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Assistant Operator Jobs in Ethridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Tester (Test Operator)

Lewisburg, TN

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and safety requirements. * Assist with training ... Experience operating test equipment in a production environment preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

Tester (Test Operator)

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and safety requirements. * Assist with training ... Experience operating test equipment in a production environment preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

Operator, Production

Ethridge, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening ...

Operator, Production

Ethridge, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening ...

Follow Standard Operating Procedures established for each workstation. Maintain integrity of ... to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These ...

New

Today we are the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the world with 1200+ locations and are operating ... Pizza Hut Assistant Manager - Grow your career while making your customers and employees feel like ...

Today we are the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the world with 1200+ locations and are operating ... Pizza Hut Assistant Manager - Grow your career while making your customers and employees feel like ...

Today we are the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the world with 1200+ locations and are operating ... Pizza Hut Assistant Manager - Grow your career while making your customers and employees feel like ...

Today we are the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the world with 1200+ locations and are operating ... Pizza Hut Assistant Manager - Grow your career while making your customers and employees feel like ...

Today we are the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the world with 1200+ locations and are operating ... Pizza Hut Assistant Manager - Grow your career while making your customers and employees feel like ...

Today we are the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the world with 1200+ locations and are operating ... Pizza Hut Assistant Manager - Grow your career while making your customers and employees feel like ...

Proper operating techniques that do no cause machine damage and/or excessive tool wear * Perform ... Interpret Blue prints to produce parts to print specification * Assist team members in other areas ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Ethridge, TN salary details

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$18

$28

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Ethridge, TN is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $20.53 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 Ethridge, TN are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Ethridge, TN with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Ethridge, TN 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 $37,833 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Entry Level Production and Forklift Operators

Graphic Packaging International, Inc.

Lawrenceburg, TN • On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Graphic Packaging International rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description


Assistant Operators assist in operation of assigned and support equipment, including printers, metalizers, laminators, cutters, and gluers, by performing make-ready and ensuring that production and quality levels meet established standards. Independent judgment is necessary. Supervisor is usually available.

Job Functions:

  • Observes company safety rules and complies with safety practices.
  • Must have successfully completed Department Assistant I Checklist.
  • Capable of documenting quality checks required by work center.
  • Assists in safe and efficient operation of printers, metalizers, laminators, cutters, gluers, and all support equipment.
  • Aids in identifying and resolving process and machine problems.
  • Participates in make-ready preparation for assigned equipment.
  • Prepares necessary reports as required to accomplish production goals.
  • Performs general housekeeping functions in assigned area.
  • Responsible for compliance with all facility food safety, food defense, and quality policies and procedures including product safety (GMPs)/Sanitation policies and procedures. Employee must continually work to promote the orderliness and cleanliness of their work area in support of SQF/5S and other company standards.
  • Must be supportive of GPI's Mission, Vision, and Core Values (Integrity, Respect, Accountability, Relationships, and Teamwork).
  • Must be supportive and involved in GPI efforts for LEAN, 5's, Six Sigma and other Continuous Improvement programs and processes.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.
  • Strives to clearly understand customer requirements and delivers results to meet or exceed customer expectations.
  • Ability and responsibility to stop any process that is not meeting food safety requirements.
  • Ability and responsibility to stop any process that is not meeting customer quality requirements.

Required Skills

  • Frequent/strenuous physical effort (lifting, moving heavy objects, etc.) required.
  • Frequently exposed to conditions involving noise, fumes, and hazardous chemicals.
  • Graphic Packaging International is on a 7-day continuous operation. Must be able to work nights and overtime as required.

Required Experience

  • High School Diploma/Equivalent preferred.
  • At least 6 months of experience with the same or similar equipment is preferred.

At Graphic Packaging International (NYSE: GPK), we produce the box you may have poured your child's cereal from this morning, the microwaveable tray that heated your lunch, the paper cup that held your coffee throughout the day, and the carrier of those bottles of craft beer you may enjoy tonight! We're one of the largest manufacturers of paperboard and paper-based packaging for some of the world's most recognized brands of food, beverage, foodservice, household, personal care and pet care products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, we are a team of collaborative, innovative, passionate individuals who are committed to providing consumer packaging that makes a world of difference.


With almost 18,000 employees working in more than 70 locations in North and South America, Europe and the Pacific Rim, we strive to be an environmentally responsible leader in our industry and in the communities where we operate. We are committed to workplace diversity and offer compensation and benefits programs that are among the industry's best to reward the talented people who make our company successful.
If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, we'd love to hear from you. Learn more about us at www.graphicpkg.com.
Inspired Packaging. A World of Difference.


Graphic Packaging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications for the job in question. We do not base our employment decision on an employee's or applicant's race, color, religion, age, gender or sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic identity, genetic information, disability, veteran/military status or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law.Click here to view the EEO is the Law Poster


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