ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Webforge

Maintenance Technician

Elkhart, IN · On-site

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 ...

LAKE CABLE, LLC

Maintenance Technician

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

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

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

Spartan Tool

Shipping Receiving

Niles, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

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

Modine Manufacturing Company

Assembler

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... water consumption, lower harmful emissions, enable cleaner running vehicles, and use ... Plant Manager POSITION DESCRIPTION: Job Opportunity: Sheet Metal Fabricator - Build with Purpose ...

previous page

Showing results 41-52

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 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.

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.

How to get hired as a water plant operator trainee?

To become a water plant operator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training or coursework, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Employers often require basic knowledge of water treatment processes, safety procedures, and may prefer candidates with some experience or certifications such as a state-issued water operator trainee license. Applying to municipal or private water treatment facilities and demonstrating a willingness to learn are key steps in securing a trainee position.

Is being a water plant operator trainee worth it?

A water plant operator trainee role provides hands-on experience in water treatment processes, often leading to certification and career advancement in the utility industry. The job typically involves working with control systems, monitoring water quality, and following safety protocols, making it a valuable entry-level position for those interested in public utilities and environmental management.

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. Training programs often last several months and include classroom instruction and on-the-job experience, with certifications like a state operator license usually needed for advancement.

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 43% Full Time, 55% 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.

Maintenance Technician

Valmont Industries, Inc.

Elkhart, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform preventative maintenance and repairs on plant equipment and facilities.

  • Participate in the installation of new equipment and perform major repairs on older equipment as needed.

  • Respond to emergency requests, support manufacturing demands, and perform general maintenance tasks.

Valmont Industries rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

3403 Charlotte Ave Elkhart Indiana 46517-1150
Why Valmont
We're Here to Move the World Forward.
Valmont impacts millions of people around the world every day, yet they might not realize the many ways. Our technology is helping feed the growing population, supplying the world with more reliable energy and access to renewables, enhancing connectivity in remote and urban locations to create a sustainable future and so much more. Simply put, Valmont is advancing agricultural productivity and reimagining vital infrastructure to make life better.
Join a Fortune 1000 company that respects hard work, honors diversity and invests in our employees as we focus on creating the world of tomorrow, today. We are the modern workforce. Are you ready to move the world forward? Apply now.
This is a 1st shift position.
  • Responsible for performing preventative maintenance & repairs on all plant equipment and facilities including hydraulic machines, presses, shears, cranes, welders, mechanical clutches, drive trains, etc.
  • Responsible for the repair of worn parts, straightens and fabricates fixtures
  • Participates in the installation of new equipment
  • Performs major repairs/replaces parts on older equipment as needed and per the PM schedule.
  • Seeks out opportunities for efficiencies and improvements within the maintenance department.
  • Performs maintenance tasks according to support the minimization of downtime.
  • Supports manufacturing demands including working during non-peak hours (e.g., off-shifts, holidays, weekends, etc.) as required/assigned to complete necessary maintenance tasks.
  • Respond to on-duty emergency requests and after-hours call-ins as needed.
  • Performs strategic preventative maintenance; continuous improvement of maintenance systems and practices.
  • Performs general maintenance tasks including buildings, grounds, (snow removal), etc.
  • Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and work both in a non-temperature controlled environment and outdoors.
  • Ability to coordinate maintenance activities with other departments.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical drawings.
  • Uses troubleshooting aids, such as volt, ohm and amp meters, meggers, anemometers, tachometers and any other tool used to diagnose equipment to interpret readings
  • Perform pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical electronic troubleshooting and repair plant production equipment.

Important Details about the Role
  • The Maintenance Technician is expected to work independently and to be responsible for their own work product in both efficiency and quality
  • Must be able to evaluate/analyze a wide variety of equipment/machinery issues related to standardized situations and either have the solution, know how to get the solution, or know who to contact to provide the solution
  • Must display an aptitude for problem solving and the ability to plan for or around future needs or problems.
  • Must be able to determine when equipment should be removed from service or returned to service
  • Must be able to identify and report hazards.
  • Must be able to work with other employees to complete job.
  • This position reports to the Production Supervisor or Maintenance Lead as directed.

Required Qualifications (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities)
  • Six (6) to Nine (9) years of experience in industrial/manufacturing maintenance is preferred.
  • Associates degree in industrial maintenance, engineering and/or equivalent years of experience.
  • Requires working knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, mechanics or electrical applications.
  • Basic working knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Outlook or similar email software.
  • The ability to work in a team environment with a diverse group of people.
  • The ability to meet production, safety, and quality standards in a fast-paced working environment.
  • Ability to be Valmont trained and certified in operation of forklift.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment and follow facility safety regulations.
  • Physically capable and available to work overtime including weekends, public holidays, and evenings.
  • Must be available for on-call rotation.
  • Ability to read and understand blue prints.
  • Experience performing all position arc and wire feed welding on steel and aluminum.
  • Experience with pneumatics, hydraulics, water and natural gas plumbing.
  • Experience with mills/lathes.
  • Must be a person of passion and integrity who has the drive to excel and deliver exceptional results.

Benefits
Valmont offers employees and their families a comprehensive Total Wellbeing benefit package to ensure their individual and family's overall wellness needs are met. Some offerings are dependent upon the role, work schedule, or location and can include the following:
  • Healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental and vision)
  • 401k retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Employer paid life insurance
  • Employer paid short-term and long-term disability including maternity leave
  • Work Life Support
  • Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,250 per year
  • Voluntary programs like tobacco cessation, Type 2 diabetes reversal, one-on-one health coaching, mortgage services and more

Valmont does not discriminate against any employee or applicant in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
If you have a disability and require any assistance in filling out the application for employment email EEOCompliance@Valmont.com.

What Valmont Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply