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Assistant Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

General Laborer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Follow all safety procedures while operating and assisting on equipment. i.e. coil cart, banding tools, overhead cranes, forklifts. * Assist where needed when slitter is not running. * Maintain ...

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

General Laborer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Follow all safety procedures while operating and assisting on equipment. i.e. coil cart, banding tools, overhead cranes, forklifts. * Assist where needed when slitter is not running. * Maintain ...

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

General Laborer

Detroit, MI

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Follow all safety procedures while operating and assisting on equipment. i.e. coil cart, banding tools, overhead cranes, forklifts. * Assist where needed when slitter is not running. * Maintain ...

pregis

Night Shift Extrusion Technician

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Assistant Operator / Extrusion Technician Night Shift Schedule: 5:45PM - 6:00AM Rotating 2-2-3 Schedule Location: Grand Rapids, MI The Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the production team ...

Westrock

Press Operator Assistant

Allegan, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

General Information Job ID ATR65566 Posting Job Title Press Operator Assistant Locations MI Allegan Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 07-Aug-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements ...

Smurfit Westrock

Press Operator Assistant

Allegan, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

General Information Job ID ATR65566 Posting Job Title Press Operator Assistant Locations MI Allegan Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 07-Aug-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements ...

Interim HealthCare

Hospice CNA

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

As a CNA for Interim HealthCare Hospice you'll join an organization that cares for its staff as ... Family owned and operated * Paid mileage * Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Company ...

New

Interim HealthCare

Hospice CNA

Grandville, MI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

As a CNA for Interim HealthCare Hospice you'll join an organization that cares for its staff as ... Family owned and operated * Paid mileage * Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Company ...

Pregis

Day Shift Extrusion Technician

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Assistant Operator / Extrusion Technician Day Shift Schedule: 5:45AM - 6:00PM Rotating 2-2-3 Schedule Location: Grand Rapids, MI The Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the production team ...

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Michigan

Assistant Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Michigan is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant operator?

Assistant Operators are entry-level professionals who support the operation of machinery or equipment in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or logistics. They work under the supervision of senior operators to help monitor processes, perform basic maintenance, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Their responsibilities may include setting up machines, loading materials, inspecting products, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Assistant Operators play a key role in maintaining efficient production and minimizing downtime. This position is often a stepping stone to more advanced operator roles.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, control panels, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good teamwork skills help you excel in supporting smooth operations. These skills ensure safe, efficient production processes and help maintain workplace safety and productivity.

What are some common challenges assistant operators face during shift changes, and how can they be managed effectively?

Assistant Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as incomplete handovers or miscommunication about ongoing tasks. To manage these effectively, it’s important to follow standardized handover procedures, maintain accurate and up-to-date logs, and communicate proactively with both outgoing and incoming team members. Building strong teamwork and attention to detail helps ensure a smooth transition and minimizes operational disruptions.

What is the difference between Assistant Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssistant OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in setup, monitoring, and maintenance of machineryOperates machinery directly, responsible for production output
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, construction, and industrial plantsPrimarily in manufacturing, processing, and production facilities

Assistant Operators support Machine Operators by preparing equipment and monitoring processes, while Machine Operators handle the direct operation of machinery. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in industrial settings, but Machine Operators have more responsibility for operating equipment independently.

Which assistant operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying assistant operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, or power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry, with some positions offering significantly higher compensation due to the complexity and risk involved.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,929 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Machine Operator Assistant (Corrugation Dept)

Workbox Staffing

Holland, MI • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Machine Operator Assistant
Location: Holland, MI
Shift: 2:00 PM–10:00 PM | Monday–Friday
Pay: $18.00/hour

Job Summary
We're looking for a dependable and hardworking Machine Operator Assistant to join our manufacturing team in Holland, MI. In this role, you'll work alongside Machine Operators to keep production equipment supplied with materials, assist with machine operations, and help ensure quality products are produced efficiently. The ideal candidate enjoys hands-on work, works well as part of a team, and is interested in developing machine operation skills.
What You'll Be Doing
As a Machine Operator Assistant, your core responsibilities will include:
  • Machine Support: Assist Machine Operators with running converting equipment used to produce corrugated products.
  • Material Handling: Load, unload, stage, and supply materials to machines to keep production running efficiently.
  • Machine Setup: Assist with equipment setup, changeovers, adjustments, and preparation for production runs.
  • Quality Control: Inspect products throughout the production process to ensure they meet company and customer quality standards.
  • Production Support: Remove finished products from equipment, organize materials, and help maintain production schedules.
  • Troubleshooting Assistance: Work with Machine Operators and team members to identify and resolve basic production or equipment issues.
  • Safety & Housekeeping: Maintain a clean and organized work area while following all company safety procedures.
In addition, you may assist with packaging, material movement, and other production duties based on business needs.
What We're Looking For
Qualifications
  • Previous manufacturing, production, or warehouse experience preferred.
  • Machine operation experience is a plus but not required.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions.
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
  • Willingness to learn machine operation and production processes.
Skills
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Comfortable working around manufacturing machinery and learning equipment operations.
  • Material Handling: Ability to safely move and stage production materials.
  • Quality Control: Strong attention to detail when inspecting finished products.
  • Teamwork: Ability to work closely with Machine Operators and other production employees.
  • Problem-Solving: Willingness to learn and assist with basic machine and production troubleshooting.
  • Safety Awareness: Commitment to following workplace safety procedures and maintaining an organized work environment.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
  • Ability to bend, reach, twist, and perform repetitive movements.
  • Ability to safely handle production materials and finished products.
  • Ability to maintain a steady production pace in a manufacturing environment.
Why Join Us?
Ready for a day in the life of a Machine Operator Assistant? This second-shift opportunity offers $18.00/hour, consistent Monday–Friday hours, and the chance to gain valuable machine operation experience while working with a team focused on safety, quality, and productivity.
Workbox Staffing Benefits
  • Weekly Pay
  • Hire-in Opportunities
  • Benefits including Health, Life, and Dental
  • Veteran-Friendly and Equal Opportunity Employer
Let's go to work! Apply online today!