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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Quality Technicians

Paw Paw, MI

$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 ...

Shipping Receiving

Niles, MI · On-site

$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 ...

Showing results 41-44

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:

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.

Quality Technicians

Refresco

Paw Paw, MI

$16.25 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Refresco rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 438 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Make a Difference in YOUR Career!

Our vision is both simple and ambitious: to put our drinks on every table.

We are the world’s largest bottler for retailers and A-brands.  Our products are distributed worldwide from our production sites in Europe and North America.  Although our own branding may not appear on the labels of the beverages we produce, there is a good chance you are reading this while sipping one of our drinks.

Our ambition is to continually improve and it’s what keeps us at the top of our game.  We are solutions-based.  We are innovative.  We seek out new challenges and conquer them.  This is our company ethos, but it’s our people’s too:  Refresco is at the cutting edge of a fast-moving industry because we have passionate people pushing the boundaries of what’s best.

Stop and think: how would YOU put our drinks on every table?

Summary Description:

Reporting to the Quality Supervisor, the Quality Technician is responsible for overseeing day-to-day quality operations for the production lines including the implementation and monitoring of food safety and food quality, sanitation and batching systems to facilitate compliance with company objectives and regulatory requirements. 

Shift: Applicants must be flexible to work varying shifts based on business needs, including weekends, overnights, holidays, and potential 10- or 12-hour schedules depending on the position.

Job Functions:

  •  Adhere to all health and safety policies/procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) while in the warehouse or production areas (including but not limited to hairnets/beard nets, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard toe and slip/oil resistant shoes, appropriate safety gloves, and seatbelts while operating forklifts).
  •  Responsible to adhere to food quality and food safety as per the standard(s) provided by corporate, customer, and/or governing bodies (ex. SQF).
  •  Ensure all products conform to the customer specifications as outlined in SAP system.
  •  Perform analysis on raw materials, finished batches, treated water and/or any other programmed outlines by the department.
  •  Conduct chemical and physical analysis on raw and intermediate processing materials including packaging materials and determine status of materials as acceptable or unacceptable.
  •  Evaluate finished products against current standards by performing audits to monitor all aspects of finished product and packaging integrity.
  •  Check process control parameters to assure proper equipment application and operation is being maintained by performing secure seal, closure torque, can seam checks, and/or any other requirements required by the customer or the company.
  •  Stop any production which may be questionable in terms of Food Safety and immediately alert a member of the management team.
  •  Maintain accurate, legible records of all tests and retests performed. Complete all other required reports (work orders, action reports, etc.) in a timely manner. 
  •  Perform analytical tests required to qualify ingredient batches for production.
  •  Perform production line checks at specified intervals.
  •  Ensure accurate test results by maintaining proper operation and calibration of laboratory equipment. 
  •  Maintain laboratory cleanliness at all times. 
  •  Report all out of specification results to designated leadership.
  •  Complete special projects and other reasonable duties as assigned by leadership.

Required Skills:

  • Working knowledge of Excel, Word, and SAP preferred.
  • Exposure to using measurement tools and equipment (e.g., calipers, micrometers, CMM machines) preferred.
  • Organized and detail oriented, adaptable to change.
  • High level of precision and accuracy in inspection and testing processes. 
  • Familiarity with SQF, SAP, Six Sigma, GMP, and other relevant standards and regulations  
  • Understanding of Food Safety Requirements.
  • Able to read and understand metric system.
  • Food or beverage laboratory experience preferred.

Competencies:

  •  Technical: Skilled in maintaining accurate and detailed records of inspections and tests
  •  Integrity: Commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in all quality assurance activities. 
  •  Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing production environments and requirements. 
  •  Communication: Clear and concise communication with production staff and management

Education and Experience:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent.
  • 1 – 3 years of experience in Quality within a manufacturing environment preferred.
  • In plants co-packaging alcoholic beverages, must be at least 21 years old.

Working Conditions:

  • Work Schedule: Weekdays, weekends, afternoon, evening, and overnight may be required. Overtime scheduled as needed.
  • Work Environment: Operating in a fast-paced production plant with numerous moving parts.  Noise levels require hearing protection and temperatures can get very hot and/or relatively cold (laboratory is temperature controlled). The environment is structured and supervised.

Travel Requirements:

  • 0% travel anticipated.

    Other Duties:

    • This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

    A Career with Refresco

    Refresco offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, which include:

      • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance    
      • Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts  
      • Life and AD&D Insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance 
      • Short-term disability and long-term disability   
      • Pet Insurance  
      • Legal Benefits  
      • 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match  
      • 12 Paid Holidays  
      • Vacation Days and Paid Sick Time Off Days
      • Well-being Benefit 
      • Discount and Total Reward Programs   

      Join Refresco TODAY and enjoy a rewarding CAREER! 

      Any employment agency, person, or entity that submits a résumé to this career site or a hiring manager does so with the understanding that the applicant's résumé will become the property of Refresco Beverages US, Inc.  Refresco Beverages, US Inc., will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person, or entity.  

      Employment agencies that have agreements with Refresco Beverages US, Inc., and have been engaged in a search shall submit a résumé to the designated Refresco recruiter or, upon authorization, submit a résumé to this career site to be eligible for placement fees.  

      Refresco Beverages US Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, Veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. 

      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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