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Assistant Operator Jobs in Chester, VA (NOW HIRING)

Sabert

Assistant Operator - Gluing - Day

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Day Shift 6AM-4PM Monday-Thursday The Assistant Operator plays a key role in ensuring efficient and compliant operations on the production line. This position supports machine operators during ...

Sabert

Assistant Operator - Gluing - Night

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Night Shift 6PM-4AM Monday-Thursday The Assistant Operator plays a key role in ensuring efficient and compliant operations on the production line. This position supports machine operators during ...

Sabert

Assistant Operator - Paper Bowls - Day

Richmond, VA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

* The Paper Bowl Assistant Operator supports the operation of paper bowl machines to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. The role involves loading raw material, clearing jams ...

Sabert

Assistant Trainee - Press - Night

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

The Press Assistant is responsible for assisting the Press Operator in setting up and operating a Press to produce print on label rolls as well as being able to operate a press or die-cutter with ...

Sabert

Operator Trainee - Paper Bowl - Day

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Provide hands-on support to Assistant Operators during start-ups, jams, adjustments, and troubleshooting * Assign and manage break schedules to maintain uninterrupted production * Operate a forklift ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Chester, VA salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Chester, VA is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $20.58 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 Chester, VA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chester, VA are:

What cities near Chester, VA are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Chester, VA with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Chester, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,933 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Assistant Operator - Gluing - Day

Sabert

Richmond, VA • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Sabert rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Day Shift 6AM-4PM Monday-Thursday

The Assistant Operator plays a key role in ensuring efficient and compliant operations on the production line. This position supports machine operators during changeovers, assists with troubleshooting, and may operate machinery when needed. The Assistant Operator is responsible for training new feeder/packers on quality standards and production speed, maintaining accurate records in SAP and on required documentation, and communicating any production or equipment issues to supervisors and team members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Operations

Assist the operator with changeover tasks, and troubleshooting machine problems at assigned machine to maintain established production rate.

Use machine controls to operate machine if operator is not available.

Train new packers on quality and speed.

Reporting and Record-keeping

Record scrap in SAP.

Record data on specified forms and complete required line documentation.

Communicate production and machine issues to the supervisor and other production personnel.

Maintenance

Maintain production supplies and materials in the work area.

Perform housekeeping and machine sanitation tasks to maintain a clean and orderly work area.

What Sabert employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Sabert logo

About Sabert

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sayreville, NJ, US

Year founded

1983

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