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Assistant Operator Jobs in Belleville, MI (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Machine Assistant

Livonia, MI · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Responsible for all activities associated with helping operators on all presses including setup ... Assist operator in other duties. Monitor board quality, including - loose liner, warp, dimensions ...

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

General Laborer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$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 ...

DTE Energy

Utility Technician - ByProducts

River Rouge, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

River Rouge, MI The Assistant Operator works directly with the Crew Leader to oversee operation and maintenance in the plant. This person will work directly with maintenance staff and interact with ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Belleville, MI salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Belleville, MI is $18.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $21.01 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 Belleville, MI are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Belleville, MI with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Belleville, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,778 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Machine Assistant

Pratt Industries

Livonia, MI • On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Responsible for all activities associated with helping operators on all presses including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations. Back up operator when operator is not available.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Set-up slotting, feed, and die cut sections on machine accurately in accordance with proper setup techniques.
Assist operator in other duties.
Monitor board quality, including - loose liner, warp, dimensions, caliper, and any other defects. Report any quality problems to the operator and sort as necessary to keep the machine running.
Work at pace set by the machine operator.
Cross-train on other machines as necessary.
Be willing to move up the line of progression to operator regardless of shift.
Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner.
Turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
Helps operators adhere to production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality and service goals. Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Supervisor.
Additional duties may be assigned by management.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or GED.
Candidates are PREFERRED who offer the following:
  • Prior work experience in the corrugated industry
  • 6 months' experience in manufacturing

Language Skills:
Able to read and follow instructions on factory masters.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, measurement, volume and rate. Able to apply concepts of high school math.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
The individual must have a working knowledge of the following:
Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation.
Product layouts and production specifications.
Product quality specifications.
Quality standards.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
May be required to maintain a current Lift Truck Operator License.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans
About Us:
Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest corrugated packaging company and the world's largest privately-held producer of 100% recycled containerboard. With over 9,000 skilled employees dedicated to sustainability, we pride ourselves on our commitment to the environment. Founded in the USA over 30 years ago, we have experienced significant growth with advanced manufacturing facilities across 27 states.

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