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Utility Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

PPG

Production Associate

Adrian, MI

$22.67/hr

UTILITY OPERATOR- Adrian, MI Pay Rate: $22.67 / hour Shift: 2nd shift (3:00PM - 11:30PM) + Overtime as needed JOB FUNCTION - REQUIREMENTS - SUCCESS FACTORS The Utility Operator provides support for ...

PPG Industries, Inc.

Production Associate

Adrian, MI · On-site

$22.67/hr

UTILITY OPERATOR- Adrian, MI Pay Rate: $22.67 / hour Shift: 2nd shift (3:00PM - 11:30PM) + Overtime as needed JOB FUNCTION - REQUIREMENTS - SUCCESS FACTORS The Utility Operator provides support for ...

Bricco Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Position Overview Heavy Equipment Operator with Underground Utility Experience The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy machinery to ...

Bricco Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Position Overview Heavy Equipment Operator with Underground Utility Experience The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy machinery to ...

Hydromax USA

Technician 1 - Gas

Howell, MI · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

You will collaborate with local utility operators to inspect natural gas infrastructure, utilizing sensitive detection equipment to identify hazards before they threaten life or property. This is a ...

HOOD CONTAINER CORPORATION

Utility

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

The Utility plays a critical role in supporting the manufacturing process within the durable goods industry by assisting machine operators and ensuring smooth production flow. This position involves ...

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All JobsUtility Operator JobsUtility Operator Jobs in Michigan

Utility Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$22

$32

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in Michigan is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, certifications in water treatment and safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, utility facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, energy providersMunicipalities, water service providers

Utility Operators and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work in utility environments and require safety and equipment operation certifications. However, Utility Operators often work across various utility sectors, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on water purification processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining public utility services and share similar credentials and work environments.

What are the duties of a Utility Operator?

A Utility Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in the production and distribution of utilities such as water, gas, or electricity. They monitor systems, perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed. The role often requires knowledge of control systems, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications or licenses depending on the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, operational procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pumps, valves, and relevant certifications such as OSHA or water/wastewater operator licenses is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators manage issues and collaborate with team members. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of utility systems and help maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges Utility Operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Utility Operators often work rotating shifts, which can affect sleep patterns and personal schedules. Managing fatigue, maintaining consistent communication with team members across shifts, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment issues are common challenges. Effective strategies include adhering to a sleep routine, staying updated on shift handovers, and participating in regular safety and equipment training. Building strong teamwork and clear communication helps ensure smooth operations and minimizes downtime.

What Is a Utility Operator?

A utility operator is a machinist who works with different types of utility systems, such as water piping, wastewater plants, electrical cabling, or manufacturing equipment. Typical job duties include installation, maintenance, and repair of utilities. Qualifications for this job depend on the type of utilities but often include experience working with mechanical systems. Additional career skills include knowledge of specific types of machinery, such as overhead cranes and forklifts.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Utility operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in specialized fields like power plant or water treatment plant operations. These roles often require technical skills, certifications, and on-the-job training but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying roles in skilled trades or industrial settings may also reach this level without a degree.

What are Utility Operators?

Utility Operators are responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining equipment and machinery in various utilities such as water treatment plants, power plants, or manufacturing facilities. Their main tasks include ensuring equipment runs safely and efficiently, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments as needed. They may also record data, follow safety protocols, and coordinate with other team members to maintain continuous operations. Utility Operators play a crucial role in ensuring that essential services are delivered reliably to communities or businesses.

What is the Utility Operator's salary?

The average salary for a utility operator typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Utility operators often require technical skills and may need certifications such as OSHA or EPA licenses, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

How to become a Utility Operator?

To become a utility operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical coursework related to utilities or machinery. Some positions require certifications such as OSHA safety training or operator licenses, and strong mechanical skills are beneficial for operating and maintaining equipment in utility environments.
More about Utility Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Utility Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in Michigan? For Utility Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Utility Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Utility Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in MI? For Utility Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Utility Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,306 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Seasonal Utility Operator - GA

Seasonal Utility Operator - GA

Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority

Dewitt, MI

$17.62/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Title

Seasonal Utility Operator - GA

Job Summary

Responsible for performing general repair work on Airport field and grounds such as trimming lawns, bushes and trees, clearing approaches to runways and maintaining parking lots and public streets.
LOCATION: General DeWitt Spain Airport and/or Charles Baker Airport located in the Millington area.
Hourly Rate: $17.62

Position Description

1. Uses hands, arms, feet, legs, manual dexterity and a relatively high degree of concentration and attention to safely operate yard maintenance and landscaping equipment and tools such as riding lawn mowers, weed-eaters, wheelbarrows, shovels etc. in order to maintain lawns and landscaping on Airport grounds. Involves working in an outdoor environment with exposure to all weather conditions, smoke, dust, fumes, heat and noise.
2. Uses electrical and mechanical trimming equipment to trim bushes and trees on Airport grounds. Involves bending, stooping, crouching and reaching to properly trim bushes and trees. Climbs ladders to access all areas of trees to be trimmed. Cleans up all trimmings and places in proper waste containers.
3. Uses necessary tools and equipment to repair eroded areas and seeded areas according to written and verbal instructions.
4. Maintains parking lots and public streets in an acceptable state. Involves frequent bending to pick-up trash and place trash in containers. Carries and empties containers of trash weighing up to 50 lbs.
5. Uses manual dexterity and visual observation to operate Airport Authority vehicles as required (not to include vehicles exceeding the gross vehicle weight rate of 26,000 lbs.).

6. Uses manual dexterity to operate portable radios used to communicate with supervisors and co-workers.
7. Maintains and cleans yard maintenance and landscaping equipment as needed.
8. Maintains reliable and punctual attendance in accordance with scheduled work hours and organizational policies.

Requirements

EDUCATION - High School Diploma or GED,

EXPERIENCE - One (1) year of groundskeeping, landscaping, general labor, or related outdoor maintenance work. Must have a valid drivers license.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of grounds maintenance including lawn care, tree and shrub trimming, and general landscaping practices. Knowledge of safe operation and routine maintenance of groundskeeping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, and blowers.
Skill in operating and maintaining hand tools used in grounds maintenance. Good human relations skills including ability to build effective and productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Skill in working effectively as part of a team with coworkers and supervisors. Good written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, bending, standing for extended periods, and operating equipment in outdoor environments. Ability to adapt to changing work conditions, weather, and operational needs. Ability to maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work environment.

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