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Assistant Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Carlisle Companies, Inc.

Production Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Job Summary Operate machinery designed to perform a specific portion of the production process for Carlisle Companies Incorporated. Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework ...

Carlisle Companies, Inc.

Production Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Job Summary Operate machinery designed to perform a specific portion of the production process for Carlisle Companies Incorporated. Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework ...

Carlisle Companies, Inc.

Production Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Job Summary Operate machinery designed to perform a specific portion of the production process for Carlisle Companies Incorporated. Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework ...

seamancorp

Coating Production Assistant

Bristol, TN

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

In this role, you will be at the forefront of our brand-new hot melt calender line , operating ... Identify and assist operator to make minor mechanical or process adjustments to minimize downtime.

Seaman Corporation

Coating Production Assistant

Bristol, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

In this role, you will be at the forefront of our brand-new hot melt calender line , operating ... Identify and assist operator to make minor mechanical or process adjustments to minimize downtime.

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Assistant Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$17

$27

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Tennessee is $17.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $20.29 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,413 per year, or $18 per hour.

Assistant Operator, Distillation

Arcwood Environmental, LLC

Bristol, TN

$20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Assistant Operator, Distillation

Under the direction of the Control Panel Operator, Distillation and the facility Supervisor, you will be responsible for providing assistance for tasks identified as part of the Control Panel Operator’s check sheet, including the completion of consistent, hourly reviews of the facility to check and test various operating systems.

  • Prioritizes health and safety by adhering to policies, processes, and maintaining safe practices at all times
  • Utilizes and adheres to all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and policies
  • Conducts hourly reviews of the facility, checking and testing various operating systems
  • Facilitates the loading and unloading of tankers and dry vans
  • Operates various types of pumps and attaches hoses to tanks for the transfer of ethanol
  • Operates a forklift to load and unload drums and totes
  • Performs tests on incoming and production samples as needed; ensures all documentation and logs are accurate and complete and helps maintain appropriate filing
  • Serves as a resource to maintenance as needed
  • Takes on additional duties as assigned to support the team and organization

- High-school diploma or equivalent (required)
  • 1+ years of related experience (required)
  • Ability to operate a forklift as needed (required)

About Arcwood

Every advancement—from the products we use to the medicines and technologies we depend on—creates waste that must be handled responsibly. For more than 50 years, Arcwood Environmental has helped organizations across the United States manage the byproducts of progress safely and thoughtfully. With deep expertise and innovative waste management technology across a growing nationwide footprint, Arcwood protects people, communities, and the environment through work that often happens behind the scenes.

 

Our Values

We move forward together, one team with a shared purpose, counting on each other every day. Our core values demonstrate how we work together to deliver value for our customers, putting them at the center of all we do:

  • Lead with Safety: We uphold the highest safety and compliance standards to protect our teams, our customers and the communities that count on us.
  • Solve Problems Creatively: We push for better – advancing technologies, processes, and ideas that protect human health and the environment.
  • Own It Together: We are individually and collectively accountable for our work and our impact, knowing that progress is only achieved by working together – with our customers, and with each other.
  • Deliver for Customers: We put customers at the center of all we do. When we live our values – lead with safety, solving problems creatively, and owning our work together – the result is clear: we deliver exceptional value for our customers.

We’ve reached a unique point as a company: big enough to deliver broad capability and consistent performance, while striving to be nimbler and more responsive to our customers’ evolving needs. Come join Arcwood and be part of our legacy of environmental leadership!


Arcwood offers stability you can count on and opportunities to grow. We provide steady work, competitive pay, and above-market benefits that reflect the importance of what we do. As we continue to grow, youll have the chance to build skills, take on new challenges, and build a career. When you join Arcwood, you join a team that honors its legacy, values hardworking people, and shows up every day to protect people, communities, and the future we share.
Arcwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status, in accordance with applicable federal laws.
A post-offer drug screen and background check will be required.
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