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Assistant Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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.

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.

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI

$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.

Equipment Operator

Bloomfield Township, MI · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Supervision is exercised over lower level operators, Laborers, part time and seasonal employees or others, including outside contractors, assigned to assist the Road Division. Work is performed under ...

Sorting Operator Lead Location: Plymouth Pay: $18-$19 Are you looking to work somewhere that values ... Communicate production updates, concerns, and job changes across shifts * Assist with ...

Lead Equipment Operator

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Assist and coordinate the day-to-day field operations to ensure quality service and product line efficiency. Provide leadership to other operators and promote a positive employee/employer ...

Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Complete all required production and quality documentation accurately, preferably using computer-based systems. * Assist other operators, including OP1s, by preparing parts, making labels, and ...

New

Equipment Operator

West Bloomfield, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Key Responsibilities of the Equipment Operator: * Operates all equipment that is used in daily ... Operates sod cutter, spray rigs and may assist in the fertilization of greens, tees, fairways ...

Equipment Operator

West Bloomfield, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Key Responsibilities of the Equipment Operator: * Operates all equipment that is used in daily ... Operates sod cutter, spray rigs and may assist in the fertilization of greens, tees, fairways ...

Forklfit Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$17.50/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Warren, MI Pay Rate: $17.50 per hour Available Shifts: * 1st Shift: 6 ... Follow all company safety policies and procedures. * Assist with general warehouse duties as needed ...

Forklfit Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$17.50/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Warren, MI Pay Rate: $17.50 per hour Available Shifts: * 1st Shift: 6 ... Follow all company safety policies and procedures. * Assist with general warehouse duties as needed ...

Forklfit Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$17.50/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Warren, MI Pay Rate: $17.50 per hour Available Shifts: * 1st Shift: 6 ... Follow all company safety policies and procedures. * Assist with general warehouse duties as needed ...

Forklift Operator

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$15.50/hr

Ensure all items not required short term are restocked according to established procedure * Assist ... operated inside or outside the warehouse), mechanical abnormalities, and similar risk situations ...

Forklift Operator

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$15.50/hr

Ensure all items not required short term are restocked according to established procedure * Assist ... operated inside or outside the warehouse), mechanical abnormalities, and similar risk situations ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 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.

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 higher compensation due to the complexity of equipment or hazardous environments.

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 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.

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 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:

Utility Technician - ByProducts

DTE Energy

River Rouge, MI • On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 9 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states. But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences, and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.
EES Coke Operations is a facility in River Rouge, MI on Zug Island. The plant produces coke from various types of coal blends and is then used as fuel in the blast furnaces at the steel mill.
This is not a position with Detroit Edison, it's a position with EES Coke Battery, which is a subsidiary of DTE Energy.
The By Products department processes the gases driven off from the coking process and captures useful and salable by products, removes contaminants form the coke oven gas and treats the generated waste water.The position includes health, dental, vision, and prescription insurance starting day one of employment. This position also receives quarterly bonuses of up to $7,500 per year, based on EES Coke Battery's quality and production. The pay range for this position is $28.35, plus $0.50 extra per hour for shift work.The person in this job will work a 12-hour rotating shift. The schedule is a 4-week rotation; you will work 14 out of 28 days with 7 days off in a row somewhere within the 4-week rotation, overtime is required on an as needed basis. There are two shifts: day shift is from 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and the night shift is from 6:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m.
Job Summary
Location: 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 mechanics and electricians as needed on a day-to-day basis. They will be involved in developing maintenance plans to improve operating efficiency in the byproducts plant.
Key Accountabilities
  • Work with the rotating operating crew to safely and efficiently operate the byproducts plant
  • Learn the function, flow, and hazard associated with each process unit in the chemical plant
  • Assist in executing purge procedures in the plant
  • Maintains interpersonal relationships with individuals both external and internal to the organization
  • Be an active participant of developing and maintaining a culture of professionalism
  • Responsible for following all rules, policies, or expectations
  • Responsible for environmental compliance
  • Responsible for participating in safety activities to meet or exceed organizational goals and expectations

Qualifications
  • A high school diploma or GED and a valid driver's License
  • Manufacturing experience in an operating discipline preferred
  • Must have basic Microsoft Word and Excel experience
  • A thorough understanding of chemical plant safety standards and a focus on personal safety
  • Knowledge of pump and piping applications
  • Familiar with operation of automated computer controls in a chemical plant
  • Understanding of chemical processes, including distillation and chemical reactors
  • Familiar with industrial wastewater treatment and/or storm water discharge systems
  • Detail oriented individual with strong written and verbal skills
  • Strong safety experience
  • Ability to work in a team orientated atmosphere
  • Demonstrated capability to achieve results through people, technology and processing equipment
  • Must be goal oriented
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, coworkers, and management

Additional Qualifications
The physical demands characterized here epitomize those that must be met by an employee to properly perform the integral functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In order to properly perform the integral functions of this job, the employee is required to:
  • Sit, stand, or walk for a minimum of 8-hour shifts, including walking long distances, up and down stairs and on uneven ground.
  • Frequently lift objects of up to 70 pounds in weight, and carry objects of up to 50 pounds in weight. Occasionally the employee will have to push or pull objects of up to 100 pounds in weight.
  • Frequently climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch or occasionally, crawl.
  • Enter and work in confined space areas.
  • Talk & hear; use hands & fingers; handle & feel; and able to reach with hands and arms extensively.
  • Frequent operations of controls with occasional driving and fine hand function manipulations of tools and equipment.
  • Possess the following vision requirements: close, color, distance, peripheral, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Be clean shaven (except mustaches that are above the lower lip and do not affect the respirator seal) when reporting to work.
  • Frequently exposed to outside weather conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, and extreme heat and cold. Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and/or machinery and equipment with high temperatures. Occasionally exposed to vibration and fumes or airborne particles which will require the use of personal protective equipment including respirators; fire retardant clothing; self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), etc. Exposed to protected and unprotected heights, which requires the use of a personal fall protection system (harness/lifeline). The noise level in the work environment may occasionally go above the threshold, requiring PPE.

PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS
At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.

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