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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Waverly, TN (NOW HIRING)

Create and maintain Process Flow, PFMEA, Standard Operating Procedures and Line Balance ... Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not ...

Create and maintain Process Flow, PFMEA, Standard Operating Procedures and Line Balance ... Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not ...

PLC Tech

Dickson, TN · On-site

$27.50 - $34.25/hr

... operator safety. * Identify and implement process improvements that reduce downtime, improve ... Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not ...

PLC Tech

Dickson, TN

$27.50 - $34.25/hr

... operator safety. * Identify and implement process improvements that reduce downtime, improve ... Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not ...

Apprentice Operator information

See Waverly, TN salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Waverly, TN is $17.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice operator?

Apprentice Operators are entry-level workers who are learning to operate machinery or equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. They typically participate in a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. The goal is to develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to perform the operator role independently. Apprentice Operators are common in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, and construction, where hands-on training is essential. Their responsibilities may include monitoring equipment, assisting with maintenance, and following safety procedures.

What can I expect during my first few months as an apprentice operator?

During your initial months as an Apprentice Operator, you'll primarily focus on learning operational procedures, safety protocols, and equipment handling under the guidance of experienced operators. You'll rotate through different stations, participate in hands-on training, and gradually take on more responsibility as you demonstrate competence. Close supervision and feedback are typical, as safety and accuracy are paramount in this role. Expect to work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration and clear communication are essential for smooth operations and troubleshooting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes entry-level certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation of machinery, which is critical to maintaining production standards and workplace safety.

What is the difference between Apprentice Operator vs Operator?

AspectApprentice OperatorOperator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training settingFull operational environment
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level rolesFull-time operational roles in manufacturing, utilities

The main difference between an Apprentice Operator and an Operator is experience and certification level. Apprentice Operators are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Operators have completed training and are fully responsible for operations. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Operators handle daily operational tasks independently.

What cities near Waverly, TN are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities near Waverly, TN with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Waverly, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,534 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Punch Press Operator 2nd Shift 3005

Lexington, TN • On-site

Nidec Corporation
Appliances and Electrical and Electronics Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operates notchers and presses according to established procedures and guidelines.

  • Performs quality checks and maintains a clean work area.

  • Follows safety practices and performs other duties as assigned by supervisor or team leader.


Nidec rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We begin with dreams. Dreams drive our motivation. Dreams are our future. The world's dreams, people's dreams, our dreams. Our passion creates ideas that make dreams come alive. Technology and products that were only dreams become reality.
All for dreams. Dreams challenge and the Nidec-Group will continue to meet the challenge. For the world's and people's tomorrows; the world's first, the world's best technologies and products; we will continue our part in creating a better society.
Job Summary
Nidec is the world's No.1 comprehensive motor manufacturer handling "everything that spins and moves", miniature to gigantic. Nidec is a global enterprise comprised of over 300 subsidiaries/affiliates. We are a leading manufacturer of commercial motors, industrial motors, appliance motors, and controls. Our product line features a full line of high efficiency motors for industrial applications in water treatment, mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa, condensers, cooling towers and large refrigeration units.
From keeping us comfortable in our homes to pumping clean water to making our cars more safe, electric motors are an indispensable part of our daily lives. At Nidec, our employees are on the forefront of developing new motor technologies. As we move deeper into the age of robotics, the impact of motors will only increase.
With over 140,000 employees stationed worldwide, Nidec continues to be a unique organization, and each location maintains its individual personality.
Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm, Nidec electric power generation products impact the world on a daily basis. With over 1,000 employees in the Americas, we are moving forward with technology to solve our customers' electrical power needs for both prime and backup generation needs as the industry's leading manufacturer
Job Description
Sets up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, position and secure machinery. Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty with 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager.
Additional Job Details
Position Summary:
Operates notchers and presses and performs quality checks.
Duties & Responsibilities Information:
  • Operates a variety of notchers and single station presses
  • Follows standard methods and instructions, maintains quality and makes decisions involving tolerances, operational and setup sequences
  • Performs quality checks
  • Maintains clean work area
  • Exercises good housekeeping in work area
  • Observes good safety practices in performance of job
  • Performs other job duties as assigned by Supervisor and Team Leader

Necessary Skills:
  • Requires ability to read precision measuring instruments and engineering drawings

Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action at Nidec
Nidec is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, genetic information, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following website: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf
Work Shift Schedule
First Shift (United States of America)
No Soliciting
Nidec will not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to Nidec job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Nidec Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Nidec Talent Acquisition team.

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