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Assistant Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Piston Group

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

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 ...

Talascend

Forklift Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Operate forklifts, support packaging, ensure safety compliance, and assist in warehouse maintenance and quality programs. Job #136446 Manufacturing Blair, Nebraska Apply Now ...

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Overview The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Overview The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate, stack and ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Overview The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI

Assistant Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Detroit, MI is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $22.12 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 Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

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

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,808 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Decoration Assistant: Embroidery & Heat Press - Fulltime

Greyson Clothiers

Detroit, MI • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Decoration Assistant (Embroidery & Heat Press)
Department: Production
Reports to: Facility Operations Manager
Location: Onsite

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Decoration Assistant to support our production team across embroidery, heat pressing, finishing, and shipping operations. This role is ideal for someone eager to learn multiple aspects of apparel decoration, while ensuring high-quality results and efficient order fulfillment.

M-F 8AM - 4PM

Key Responsibilities

  • Hoop garments and prepare them for embroidery production.

  • Assist operators with loading/unloading items from embroidery machines.

  • Trim threads, cut excess backing, and inspect garments for quality.

  • Set up and operate heat press equipment for vinyl, DTF, and other transfers.

  • Align artwork accurately and ensure proper application settings (temperature, pressure, time).

  • Fold, bag, and box garments neatly according to packing requirements.

  • Label, stage, and prepare orders for shipping.

  • Create shipping labels and organize finished orders in staging areas.

  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.

  • Assist with other production tasks as needed.

Qualifications

  • Prior experience in embroidery or heat press production preferred, but not required (training provided).

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.

  • Comfortable performing repetitive tasks with consistency and speed.

  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods.

  • Dependable, punctual, and able to work effectively in a team setting.

  • Basic computer literacy is a plus (for running heat press software, shipping labels, etc.).

Compensation & Benefits

  • Accrued PTO (Full-Time)

  • Paid Sick Leave

  • 13 annual paid company holidays

  • Competitive employee discount

  • Paid Family Leave Program (maternity & bonding)

  • Company paid long-term & short-term disability insurance

  • Comprehensive Medical Coverage (medical, dental, vision) with company HSA contribution

  • Tax Advantage Accounts (FSA, HSA, FSA Dependent Care, 401k, 401k Roth)



Greyson Clothiers was born from the vision of uniting fashion and sport. With the principles of the wolf at the helm, Founder and CEO Charlie Schaefer built a team founded on camaraderie, loyalty, strength, and community. By crafting products that can perform at the highest level through superior tailoring and construction, Greyson has shattered the idea that sport, tailored fashion, and functionality cannot coexist. In our pursuit to redefine modern menswear, Greyson welcomes all those who strive for greatness to run along with our Pack.