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Water Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

fng

Waste Water Supervisor

Ionia, MI

Manage and maintain waste water treatment system at peak operating levels with the goal of meeting regulatory requirements, operating cost efficiently and minimizing impacts to production and the ...

fng

Waste Water Supervisor

Ionia, MI · On-site

Manage and maintain waste water treatment system at peak operating levels with the goal of meeting regulatory requirements, operating cost efficiently and minimizing impacts to production and the ...

Veolia

Wastewater Plant Operator I

Wyandotte, MI

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology ...

Flex-N-Gate

Waste Water Supervisor

Ionia, MI · On-site

Manage and maintain waste water treatment system at peak operating levels with the goal of meeting regulatory requirements, operating cost efficiently and minimizing impacts to production and the ...

fng

Waste Water Supervisor

Ionia, MI

Manage and maintain waste water treatment system at peak operating levels with the goal of meeting regulatory requirements, operating cost efficiently and minimizing impacts to production and the ...

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 ...

Veolia

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology ...

Veolia

Plant Operator

Detroit, MI

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Michigan

Water Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

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$35

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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.

How much do water operators make?

Water operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

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 does it take to be a water operator?

A water operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a state-issued water treatment operator license, and knowledge of water quality standards, safety procedures, and equipment operation. On-the-job training and technical skills are also important for ensuring safe and efficient water service.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe drinking water. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working outdoors or in water treatment facilities. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and infrastructure maintenance.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,325 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Distribution Operator at Upper Michigan Water

Hearthstone Holdings, Inc.

Calumet, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Operate company backhoe to install, repair, and replace water lines, meters, valves and hydrants.
• Maintain shop inventory, operate machinery, complete daily work orders.
• Perform general landscaping/maintenance tasks within the plant sites, office and distribution system.
• Load and unload materials and equipment; assist in delivery, storage and transfer of chemicals.
• Operate various hand and power tools and test instruments.
• Learn and apply all safety rules and regulations.
• Perform routine operational duties and learn to perform more complex or critical assignments.
• Respond to and perform emergency repairs at irregular hours.
• Ability to be subject to 24-hour on call, variable working hours, overtime, weekends and holidays. May be required to perform stand-by duties and respond to emergencies.
Minimum Training and Experience Required To Perform Essential Functions:
• General knowledge of the use of equipment used in water distribution or treatment processes, such as pumps, motors, valves, meters, generators and compressors.
• Ability to recognize and use tools and equipment necessary to perform limited repairs to equipment.
• Knowledge of the safe and proper operation of various types of hand and power tools, pick-up trucks, tractors and similar vehicles.
Other Requirements:
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must possess a valid Michigan driver's license in good standing
• Employment is contingent upon passing a physical examination and drug test.
• Ability to receive EGLE Level 2 Water Distribution certification within two years after hire.
Physical Abilities Required to Perform Essential Functions:
• Ability to analyze, compare, count, differentiate, copy, and record information and data.
• Ability to explain, demonstrate and clarify to others within well-established policies, procedures and standards.
• Ability to follow specific instructions and respond to simple requests from others.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with supervisor and personnel.
• Ability to use functional reasoning and apply rational judgment in performing diversified work activities.
• Ability to exercise the judgment, decisiveness and creativity required in situations involving the evaluation of information or processes.
• Ability to perform movements requiring skill and training, such as assembling equipment.
• Ability to exert effort in strenuous physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling. Ability to lift and move the weight of a large bag of cement or the equivalent.
• Ability to withstand exposure to inclement weather conditions, working in wet and/or odorous areas, working in tanks and/or confined spaces.
Employment benefits:
  • Health Insurance: Eligible for Medical, Rx, Dental, Vision, and HSA ($500/$1000 Employer Contribution)
  • Retirement Plans: Eligible for the Hope Utilities 401(k) plan with a 4% company contribution and company match up to 4% of eligible compensation
  • Income Protection: Company-paid Life Insurance, Business Travel Accident Insurance, Sickness Benefit, Long-Term Disability, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Critical Illness and AD&D.

#LI-ASH
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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