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Power Plant 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 ...

Vicinity Energy

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Plant Services Laborer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Summary The Plant Services Laborer performs a variety of assignments pertaining to cleaning ... Uses hand and power tools to maintain/repair equipment. * Performs a variety of assignments ...

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Power Plant information

See Michigan salary details

$22

$34

$47

How much do power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant in Michigan is $34.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $40.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power plant?

A Power Plant job involves operating, maintaining, and overseeing equipment that generates electricity. Workers in this field ensure the plant runs efficiently, conduct routine inspections, and troubleshoot issues to prevent downtime. Positions can vary from plant operators and technicians to engineers and maintenance personnel. These roles require technical knowledge, adherence to safety protocols, and sometimes specialized certifications or training.

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

Power Plant Operators are responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment to generate and distribute electric power, performing routine inspections, and responding to alarms or operational anomalies. They carefully log operational data, conduct safety checks, and coordinate with maintenance teams to address equipment issues. Operators may also assist with periodic testing, equipment startups or shutdowns, and adhere strictly to regulatory and safety protocols. This hands-on, technical role involves both independent tasks and regular collaboration with engineers and technicians to maintain optimal plant performance.

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

To thrive as a Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, often supported by a relevant technical degree or vocational training. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and industry certifications such as NERC or EPA qualifications are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help operators excel in dynamic and sometimes high-pressure environments. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable power generation at all times.

How can I work at a power plant?

To work at a power plant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant technical training or certifications such as a boiler operator license or electrical certification. Employers often require safety training and may prefer candidates with experience in mechanical, electrical, or industrial fields. Job roles include operators, maintenance technicians, and engineers, and some positions may require shift work or working in hazardous environments.

How much do power plant workers get paid?

Power plant workers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and specific roles, but the median annual wage is around $70,000. Skilled positions such as plant operators and technicians often earn higher wages, especially with certifications and experience in safety protocols and control systems.

Is it hard to get a job at a power plant?

Getting a job at a power plant can be competitive and often requires relevant technical skills, certifications, and experience in areas such as electrical, mechanical, or environmental systems. Entry-level positions may be easier to obtain with proper training, but higher-level roles typically demand specialized knowledge and safety training, such as OSHA certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Power Plant jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Power Plant jobs in Michigan?

For Power Plant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Plant jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Plant jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Power Plant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Power Plant job openings:

Power Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Plant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,961 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Powerhouse Operator Trainee - Central Power Plant

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

University of Michigan
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about University of Michiganexternal

$64K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

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)
University of Michigan logo

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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