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Water Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

City of Grand Rapids

Water System Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$127K - $162K/yr

Nature of Work The purpose of this job is to oversee the various divisions responsible for long-range planning, drinking water treatment, operations, and capital and operating budgets for the potable ...

HDR

Industrial Process Water/Wastewater Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Candidates for the Industrial Process Water/Wastewater Leader role should have significant experience with industrial water/wastewater (W/WW) treatment systems and be capable of leading teams of ...

Revolution Company

Water System Operator

Flint, MI · On-site

Revolution is now hiring for a Night-Shift Water System Operator position in Flint, MI. This role will be responsible for overseeing and maintaining the water treatment system supporting the wash ...

City of Flint

Water Distribution Operator Trainee

Flint, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $19.92/hr

... to Water Distribution Operator. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Installs water mains and new service lines; inserts tapping valves for new mains and service lines. Lays and repairs water mains; repairs ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Michigan

Water Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Michigan is $22.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are water operators?

Water operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment plants and distribution systems. Their main duties include monitoring water quality, ensuring safe and efficient operation of water treatment processes, performing routine maintenance, and complying with environmental and public health regulations. Water operators play a crucial role in providing safe, clean drinking water to communities and may work for municipal utilities, private companies, or industrial facilities.

What is the hardest part of being a water operator?

The hardest part of being a water operator is often managing emergency situations, such as equipment failures or water quality issues, which require quick decision-making and technical skills. Additionally, working in sometimes challenging environments and maintaining compliance with strict regulations can be demanding. Certification and ongoing training are essential to handle these responsibilities effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Operators in maintaining treatment plant operations?

Water Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating water quality, unexpected equipment malfunctions, and strict regulatory compliance requirements. These professionals must quickly troubleshoot mechanical or chemical issues, adapt to changes in source water conditions, and ensure all processes meet local and federal safety standards. Effective communication with other team members and departments is also essential, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance staff, engineers, and regulatory agencies to resolve issues and maintain smooth plant operations.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Certain skilled trades and specialized roles such as water operators, commercial pilots, real estate brokers, and sales managers can earn $10,000 or more per month without a college degree, often requiring certifications, experience, or licensing. These jobs typically involve hands-on work, technical knowledge, or sales expertise and may require on-the-job training or industry-specific certifications.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Water operators typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their salaries usually range from moderate to high, depending on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2,000 daily often include specialized roles such as executive positions, certain medical professionals, or highly skilled contractors, but these are not typical for water operators. Most water operators earn annual salaries that are significantly lower than this daily rate.

Is it hard to become a water treatment operator?

Becoming a water treatment operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining a state certification, and gaining practical experience. The difficulty varies depending on local regulations and the level of certification required, but it generally involves passing exams and demonstrating knowledge of water treatment processes and safety protocols.

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

AspectWater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater treatment operator licenses, state certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, pipelines, reservoirsWater treatment facilities, filtration systems
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, water districts, private water companiesMunicipal water plants, treatment facilities

Both roles require similar certifications and work in water-related environments, often within municipal or private water systems. The main difference is that Water Operators focus more on maintaining water distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in operating and maintaining water treatment processes. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the water industry.

What Is a Water Operator?

As a water treatment plant operator, also called a water operator, you measure water quality and quantity using computerized equipment. Your job duties include the maintenance and repair of water treatment equipment and water delivery systems. As a water and wastewater treatment plant operator, you collaborate with engineers, chemists, and lab assistants to test water samples to inform your decisions about water treatment systems. Your primary responsibility is to make sure that water is safe for people to drink and use in their daily lives.

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

To thrive as a Water Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, basic chemistry, mechanical aptitude, and typically a state-issued water operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, reliable water quality and compliance with public health standards.
More about Water Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Michigan? For Water Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in MI? For Water Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,325 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Water/Wastewater Service & Maintenance - Apprentice

Water/Wastewater Service & Maintenance - Apprentice

Holland Board of Public Works

Holland, MI • On-site

$24 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description
Reports to: Maintenance Supervisor
Job Summary: This position is responsible for the construction, operation, maintenance, and servicing of the water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Successful progress through the Apprenticeship program is required.
Essential Duties
  • Perform general maintenance work in the water distribution and wastewater collection systems.
  • Operate all necessary equipment in the operation, maintenance and construction of the water distribution and wastewater collection systems including, but no limited to: backhoe, air compressor, jackhammer, saws, pumps and hand tools, boom truck, forklift, dump truck, sewer cleaning and TVing trucks, generators, hydraulic pipe cutters, compactors, tapping machines, and testing equipment.
  • Assist routine inspection and cleaning of sanitary sewer lines while operating necessary equipment and vehicles.
  • Assist and/or replace sanitary sewer manholes and broken sewer lines.
  • Assist in the maintenance of sewage lift stations.
  • Install and repair water mains, water services, hydrants, valves, and other equipment used in the maintenance of water reservoirs and pumping stations.
  • Install, read, repair or remove water or sewer meters and related equipment in residential, commercial and industrial settings.
  • Respond to and assist in various customer service needs and issues.
  • Repair and maintain necessary facilities, equipment, vehicles, and tools.
  • Assist in locating underground piping, update and maintain records for water/wastewater systems.
  • Assist inspection of sewer and water mains or service installations and record accurate measurements and details.
  • Perform all other tasks as assigned.

Essential Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Working knowledge of practices, material, tools, and equipment used in the water distribution and wastewater collection systems and the ability to operate and maintain all necessary tools, vehicles and equipment.
  • Experience working with customers.
  • Computer proficiency.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, blueprints, instruction manuals and spec sheets.
  • Residency within 20 miles of municipal boundary.
  • Valid Michigan Driver's License.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a forklift operator certificate from HBPW within 60 days.
  • Effective workplace skills as demonstrated through WorkKeys assessments (Workplace Documents - 4, Graphic Literacy - 4, Workplace Observation - 3).

Certification Requirements
  • Waterworks System Operator S-4 certification from the State of Michigan or the ability to obtain within 1 year of placement into this position.
  • Possession of a valid Michigan Commercial Driver's License (Class A CDL) or the ability to obtain within 60 days of placement into this position.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry more than 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces and at elevated heights.
  • Work includes occasional exposure to fumes, odors, dust, dirt, and/or other contact with chemicals or toxins.
  • Work includes exposure to extreme weather conditions including heat and chill.

Employment will be contingent upon favorable results of a background check, pre-employment physical and drug screening. Given our safety-sensitive industry, our workplace is alcohol and drug free (including marijuana and THC items).
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties assigned to or required of this position.

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