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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Hydro North America

Finance Manager

Cassopolis, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with plant leadership to develop annual business plans, operating budgets, forecasts, and ... Monitor facility utility consumption and costs--including electricity, natural gas, water, argon ...

Norsk Hydro

Finance Manager

Cassopolis, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with plant leadership to develop annual business plans, operating budgets, forecasts, and ... Monitor facility utility consumption and costs-including electricity, natural gas, water, argon ...

Norsk Hydro

Finance Manager (22511)

Cassopolis, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with plant leadership to develop annual business plans, operating budgets, forecasts, and ... Monitor facility utility consumption and costs-including electricity, natural gas, water, argon ...

Norsk Hydro

Finance Manager

Cassopolis, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with plant leadership to develop annual business plans, operating budgets, forecasts, and ... Monitor facility utility consumption and costs-including electricity, natural gas, water, argon ...

Spartan Tool

Winder

Niles, MI · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From our plant in Niles, Michigan, we design and assemble electro-mechanical machines, video inspection camera systems and high-pressure water jetters that are built to last, easy to use, and ready ...

Spartan Tool

Winder

Niles, MI · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From our plant in Niles, Michigan, we design and assemble electro-mechanical machines, video inspection camera systems and high-pressure water jetters that are built to last, easy to use, and ready ...

Webforge

Maintenance Technician - 2nd Shift

Elkhart, IN

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for performing preventative maintenance & repairs on all plant equipment and facilities ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

RHP Staffing

Property Maintenance Worker

Edwardsburg, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... private owner and operator of manufactured home communities. With more than 380 communities ... Regularly treat for weeds, rake leaves, plant flowers/shrubs, spread mulch/woodchips/stones, trim ...

RHP Properties

Property Maintenance Worker

Edwardsburg, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... private owner and operator of manufactured home communities. With more than 380 communities ... Regularly treat for weeds, rake leaves, plant flowers/shrubs, spread mulch/woodchips/stones, trim ...

LAKE CABLE, LLC

Maintenance Technician

Elkhart, IN

$30 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Installation of both water and electrical plumbing * Support required ISO documents/records ... plant environment. The employee is exposed to loud continuous noise from surrounding operating ...

LAKE CABLE, LLC

Maintenance Technician

Elkhart, IN

$30 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Installation of both water and electrical plumbing * Support required ISO documents/records ... plant environment. The employee is exposed to loud continuous noise from surrounding operating ...

New

LAKE CABLE, LLC

Maintenance Technician

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Installation of both water and electrical plumbing * Support required ISO documents/records ... plant environment. The employee is exposed to loud continuous noise from surrounding operating ...

Spartan Tool

Shipping Receiving

Niles, MI

$15.50 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating forklifts or similar equipment required * Forklift certification or ... From our plant in Niles, Michigan, we design and assemble electro-mechanical machines, video ...

Refresco

Quality Technicians

Paw Paw, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform analysis on raw materials, finished batches, treated water and/or any other programmed ... Operating in a fast-paced production plant with numerous moving parts. Noise levels require hearing ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$27.7K

$52.9K

$86.2K

How much do water plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Three Rivers, MI is $52,896.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $60,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by water plant operator trainees during their initial training period?

Water Plant Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to rotating shifts, learning complex technical procedures, and understanding strict safety and regulatory requirements. They must quickly become familiar with the operation of specialized equipment and monitoring systems, as well as develop problem-solving skills to address equipment malfunctions or water quality issues. Teamwork is essential, as trainees frequently collaborate with experienced operators and maintenance staff to ensure smooth plant operations and compliance with environmental standards.

How hard is it to become a water plant operator trainee?

Becoming a water plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and passing a written exam that tests basic math and technical knowledge. Trainees often learn on the job and may need to obtain relevant certifications or licenses, which can involve additional training and testing. The difficulty varies depending on the individual's background and the specific requirements of the employer or jurisdiction.

Is it hard to become a water plant operator trainee?

Becoming a water plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic technical skills, and sometimes passing a written exam. The training involves learning about water treatment processes, safety protocols, and operating equipment, which can take several months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

What is a water plant operator trainee?

Water Plant Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to operate and maintain water treatment facilities. They assist experienced operators in monitoring equipment, testing water quality, and ensuring that treated water meets safety standards. Trainees typically work under supervision while they gain the knowledge and skills required to become certified water plant operators. Their responsibilities may include collecting samples, recording data, and performing basic maintenance tasks. Training often combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction, preparing them for state certification exams.

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

AspectWater Plant Operator TraineeWater Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma; some certifications may be preferredRequires relevant certifications or licenses, such as a state water operator license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in a water treatment plantFull responsibility for water treatment operations, maintenance, and safety
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning operational procedures, assisting with maintenance, gaining experienceOperating equipment, monitoring systems, ensuring water quality standards

The Water Plant Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Water Plant Operator is a fully qualified role responsible for managing water treatment processes independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water plant operator trainee?

To thrive as a Water Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and the pursuit of relevant operator certification is typical for this role. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for success. These competencies ensure safe, efficient water treatment operations and compliance with regulatory standards.

What cities near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Three Rivers, MI with the most Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Three Rivers, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,896 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Landscaping Site Crew Leader - (Direct report in Battle Creek) - Chauffeur's License REQUIRED

BrightView

Battle Creek, MI • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

BrightView Landscapes rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

The Best Teams are Created and Maintained Here.
This is NOT an entry-level position. Candidates must have at least 1 year of verifiable experience as a Landscaping Crew Leader/Foreman. Candidates with MDARD licenses will move to the top of the Candidate list.
STARTING PAY RANGE for this role IS $19 - $21 PER HOUR AND COULD INCREASE FROM THERE DEPENDENT UPON PREVIOUS WORK EXPERIENCE AND ANY CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES YOU HOLD.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF THE ROLE:
• Valid Driver's License: Applicants must hold a valid driver's license.
• Chauffeur's Endorsement: A chauffeur's endorsement or chauffeur's license is REQUIRED for this role and the PREFERRED Candidate already holds one. Candidates willing to obtain a Chauffeur's license, prior to starting work and at their cost will also be considered.
• Previous experience: minimum of 1 year Landscaping Crew Leader is necessary.
• DDOT Medical card: The PREFERRED Candidate already holds one. If you do not have a DDOT Medical Card you MUST be able to pass a Medical exam that includes a drug Test (this is a Federal requirement) post-offer and before starting work.
  • State of MI (MDARD) Pesticide licenses: The PREFERRED Candidate already has MDARD Licenses and is willing to maintain them and potentially add more as the need arises at the Company's cost.
  • Irrigation Experience: The PREFERRED Candidate has some experience in Irrigation troubleshooting and repair as well as Spring Start up and Fall Shut down and willing to assist, as needed in these tasks.
  • Hardscapes Experience is preferred.

If your resume does not show LANDSCAPING CREW LEADER EXPERIENCE; your Application WILL BE REJECTED - make sure your Landscaping experience and Landscaping Crew Leader work experience is on your resume. Applications without Resumes WILL BE REJECTED.
Job Summary
  • The Crew Leader is responsible for overseeing landscape operations at client sites, managing a crew of 2-5 team members to ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and to BrightView's quality standards. This role involves supervising a variety of service lines, including basic landscape maintenance, installation, and supportive services such as irrigation, seasonal color management, and chemical applications. The Crew Leader plays a key role in maintaining client satisfaction through effective team leadership and high-quality service delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Maintain a schedule and ensure service expectations are met
  • Surface customer problems or concerns and report back to Operations Manager
  • Assist in resolving issues with customer service when needed
  • Ensure work is performed safely and in accordance with company policies
  • Communicate regularly with Operations Manager to ensure client needs and expectations are consistently met or exceeded
  • Deliver services as specified on client sites
  • Assisting your team in safely and efficiently completed assigned tasks such as: Planting; Watering; Fertilizing; Digging and Raking just to name a few.
  • Installation of required materials for landscaping/irrigation/site development
  • Strong attention to detail and a Strong work ethic
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Bilingual (Spanish) - preferred
  • Experience using hand equipment with mechanized moving blades such as gas-powered shears
  • Experience using manual hand tools such as shovels and Experience using a hand shovel for extended period
  • Experience working from elevated heights such as an 8" A-frame ladder
  • Experience moving soil, equipment, and materials, digs holes, and plant trees, shrubs and flowers
  • Ability to work in extreme conditions - temperatures may exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and to work in direct sunlight for extended periods of time
  • Ability to lift and carry 40 lbs. (mulch, fertilizer, etc.)
  • Ability to load/unload burlaps with plant cuttings onto trailer (up to 50 lbs.)
  • Ability to work in/or about situations near direct automotive traffic
  • Ability to work near or about natural bodies of water
  • Ability to work 8+ hours per day with applicable breaks x 5 days/week (some overtime/weekend work required)
  • Coordinate service execution with Operations Manager
  • Oversee day-to-day site operations and delegate work to crew team members
  • Provide Operations Manager feedback on crew member(s) and Work with Operations Manager, helping to develop and train crew members
  • Ensure equipment preventative maintenance is performed as needed and equipment is in good working order and Log equipment usage and maintenance cycles
  • Confirming that all employees are operating safely at all times including reviewing potential traffic hazards; performing hard hat checks and safety gear checks; underground alert reviews; other trades hazard review and performing general public safety checks
  • Maintaining a hazardous communication folder including all relevant forms for chemicals used on the job site
  • Reporting reckless or dangerous activities to job Operations Manager; notify Operations Manager of any accidents and submitting accident reports according to Company policy
  • Participate in branch meetings as directed
    • Ensuring that all employees are attending the weekly tailgate meeting
  • Accurately capture and turn in crew time logs through electronic time capture (ETC)

Education and Experience:
  • BrightView Equipment certifications
  • Experience in a landscape-related field
  • Demonstrated leadership among the team and with peers
  • Valid Driver License (a Valid Chauffeur's license is required)
  • State issued Pesticide licenses is referred
  • Irrigation system repair experience is preferred

Additionally, employees are expected to abide by all internal control & compliance practices to:
  • Safeguard assets from theft and misuse
  • Ensure segregation of duties to minimize fraud
  • Comply with business ethics, applicable laws and regulation
  • Maintain confidentiality of proprietary information
  • Periodically reconcile physical assets to accounting records

Physical Demands/Requirements:
  • Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating company provided vehicles)
  • Possess strong stamina and have the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.
  • Able to safely operate landscaping equipment (e.g., mowers, trimmers, blowers, edgers).
  • Able to bend, stop and twist continuously throughout the day and perform manual labor using a variety of hand tools (e.g. shovels, rakes)
  • You are able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., safety shoes, high-visibility clothing, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, head protection)
  • Landscapers who will be operating a BrightView fleet vehicle are required to have a valid driver's license and meet company standards as it relates motor vehicle performance identified on a state issued motor vehicle record check.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or holidays if needed.
  • Ability to maintain, in your possession at all times, required medications to address any known allergic reactions should they occur.

Work Environment:
  • Ability to work outdoors/indoors in moderate to extreme weather conditions (e.g., temperatures more than 100°F, temperatures below 32°F, various levels of humidity)
  • Ability to work in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
  • Work outdoors near automotive traffic, bodies of water, fumes, dust, mechanical and/or electrical hazards.
  • Ability to work in environments where extended periods of loud noise are present.
  • Ability to work in environments where exposure to allergens such as pollen and rag weed, insects such as bees and spiders and reptiles such as lizards and snakes.

Perks:
  • Competitive salary
  • Paid time off
  • Red Wing Safety Boot Program
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

BrightView Landscapes, LLC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.
This job description is subject to change at any time
BrightView offers a suite or health, wellness, and financial benefits to full-time team members. Benefits offerings for full-time team members include medical, dental, and vision insurance, ancillary and voluntary products, a 401k savings plan with employer contributions, and 6 to 9 company paid holidays per year. Employees may also be eligible to receive paid time off for vacation and/or sick leave, tuition reimbursement, and/or potential variable pay opportunities based on position and performance. A detailed benefits package will be provided during the interview process.
It's Not Just a Team. It's One BrightView.

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