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Water Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 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.

Plant Operator

Veolia Environnement SA

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

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 provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.
Job Description
Position Purpose:
The Hospital Central Utility Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation, monitoring, and maintenance of the hospital's central utility plant systems. These systems include low-pressure boilers, chillers, refrigeration equipment, HVAC systems, emergency power generation, and associated mechanical and electrical equipment. The position is critical to ensuring uninterrupted utility services that support patient care and hospital operations in compliance with City of Detroit, State of Michigan, and regulatory standards.
Primary Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Operate, monitor, and maintain low-pressure boilers, chillers, refrigeration systems, HVAC equipment, pumps, compressors, cooling towers, and related auxiliary systems.
  • Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal codes, including City of Detroit ordinances, OSHA regulations, and hospital safety standards.
  • Perform routine inspections, testing, and operational adjustments to maintain optimal plant performance and energy efficiency.
  • Respond promptly to system alarms, equipment malfunctions, and emergency situations to prevent service interruptions.
  • Maintain accurate logs, records, and reports of plant operations, maintenance activities, and regulatory inspections.
  • Coordinate with maintenance staff, contractors, and supervisors on repairs, shutdowns, and system upgrades.
  • Monitor building automation systems (BAS) and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
  • Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems.
  • Follow all infection control, safety, and hospital operational procedures.
  • Assist with training of junior operators or apprentices as assigned.
  • Perform related duties as required.

Qualifications
Education/Experience/Background:
  • High School Diploma/GED is required.
  • Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healthcare, or large industrial/institutional setting.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Demonstrated knowledge of boiler operations, refrigeration cycles, HVAC systems, electrical fundamentals, and mechanical systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and control diagrams.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training:
  • Valid City of Detroit Low Pressure Boiler Operator License.
  • Valid City of Detroit 1st Class Refrigeration Operator License.
  • Technical or trade school training preferred.

Additional Information
Benefits: Veolia's comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering and more. In addition, employees are also entitled to participate in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

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