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Utility Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Utility operator is a rover who will assist as necessary in preparing and expanding to meet specifications; die punching, slotting and assisting with packing orders for shipment. Duties may ...

The Utility operator is a rover who will assist as necessary in preparing and expanding to meet specifications; die punching, slotting and assisting with packing orders for shipment. Duties may ...

Utility- Metals (2nd Shift)

MI ยท On-site

$22.58/hr

The Utility operator is a rover who will assist as necessary in preparing and expanding to meet specifications; die punching, slotting and assisting with packing orders for shipment. Duties may ...

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 ...

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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Utility Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$22

$32

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,306 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Utility Operator (Carbon Green BioEnergy)

UNITED COOPERATIVE

Lake Odessa, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:

Utility Operators are a supporting position for the operations teams. They are responsible for the operation of the plant to ensure maximum production and quality control by monitoring plant processes and equipment. Utility Operators will be expected to learn all areas of the plant of a short period of time; to include Distillation & Evaporation, Cook, Energy Center and Board Operations. They will also be expected to learn the process of Ethanol manufacturing and co-products and the equipment used in this process. They may also be utilized in the maintenance and material handling departments as needed. This position requires a great deal of flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  1. Utility Operators will work a 12-hour shift, rotating schedule (every six weeks- 5:45am-5:45pm or 5:45pm-5:45am)
  • Ensure that processes are operated in a safe, timely and cost-effective manner.
  • Communicate regularly with all process operators, both individually and as a group to maintain consistent operation among the shifts. This is to include both written and verbal communication. Follow all plant policies and procedures. This includes safety, operations and company policies.
  • Ensure the plant is clean and organized by following all housekeeping rules, schedules, and guidelines.
  • Work on call as needed including call-ins and vacation coverage.
  1. Help monitor and control plant operations
  • Work with plant DCS& PLC control systems.
  • Have basic computer skills and be familiar with windows-based software.
  • Responsible for the Distillation and Evaporation areas to include but not limited to sampling, monitoring, and adjusting the process to assure proper performance and product specifications are met.
  • Responsible for all tank farm activities including transfers, truck loading and off-loading.
  • Field monitor equipment and help troubleshoot plant operation issues.
  • Help with the maintenance and upkeep of plant process areas and plant equipment. Report possible maintenance issues via plant CMMS system.
  • The operations group will also help with the grain handling and shipping/receiving areas of the plant.
  1. Participates in Quality Assurance Program
  • Communicates directly with QA lab to ensure effective participation in the implementation of QA policies and procedures.
  • Sample and test process streams as required by the QA program and procedures. Work with shift supervisor to adjust and control process based on these results.
  • Maintain QA records, logs and spreadsheets; as well as field readings and housekeeping records.
  • Understand and interpret QA result and take appropriate effective action when required.
  1. Participates in plant maintenance program (CMMS)
  • Communicates directly with the maintenance department to coordinate maintenance and repair work in process areas.
  • Performs daily preventative maintenance activities as scheduled and/or directed.
  • Assists maintenance technicians in performing maintenance and repairs.
  • Assists with diagnosing and trouble-shooting maintenance related issues.
  1. Participates in safety, health and environmental programs
  • Knows and understands city, county, state and federal regulations relating to process operations and works in a manner to ensure that these regulations are met at all times.
  • Participates in plant safety education and training programs and must follow all procedures at all times. This will include monthly, quarterly and annual training sessions.
  1. Other
  • Implements programs and procedures required to ensure plant cleanliness.
  • Monitor the use and inventories of process chemicals.
  • Trained and certified on the use of all company rolling stock.

Qualifications:

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must have expertise and proficiency with basic office software including word processing, email and spreadsheets.
  • Must have the ability to work effectively with computerized maintenance management system.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills as well as time management skills.
  • Must have the ability to work both days and nights, schedule is a rotating 12-hour shift.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to working near moving mechanical parts.
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions; must be able to climb ladders and work in high, precarious places; and outdoor weather conditions.
  • The employee may be occasionally exposed to high noise environments.
  • Must have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.