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Utility Operator Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI (NOW HIRING)

We're the number one publicly traded company of our kind, operating a global family of brands and businesses that span more than 260 facilities in over 15 countries. Our unique scale allows us to ...

General Utility - Applebee's

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Position Summary The General Utility position maintains kitchen work areas, equipment, plateware ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...

General Utility - Applebee's

Portage, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Position Summary The General Utility position maintains kitchen work areas, equipment, plateware ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...

General Utility - Applebee's

Plainwell, MI · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Position Summary The General Utility position maintains kitchen work areas, equipment, plateware ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as contracts, operating and maintenance instructions ...

Showing results 21-40

Utility Operator information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

$12

$24

$35

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in Kalamazoo, MI is $24.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $29.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Utility Operator jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Utility Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Kalamazoo, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 22% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,204 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Darling Ingredients rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Company Details

Darling Ingredients repurposes and recycles materials from the animal agriculture and food industries - transforming them into essential ingredients that do everything from feeding animals to fertilizing crops to fueling planes and nourishing people. We're the number one publicly traded company of our kind, operating a global family of brands and businesses that span more than 260 facilities in over 15 countries. Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping move the world toward a more circular economy.

Darling Ingredients offers full time employees a full suite of benefits including but not limited to the following: 401(k), Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, and Paid Time Off.

Job Summary

Responsible for performing duties related to production and meeting shipping deadlines in a timely manner. This position is also responsible for the cleanliness of plant and equipment.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

  • Load and unload items from machines, conveyors, and conveyances.
  • Operate machinery used in production process or assist machine operators.
  • Place products in equipment or on work surfaces for further processing, inspecting and wrapping.
  • Examine products to verify conformance to quality standards.
  • Start machines or equipment to begin production processes.
  • Observe equipment operations so that malfunctions can be detected, and notify operators, supervisor or maintenance of any malfunctions.
  • Remove products or waste material from machines.
  • Lift raw materials, finished products and packed items, manually.
  • Transfer finished product, raw material between storage and work areas of plant by hand or using forklift.
  • Pack and store materials and products.
  • Mark and tag products.
  • Dump materials into machine hoppers prior to mixing.
  • Mix ingredients according to specified procedures or formulas.
  • May be asked on occasion to perform other duties at a lower level or higher level or proficiency or not related to this classification.
  • Required to know, implement and delegate FSMS responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma / GED.
  • Successful applicants must be willing and able to frequently stand, walk, bend, crawl as well as push/pull items while working in a fast-paced environment of varying temperatures and with possible slippery surfaces.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in a manufacturing environment.

The information contained in this job description is intended to describe the essential job functions required of those assigned to this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the job. Please note that management retains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, integrity, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Darling Ingredients.


Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster


Working Conditions and Physical Demands

The physical demands and work environment factors described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the main duties of this job.

Working Environment

None

Occasionally = up to 20%

Frequently = 21% to 50%

Constantly = at least 51%

Exposed to unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments such as high noise level, strong odors, and/or exposure to heat and cold

Exposed to bio hazardous conditions

Exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals which mandate attention to safety considerations

Exposed to Electrical hazards; risk of electrical shock

Handles or works with potentially dangerous equipment

Travels to offsite locations

Other (please describe):

Physical Demands

None

Occasionally = up to 20%

Frequently = 21% to 50%

Constantly = at least 51%

Sit: Must be able to remain in a stationary position.

Walk: Must be able to move about inside/outside office or work location.

Use hands to finger, handle or feel: Operates a computer and other office machinery.

Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl: Must be able to position one's self to maintain computers in the lab, including under desks and in the server closet.

Climb or balance: Must be able to ascend/descend on a ladder.

Talk, hear, taste, smell: Must be able to use senses to; effectively communicate with co-workers and clients and detect hazardous conditions.


Weight and Force Demands

None

Occasionally = up to 20%

Frequently = 21% to 50%

Constantly = at least 51%

Up to 10 pounds

Up to 25 pounds

Up to 50 pounds

Up to 100 pounds

More than 100 pounds

Vision Demands

Required

No special vision requirements

Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)

Distance vision (Clear vision at 20 feet or more)

Color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)

Peripheral vision

Depth perception

Ability to adjust focus


What Darling Ingredients employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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