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Power Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Plant Utilities and Process Systems Operator

Hemlock, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Plant Utilities and Process Systems Operator is a critical role contributing to the seamless ... Monitor power distribution systems * Interface with PLC's and instrumentation to monitor and adjust ...

Plant Utilities and Process Systems Operator

Hemlock, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Plant Utilities and Process Systems Operator is a critical role contributing to the seamless ... Monitor power distribution systems * Interface with PLC's and instrumentation to monitor and adjust ...

Heavy Press Operator

Royal Oak, MI

$15.50 - $20/hr

Candidates must be able to manage a fast paced schedule that includes full-time plant floor work and classes at Macomb Community College. As a Heavy Press Operator trainee, you'll gain hands-on ...

MAGIC Inspections Trainee

Clare, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a MAGIC Inspection Trainee , you will learn to safely perform specialized generator inspection work in power plant environments using all variations of the MAGIC robotic inspection system.

... field of power plant operations. • Maintain a safe work environment though job planning ... of Plant Operating Procedures. • Must follow proper event notification and communication ...

... field of power plant operations. • Maintain a safe work environment though job planning ... of Plant Operating Procedures. • Must follow proper event notification and communication ...

Powered by two high-efficiency GE 7HA.02 gas turbines and a steam turbine generator, the plant ... Opportunity Summary The Control Room Operator (CRO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and ...

Control Room Operator (CRO)

Niles, MI · On-site

$46 - $55.36/hr

Powered by two high-efficiency GE 7HA.02 gas turbines and a steam turbine generator, the plant ... Opportunity Summary The Control Room Operator (CRO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and ...

I&C Technician II

Midland, MI · On-site

$47/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A little about Capital Power Capital Power (TSX: CPX) is dedicated to Powering Change by Changing ... Support operator workstations, HMIs, DCS platforms, and plant networks (e.g., fiber and serial ...

Showing results 41-60

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 16, 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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Power Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Power Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

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.

Plant Utilities and Process Systems Operator

Corning

Hemlock, MI • On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 71496
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Our Solar business delivers industry leading, U.S.-made solar components. We manufacture hyper-pure polysilicon, high-quality solar wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, leveraging our leadership in advanced manufacturing to serve growing energy demand. You will be a part of advancing critical U.S. supply chains and delivering unmatched quality and reliability to customers.
Purpose of the Position: The Plant Utilities and Process Systems Operator is a critical role contributing to the seamless operations of a large-scale manufacturing facility. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of plant utilities and process support systems. Your expertise will be vital in maintaining uninterrupted services that are critical to sustaining production and achieving operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
  • Monitor and operate systems:
    • Operate and monitor plant utilities and process systems, including boilers, chillers, compressors, HVAC systems, water treatment systems, and other critical infrastructure.
    • Use control room systems (such as SCADA, DCS, or other monitoring tools) to track and ensure optimal equipment performance.
    • Monitor power distribution systems
    • Interface with PLC's and instrumentation to monitor and adjust process parameters.
  • Ensure Operational Safety:
    • Adhere to all safety protocols and industry standards while operating plant systems.
    • Strict adherence to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space, hot work, and chemical handling procedures.
    • Conduct routine safety checks and promptly address any potential hazards or irregularities.
    • Participate in safety committees, audits, and incident investigations as required.
  • Troubleshooting and Maintenance Support:
    • Identify, diagnose, and troubleshoot malfunctions in utility or process systems to minimize downtime and maintain continuous operations.
    • Coordinate with the maintenance team and engineering to prioritize and support repairs or preventive maintenance activities.
    • Assist vendors and contractors during shutdowns, inspections, and special projects.
  • System Optimization:
    • Analyze system performance and recommend adjustments to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
    • Implement process improvements to enhance reliability and support production goals.
  • Emergency Response:
    • Respond quickly and effectively to system alarms, failures, or emergencies to minimize impacts on production.
    • Implement contingency plans and escalate issues to supervisors or technical teams when necessary.
  • Documentation and Reporting:
    • Maintain accurate records of system performance, maintenance activities, and operational changes.
    • Prepare and submit daily shift reports, logs, and incident reports as required.
  • Collaboration with Teams:
    • Mentor junior operators and support cross-training initiatives to strengthen workforce capability.
    • Work closely with production, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams to ensure alignment on operational goals.
    • Communicate system status and any critical issues across shifts for seamless handovers.
  • Equipment Start-Up and Shutdown:
    • Perform system start-up, shutdown, and changeover procedures in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Qualifications
  • Ability to work a 2-3-2 pitman schedule, overtime, and holiday as needed to support production schedules and maintenance needs.
  • High school diploma or equivalent (required).
  • Associate's degree or vocational training in mechanical engineering, industrial technology, process control, skilled trades or a related field (preferred).
  • Equivalent military/technical training in power plant, utilities, or industrial systems may substitute for work experience.
  • Preferred 5+ years' work experience in a control room operation environment operating controls and utility systems:
    • HVAC, cooling towers, SIS controls, process Water, pumping systems, RO systems, AHU's, CDA, chemical distribution, heat transfer equipment, power distribution, and Boilers.
  • Ability to diagnose, repair, and maintaining building facilities systems.
  • Keen sense of urgency and adaptability to react accordingly during emergencies.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
  • Excellent communication skills

As part of our Utilities and Process Systems team, you'll play a direct role in powering a sustainable future. You'll gain exposure to advanced manufacturing processes, work with state-of-the-art systems, and join a company committed to innovation, safety, and employee growth.
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The range for this position is $27.00 hourly rate - $39.00 hourly rate. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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