Apprentice Power Plant Operator

ZipRecruiter; City of Elmira (NY); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join Wolverine Power Cooperative as an Apprentice Power Plant Operator in Elmira, Michigan, where you'll learn to operate and maintain gas turbines. This hands-on role offers structured training to build your skills in the power industry, combined with a strong commitment to safety and teamwork.

Benefits

Pension plan

401(k) with employer match

Zero-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Generous paid time off and holidays

Educational assistance and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Mechanical or electrical experience preferred.
• Ability to complete online coursework outside work.
• Commitment to safety and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Operate gas turbines and auxiliary equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor mechanical repairs.
• Record equipment readings and make real-time adjustments.

Skills

Mechanical mindset

Desire to learn

Basic computer proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

Join the Team That Powers & Protects

At Wolverine Power Cooperative, we help keep the lights on by generating reliable and affordable power for the communities we serve. As a member-owned, mission-driven electric utility, we're committed to innovation, sustainability, and long-term energy solutions.

We're currently seeking an Apprentice Power Plant Operator to join our team in Elmira, Michigan. In this hands-on role, you'll be part of the team responsible for safely operating and maintaining Wolverine's gas turbine electric facilities.

A Day in the Life:

As an Apprentice Power Plant Operator, you'll work under the guidance of a Chief Plant Operator as you progress through a structured training program designed to grow your skills and expertise.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Learning to operate gas turbines and auxiliary equipment
• Performing routine maintenance and minor mechanical repairs
• Recording equipment readings and making real-time adjustments
• Supporting switching orders and Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures
• Keeping systems running at optimal temperatures, pressures, and lubrication levels

This role requires the ability to work rotating shifts—including weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime—and may include travel to other Wolverine sites as needed.

What We're Looking For:

We're seeking someone with a mechanical mindset, a strong work ethic, and a desire to learn the power industry from the ground up.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A high school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Mechanical or electrical experience (preferred)
• Basic computer proficiency
• A valid Michigan driver's license
• The ability to complete online apprentice coursework outside of work hours
• A commitment to safety, good judgment, and teamwork
• A willingness to work rotating shifts and respond to short-notice scheduling needs

Experience in power or maintenance is a plus—but if you have the right attitude and are eager to learn, we'll teach you the rest.

Why Join Us?

At Wolverine, we don't just offer jobs—we build long-term careers. We invest in our people and believe that a strong team culture drives our collective success.

Here's what you can expect as a Wolverine employee:

• Pension plan
• 401(k) with employer match
• Zero-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance for your entire family
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Life, short-term, and long-term insurance
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Educational assistance and development opportunities
• A supportive team culture grounded in safety, service, and innovation

About Wolverine Power Cooperative:

Headquartered in Cadillac, Michigan, Wolverine Power Cooperative is a not-for-profit transmission cooperative owned by seven member electric co-ops throughout Michigan. We serve over 260,000 homes, farms, and businesses with reliable, affordable power every day.

If you're ready to build a career in energy and be part of a team that makes a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you're passionate about this role but don't meet every qualification, we still encourage you to apply. Your unique experiences and perspectives help us grow stronger as a team.

Wolverine actively seeks a diverse workforce and ensures all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, marital status, genetic disposition, or any other legally protected status.

Job Posted by ApplicantPro