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

Silgan

Operator Assistant

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Successful completion of all training modules for Operator Assistant position. SKILLS: Required: Additional training requirements are identified and arrangements for the training made when needed.

Silgancontainers

Operator Assistant

Fort Smith, AR

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Successful completion of all training modules for Operator Assistant position. SKILLS: Required: Additional training requirements are identified and arrangements for the training made when needed.

New

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$19.50/hr

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 ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$19.50/hr

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 ...

CRH

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

CRH

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

Rockline Industries

Entry Operator - G Shift

Booneville, AR

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Must be able to complete all Essential Functions listed in the Packer/Palletizer Position Description. * Assist in training new team members; to include Packers/Palletizers and new Entry Operators.

Rockline Industries

Entry Operator - D Shift

Booneville, AR

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Must be able to complete all Essential Functions listed in the Packer/Palletizer Position Description. * Assist in training new team members; to include Packers/Palletizers and new Entry Operators.

Pernod Ricard USA

Bottling Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16 - $19.25/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 ...

Pernod Ricard

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 ...

Pernod Ricard USA

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 ...

Rockline Industries

Entry Operator - F Shift

Booneville, AR

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Must be able to complete all Essential Functions listed in the Packer/Palletizer Position Description. * Assist in training new team members; to include Packers/Palletizers and new Entry Operators.

Pernod Ricard

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 ...

Rockline Industries

Entry Operator - E Shift

Booneville, AR · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Must be able to complete all Essential Functions listed in the Packer/Palletizer Position Description. * Assist in training new team members; to include Packers/Palletizers and new Entry Operators.

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Assistant Operator information

See Fort Smith, AR salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 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 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:
Assistant Operator jobs near you

Operator Assistant

Silgan

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Silgan Holdings rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Major Responsibilities:
  • Packages WIP and finished product from RTF and/or Printing lines
  • Runs the scoring machine
  • Reports any non-conformances noted during packing to the operator
  • Reworks nonconforming product in accordance with documented work instructions
  • Responsible for food safety by performing checks to maintain quality standards
  • Works 12-hour shifts standing on concrete
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis throughout 12-hour shift
  • Go up steps periodically throughout the day
  • Work in the heat (This is a Non-temperature controlled environment)
  • Performs other designated duties as assigned
  • Conducts duties according to plant safety policies and procedures
  • Schedule: Rotational with every other weekend off

EDUCATION: Preferred: High School diploma or equivalent.
EXPERIENCE: Required: Successful completion of all training modules for
Operator Assistant position.
SKILLS: Required: Additional training requirements are identified and
arrangements for the training made when needed.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (if applicable):
The physical demands are representative of the physical requirements
necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions
of the Operator Assistant job. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the described essential functions.
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.
Silgan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or the presence of a disability, which would not prevent the performance of essential job duties with, or without reasonable accommodation of any other protective status.
Silgan is a drug-free workplace.

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