ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Power Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, LLC

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 ...

State of Michigan

Phyiscal Plant Supervisor-13

Jackson, MI · On-site

$35.31 - $50.24/hr

OR One year of experience equivalent to a Physical Plant Supervisor 12 OR Six years of power plant operator or maintenance mechanic experience, including three years equivalent to a Power Plant ...

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

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

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

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

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 ...

DTE Energy

Unit Operator - NH (Monroe PP)

Monroe, MI · On-site

The Unit Operator trains and directs the activities of the power plant operators and acts as the Operating Authority's delegate in the implementation of the Protective Tagging System PPO-77. Provides ...

DTE Energy

Unit Operator - NH (Monroe PP)

Monroe, MI · On-site

The Unit Operator trains and directs the activities of the power plant operators and acts as the Operating Authority's delegate in the implementation of the Protective Tagging System PPO-77. Provides ...

Spectrum Health

Boiler Operator

Trenton, MI

$30.61 - $36.84/hr

Under limited supervision, operates, maintains, and repairs major power plant and/or auxiliary ... Responsible for maintaining all critical power plant systems in peak operating condition.

Corewell Health

Boiler Operator

Trenton, MI · On-site

$30.61 - $36.84/hr

Under limited supervision, operates, maintains, and repairs major power plant and/or auxiliary ... Responsible for maintaining all critical power plant systems in peak operating condition.

Spectrum Health

Boiler Operator

Wayne, MI

$31.38 - $37.80/hr

Under limited supervision, operates, maintains, and repairs major power plant and/or auxiliary ... Responsible for maintaining all critical power plant systems in peak operating condition.

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 2, 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 the role of an operator trainee?

A power plant operator trainee is responsible for learning how to monitor and control the equipment and systems that generate electricity. They assist experienced operators in maintaining safe and efficient plant operations, often under supervision, and may need to obtain certifications or licenses to operate specific machinery. The role involves gaining technical knowledge of plant processes, safety procedures, and operational protocols.

How hard is it to become a power plant operator?

Becoming a power plant operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining on-the-job training, and obtaining relevant certifications or licenses. The process involves learning complex systems, safety protocols, and often passing written and practical exams, making it a challenging but achievable career path for those with technical aptitude and attention to detail.

What is a Power Plant Operator Trainee job?

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.

How much does it pay to work at a power plant?

Power plant operator trainees typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on location, experience, and the specific power plant. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with training and certification, salaries can increase as skills and responsibilities grow.

How long is power plant operator school?

Power plant operator training programs typically last from several weeks to several months, depending on the facility and whether the trainee is enrolled in a formal apprenticeship or technical school. The training includes classroom instruction on plant systems, safety procedures, and hands-on experience operating equipment. Additional certification or licensing may be required before fully qualifying for the role.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,062 per year, or $39 per hour.

Apprentice Power Plant Operator

Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc.

Hersey, MI

$15.50 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Join the Team That Powers & Protects

At Wolverine Power Cooperative, we help keep the lights on by generating reliable and affordable power for the communities we proudly serve. As a member-owned, mission-driven electric utility, we're committed to innovation, sustainability, and long-term energy solutions.

We're currently seeking an Apprentice Power Plant Operator to join our team in Hersey, Michigan. In this hands-on role, you'll be part of the team responsible for safely operating and maintaining Wolverine's gas turbine electric generation facilities.

A Day in the Life:

As an Apprentice Power Plant Operator, you'll work under the guidance of a Chief Plant Operator as you progress through a structured training program designed to grow your skills and expertise.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Learning to operate gas turbines and auxiliary equipment
  • Performing routine maintenance and minor mechanical repairs
  • Recording equipment readings and making real-time adjustments
  • Supporting switching orders and Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures
  • Keeping systems running at optimal temperatures, pressures, and lubrication levels

This role requires the ability to work rotating shifts-including weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime-and may include travel to other Wolverine sites as needed.

What We're Looking For:

We're looking for someone with a mechanical mindset, a strong work ethic, and a desire to learn the power generation industry from the ground up.

The ideal candidate will have:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent (required)
  • Mechanical or electrical experience (preferred)
  • Instrumentation & Controls experience (preferred) 
  • Basic computer proficiency
  • A valid Michigan driver's license
  • The ability to complete online apprentice coursework (outside of work hours)
  • A commitment to safety, good judgment, and teamwork
  • A willingness to work rotating shifts and respond to short-notice scheduling needs

Experience in power generation or maintenance is a plus-but if you bring the right attitude and are ready to learn, we'll teach you the rest.

Why Join Us?

At Wolverine, we don't just offer jobs-we build long-term careers. We invest in our people and believe that a strong team culture drives our collective success.

Here's what you can expect as a Wolverine employee:

  • Pension plan
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Zero-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance (for your entire family)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off and holidays
  • Educational assistance and development opportunities
  • A supportive team culture grounded in safety, service, and innovation

About Wolverine Power Cooperative

Headquartered in Cadillac, Michigan, Wolverine Power Cooperative is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative owned by eight members throughout Michigan. Together, we serve more than 300,000 homes, farms, and businesses with reliable, affordable power-every day.

If you're ready to build a career in energy and be part of a team that makes a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Studies show that individuals from underrepresented groups, including women and people of color, often hesitate to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At Wolverine, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you're passionate about this role but don't meet every qualification, we still encourage you to apply. Your unique experiences and perspectives are what help us grow stronger as a team.

Wolverine actively seeks a diverse workforce and ensures that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy status, genetic disposition, or any other legally protected status.

Apply