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Assistant Operator Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

Operator, Press

Moonachie, NJ · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Lead and direct assistant operator, including on the job training and mentor junior colleagues * Ensure Press Crew prepares Press Machine for the next job once current job is complete * Monitor Press ...

Shop Assistant/Driver

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

The Shop Assistant/Driver helps Print Operators and Technicians in their daily tasks, maintains order and cleanliness of the Shop, and packs and delivers product. The Shop Assistant/Driver ...

The Carpenter/Shop Assistant also helps Print Operators and Finishing Technicians in their daily tasks, maintains order and cleanliness of the shop, and packs and delivers product. The Carpenter/Shop ...

The Carpenter/Shop Assistant also helps Print Operators and Finishing Technicians in their daily tasks, maintains order and cleanliness of the shop, and packs and delivers product. The Carpenter/Shop ...

Shop Assistant/Driver

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

The Shop Assistant/Driver helps Print Operators and Technicians in their daily tasks, maintains order and cleanliness of the Shop, and packs and delivers product. The Shop Assistant/Driver ...

... to Operator. • Assist operator and first helper as necessary. • Be willing to move up the line of progression to operator regardless of shift. • Ensure correct bundle and unit counts. • ...

Travel CVOR RNFA

Browns Mills, NJ · On-site

$2.2K - $3.2K/wk

CT Assist is seeking a travel nurse RN CVOR First Assist for a travel nursing job in Browns Mills, New Jersey. & Requirements * Specialty: CVOR First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 01/04/2027

CVOR RNFA, Traveler

Browns Mills, NJ · On-site

$2.2K - $3.2K/wk

Certified by The Joint Commission CT Assist is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender ...

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Assistant Operator information

See New Jersey salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in New Jersey is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.69 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 New Jersey?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in New Jersey are:

What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities in New Jersey with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in New Jersey as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,850 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Maintenance Assistant/Operator

Readington Lebanon Sewerage

Whitehouse, NJ • On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Readington-Lebanon Sewerage Authority, a public entity in Whitehouse New Jersey, is seeking a full-time maintenance assistant/operator to assist the Administrator in the day to day operation of a 1.2 MGD treatment plant. Must be 18 years or older with a valid NJ drivers license.  Must be available to work weekends and Holidays on rotation and be on-call.  Includes health benefits, dental benefits, NJ PERS pension, mandatory overtime, and paid time off.  Must be able to start employment on or before 11/1/2026.  Salary range $45,000-$50,000 depending on qualifications. 

Physical requirements for maintenance assistant/operator

  • Physically participate in routine daily tasks
    • Sampling of wastewater and sludge
    • Valve turning
    • Equipment inspection and adjustment
    • Driving
    • Cleaning bar racks (bending and removing saturated debris)
    • Climb 3 flights of stairs carrying small loads
  • Physically participate in call-out and emergency situations
  • Operate Authority vehicles and heavy equipment (front end loader, utility vehicle, forklift)
  • Operate power washer, snow blower, powered snake
  • Use hand tools for preventive and corrective maintenance and repair
  • Stand and walk sustained
  • Crouch, bend and kneel, short duration
  • Lift 50 pounds intermittent (loading, unloading)
  • Lift 10 pounds sustained (tools, samples, supplies)

Candidate shall routinely

  • Be required to learn and perform basic laboratory skills
  • Run a belt-filter press
  • Assist maintenance Supervisor with
    • Equipment maintenance
      • Oil changes
      • Belt changes
      • Basic electrical
    • Collection system maintenance
      • Inspect pump stations
      • Clean rack debris
      • Record flows
      • Lift manholes and inspect structures
    • Plant maintenance
      • Install/remove pumps
      • Clean scum pits
      • Clean dumpsters
      • Basic piping installation
      • Grounds keeping
        • Mowing
        • Weed whacking
        • Edging/mulching
        • Painting
        • Gutter cleaning
        • Snow Removal

NOTE: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

REQUIREMENTS:

LICENSE:

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey and is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.


Salary/Compensation: $45,000 - $50,000 per year


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