers.
  • Perform the following duties under the direction of operating engineers:
    • Perform constant visual checks, read gauges and manipulate controls.
    • Clear lines of sediment.
    • Inspect, install and repair steam pipes and insulation, valves, pumps and safety devices.
    • Record various meter readings of pressure and temperature.
    • Perform water conditioning and treatment tests.
    • Start and shut down boilers with assistance.
    • Clean and inspect and perform routine maintenance on equipment including, but not limited to, oiling and greasing, repairing of furnace factories and repacking of leaking packing glands.
    • Assist with annual routine maintenance of equipment.
    • Perform basic machining such as drilling, threading and grinding.
  • Observe all University policies and procedures.
  • Act in accordance with the Facilities and Operations' guiding principles: collaboration, respect, proactive, solutions-based, and responsibility to the environment.

Required Qualifications*
  • Graduation from high school, a trade school equivalent, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Willingness to attend and ability to successfully complete related course work.
  • Considerable mechanical aptitude.
  • Familiarity with hand and power tools.
  • Some knowledge of safety standards and procedures.
  • Must be able to perform the full range of duties, with or without a reasonable accommodation, in the classification in an environment that has high levels of heat and noise. This position constantly positions self to service and repair powerhouse equipment traversing under and over obstacles, ascends/descends ladders to service and repair powerhouse equipment, and routinely moves powerhouse equipment and materials weighing up to 50lbs.

Why Work at Michigan?
Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care - that's the heart of what drives people to work at Michigan. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. It's adding a purpose to your profession. Work at Michigan and become a victor for the greater good.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Additional Information
Supervision Received:
  • Close supervision is received from a designated official.
  • Receives direction from operating engineers.

Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the International Union of Operating Engineers, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
281078
Working Title
Powerhouse Operator Trainee - Central Power Plant
Job Title
POWERHOUSE OPERATOR TRAINEE
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Nonexempt
Organizational Group
Utilities
Department
Labor Services - Utilities
Posting Begin/End Date
8/05/2026 - 8/26/2026
Salary
$64,979.20 - $82,430.40
Career Interest
Operating Engineers (IUOE Union)

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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