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Assistant Operator Jobs in Fort Smith, AR (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator Shift: Third Shift Hours: 10:45pm -; 6:45am Days: Sunday - Thursday Pay: $19.50 ... Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. * Assist in ...

Forklift Operator Shift: Second Shift Hours: 2:45 pm - 10:45 pm Days: Monday - Friday Pay: $19.50 ... Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. * Assist in ...

Forklift Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Transport raw materials and finished products between production and storage areas. * Assist with ... Minimum of 1 year of forklift operating experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.

Forklift Operator Shift: Third Shift Hours: 10:45pm -; 6:45am Days: Sunday - Thursday Pay: $19.50 ... Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. * Assist in ...

Forklift Operator Shift: Third Shift Hours: 10:45pm - 6:45am Days: Sunday - Thursday Pay: $19.50 ... Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. * Assist in ...

Forklift Operator Shift: Second Shift Hours: 2:45 pm - 10:45 pm Days: Monday - Friday Pay: $19.50 ... Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. * Assist in ...

Machine Operator

Poteau, OK · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Know the basics of hand tools (power tools, such as drills and grinders) * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product

Machine Operator

Poteau, OK

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Know the basics of hand tools (power tools, such as drills and grinders) * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product

Bottling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... Operator, and can be used as a "standard" Operator at any time. This is a safety sensitive role ... Tag and report all equipment defects on machinery and assist with repairs as needed. * Utilize ...

Bottling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... Operator, and can be used as a "standard" Operator at any time. This is a safety sensitive role ... Tag and report all equipment defects on machinery and assist with repairs as needed. * Utilize ...

Bottling Operator

Fort Smith, AR

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... Operator, and can be used as a "standard" Operator at any time. This is a safety sensitive role ... Tag and report all equipment defects on machinery and assist with repairs as needed. * Utilize ...

Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing ...

Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing ...

Forklift Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Forklift Operator » Date:Aug 20, 2026 Location: Fort Smith, AR, US Company: Leggett & Platt We ... Stacking empty pallets * Assist in unloading tankers. * Complete all necessary paperwork with a ...

Laser Operator 2nd shift

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Operate Amada laser cutting machine and assist other machine operators if needed. Set up machine based on material type and thickness. Load programs and set parameters to ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Fort Smith, AR salary details

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How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Fort Smith, AR is $19.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $21.59 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 Fort Smith, AR?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR are:

What cities near Fort Smith, AR are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Fort Smith, AR with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Fort Smith, AR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,782 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Fort Smith, AR

$19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

DHL Supply Chain is Hiring! At DHL, you will play a part in one of the world's most essential industries. There has never been a better time to join DHL Supply Chain. In a global business like ours, the opportunities are endless. So, join us. Work with us. Grow with us.

The core responsibilities of this role include: case picking; moving product with powered equipment such as Stand Up Reach, Electric Pallet Jack, Drexel; material handling that requires lifting up to 35 pounds.


Position: Forklift Operator

Shift: Third Shift

Hours: 10:45pm -; 6:45am

Days: Sunday - Thursday

Pay: $19.50 per hour + $0.75 Shift Differential

Required Qualifications: Minimum of 6 months experience operating in a very narrow aisle, electric pallet jack; stand up reach forklift; previous case picking experience.

Preferred Qualifications: previous experience using a stand up forklift; continuous physical demands such as lifting, bending, standing

In addition to the general job description below, the ideal candidate will also possess the following skills and/or experience: Loading/Unloading Tires, Lots of lifting, standing, bending and using Stand Up Reach Forklift, Material Handler, Loader/Unloader, Order Picking,A minimum of 6 month's experience operating material handling equipment is Preferred. Experience operating the Stand Up Reach truck is preferred.

Be part of the world's largest logistics company!DHL Supply Chain has been certified as a Great Place to Work in the US and Canada! Our excellent benefits packages includes:
- Affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage available beginning on your 30th day
- PTO program for all associates, including paid holidays and vacation
- 401(k) with generous company match
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Excellent training and career advancement opportunities

Grow your skills. Shape your world.


Role Purpose:

What will you do in this role? Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our warehouse environment. You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such as stand-up, sit-down, or clamp forklifts and electric pallet jacks.Our environment is team oriented, fast paced and safety focused. We move products that people need and want. At DHL, YOU will be an essential part of everyday life.

Key Accountabilities:

  • Load, unload, move, stock, and stage products and materials using various types of forklifts or other power equipment 80% of specified shift.
  • Pull and prepare product for shipment ensuring the exact number and types of product is loaded.
  • Keep appropriate records and reports for inventory accuracy.
  • Comply with all OSHA and MSDS standards.
  • Verify load accuracy; check the load count, stability, and product damage, report variances as necessary.
  • Change equipment battery or LP tank and monitor power source as necessary.
  • Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion.
  • Assist in physical inventories.
  • Complete daily inspection of equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Forklift operator certificate or satisfactory completion of a forklift-training program within the first 30 days of employment
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent, preferred
  • Six months warehouse experience, preferred
  • Six months forklift operation experience

Our Organization is an equal opportunity employer.

#LI-DNI

#LI-Onsite

Employment Type: FULL_TIME