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Assistant Operator Jobs in Alma, AR (NOW HIRING)

Mars

Operator 1 - Filler (Moore)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Effectively communicate with the team to prevent downtime and quality issues. * Assist in operating equipment for breaks and lunches or as needed. * Comply with Mars Petcare Quality and Food Safety ...

Mars, Incorporated

Operator 1 - Filler (Moore)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Effectively communicate with the team to prevent downtime and quality issues. * Assist in operating equipment for breaks and lunches or as needed. * Comply with Mars Petcare Quality and Food Safety ...

Covia

Utility Operator I

Fort Smith, AR

$25.15/hr

The Utility Operator is accountable to ensure the safe and productive operation of the plant ... Complete required paperwork in an orderly, accurate, and professional fashion. * Assist with any ...

Covia

Utility Operator I

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$25.15/hr

The Utility Operator is accountable to ensure the safe and productive operation of the plant ... Complete required paperwork in an orderly, accurate, and professional fashion. * Assist with any ...

CRH

3rd Shift - Machine Operator

Poteau, OK · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Know the basics of hand tools (power tools, such as drills and grinders) * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product

CRH

3rd Shift - Machine Operator

Poteau, OK · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Know the basics of hand tools (power tools, such as drills and grinders) * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product

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Assistant Operator information

See Alma, AR salary details

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$29

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Alma, AR is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $21.25 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 cities near Alma, AR are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Alma, AR with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Alma, AR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,178 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Operator 1 - Filler (Moore)

Mars

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

127th of 440 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:

Job: Operator 1 - Filler

Shift: Days

Location: Mar Petcare (Fort Smith, AR)

Mars Petcare is seeking Operator 1 - Filler to join our exciting pet food business at a Fort Smith, AR manufacturing plant. We focus on the unique needs of cats and dogs. Our obsession with detail allows us to deliver precise, effective nutrition and help them become their magnificent best.

As part of our overall total compensation package, Mars Petcare offers a competitive benefits package to all associates: Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance, Short- & Long-Term Disability, and 401k match. Associates are also immediately eligible (based on hire date) for up to three weeks of vacation, 12 Paid Holidays per year, Sick Pay, Maternity & Parental Leave, and annual bonus earning potential, plus many other ancillary benefits not listed here.

Responsibilities:

  • The ability to maintain safety standards by using LOTO and confined space entry procedures when working in the primary area of the factory.
  • The ability to load production materials into the primary piece of equipment, meeting corporate quality and safety standards in pet food manufacturing.
  • Assist product changeovers on a primary piece of equipment.
  • Effectively communicate with the team to prevent downtime and quality issues.
  • Assist in operating equipment for breaks and lunches or as needed.
  • Comply with Mars Petcare Quality and Food Safety Practices, GMPs, and other Food Safety and Regulatory Standards to ensure we manufacture a quality product.
  • Document quality attributes and provides production data for shift reports on a computer or IPad.
  • This position and all site associates are responsible for quality and food safety.
  • Able to lift and use 150-200, 40 pound bags of ingredients per day

Key Functional Skills/Knowledge:

  • Good knowledge of production processes, Good Manufacturing Practices, and other Food Safety and Regulatory Standards.
  • General understanding of Start Up, Operation, Shut Down, & Cleaning equipment
  • The ability to assist and troubleshoot equipment.
  • The ability to assist with quality checks and document results using a database collection system using a computer or IPad.
  • Food Manufacturing experience
  • Knowledge or Familiar with Nexus
  • Familiar with the MSDS database
  • Knowledge of Near Miss Reporting
  • Familiar with Adams Bradley Systems or other displays

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • 1+ years of manufacturing experience.
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds.
  • Ability to quickly respond.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time on hard surfaces
  • Computer / IPad literate with the ability to enter, record, maintain, and retrieve data.

What can you expect from Mars?

  • Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
  • Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
  • Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
  • An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Interested candidates must meet all qualifications to be considered for this position.

A Call to Veterans

Mars values the leadership, technical skills, and commitment to excellence that military veterans bring to our team. Your experience in mechanics, electronics, and operational discipline is highly transferable to this role. We strongly encourage you to apply.

About Mars, Incorporated

Mars is a family-owned business with over a century of history, making diverse products and offering services for people and the pets people love. With almost $35 billion in sales, the company is a global business that produces some of the world's best-loved brands: M&M's, SNICKERS, TWIX, MILKY WAY, DOVE, PEDIGREE, ROYAL CANIN, WHISKAS, EXTRA, ORBIT, 5, SKITTLES, UNCLE BEN'S, MARS DRINKS and COCOAVIA. Mars also provides veterinary health services that include BANFIELD Pet Hospitals, Blue Pearl, VCA and Pet Partners. Headquartered in McLean, VA, Mars operates in more than 80 countries. The Mars Five Principles - Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom - inspire its more than 100,000 Associates to create value for all its partners and deliver growth they are proud of every day.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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