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Production & Manufacturing · Michigan

How to Become a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Michigan

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Michigan earn a median salary of $59,270/year, which is 1% below the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators takes home approximately $2,592/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$59K
Median salary in Michigan
-1%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
3,400
Employed in Michigan

What a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators can afford in Michigan

Gross annual salary$59,270
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$3,929/mo
Median 2BR rent (Michigan)-$1,337/mo
Rent as % of take-home34% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$59,270/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,592/mo

Becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Michigan

1

Meet education requirements

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in Michigan typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators positions in Michigan require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Michigan licensure or certification

Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operatorss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Michigan

Michigan employs 3,400 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators. The highest concentrations are in Ann Arbor and Monroe.

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary by metro area in Michigan

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Ann Arbor$67K$32.1/hr130
Monroe$65K$31.43/hr60
Lansing-East Lansing$63K$30.41/hr140
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn$62K$29.69/hr1,160
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood$61K$29.21/hr350
Flint$61K$29.12/hr160
Traverse City$60K$29.03/hr90
Niles$60K$28.82/hr70
Bay City$60K$28.66/hr80
Jackson$59K$28.42/hr50
Muskegon-Norton Shores$58K$28.06/hr40
Saginaw$53K$25.4/hr110
Battle Creek$52K$25.11/hr60
Kalamazoo-Portage$45K$21.53/hr50

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary range in Michigan

10th percentile (entry)
$47K
25th percentile
$50K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$65K
90th percentile (senior)
$76K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators make in Michigan?

The median water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary in Michigan is $59,270 per year ($28.49/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $60,020. Salaries range from $46,710 to $75,910.

What are the requirements to become a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Michigan?

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in Michigan typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators afford to live in Michigan?

At the median salary of $59,270, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Michigan would take home approximately $3,929/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,337/month, that's 34% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Michigan?

The highest paying metro areas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Michigan are Ann Arbor ($66,770), Monroe ($65,360), Lansing-East Lansing ($63,260). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Michigan have state income tax for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators?

Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $59,270 salary, this means roughly $2,519/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.