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Assistant Operator Jobs in Gardner, MA (NOW HIRING)

Balance Professional

Machine Operator

Gardner, MA

$18 - $21.50/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist with the setup, start-up, and shutdown of cabling production lines following standard operating procedures. * Operate cabling equipment including ...

Micro Tech Staffing Group

Cable Operator

Gardner, MA · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

This position will assist with machine setup, start-up, shutdown, reel changes, material changeovers, and production transitions. The operator will load and verify conductors, fillers, binders, and ...

The DAVIS Companies

SMT Operator

Westford, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

SMT Operator - Contract, Hiring Now The SMT Operator position is available in Westford, MA. This ... Perform basic maintenance and assist maintenance technicians as needed. * Identify and report ...

Manufacturing Company

Forklift Operator

Worcester, MA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Perform stock rotation and follow FIFO procedures * Assist with general warehouse and housekeeping ... Prior experience operating a forklift required; certification preferred * Ability to safely lift up ...

TALENIQUE INC

Forklift Operator

Ayer, MA · On-site

Description: 2nd & 3rd Shift Forklift Operator The leading provider of conventional, Non-GMO ... When completed with all tasks, actively assist other warehouse personnel complete their tasks p.

Savvy Staffing Solutions, LLC

Be Seen First

Power Equipment Operator

Clinton, MA · On-site

$21/hr

Power Equipment Operator / Stand-Up Forklift / Cherry Picker 2nd Shift, Monday-Friday ... Handle merchandise carefully to prevent damage. * Assist with loading/unloading and processing ...

Vanguard Renewables

Biogas Operator

Spencer, MA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Supports and promotes the philosophy of maintaining an accident/incident free workplace. * Assist ... Maintenance and operating experience in an industrial or gas processing environment. * Ability to ...

Pacer Staffing

Forklift Operator

Lunenburg, MA

$20 - $21.76/hr

Forklift Operator - Shipping Team Location: Lunenburg, MA 01462 Duration: 3+ Months (Potential ... Safely change forklift propane tanks Assist other departments as needed. Perform other duties as ...

Adecco

Manufacturing Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

$19.50 - $19.64/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment, monitoring product quality, and ... Support continuous improvement and safety initiatives * Assist with additional production duties as ...

Adecco

Manufacturing Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

$19.50 - $19.64/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment, monitoring product quality, and ... Support continuous improvement and safety initiatives * Assist with additional production duties as ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Forklift Operator

Devens, MA · On-site

$21.76/hr

FORKLIFT OPERATOR IN DEVENS, MA Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Forklift Operator to ... Safely change forklift propane tanks * Assist other departments as needed * Perform other duties as ...

Seaman Paper

Machine Operator

Orange, MA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Machine Operator Location: Orange, MA Pay: $18.00-$25.00 per hour Schedule: Full-Time Keep ... Perform basic troubleshooting and assist with light equipment maintenance. * Keep machinery and ...

Managed Staffing

Utility Operator

Worcester, MA · On-site

... May assist in receiving/shipping by unloading trucks and crating finished goods -Detects and ... Utility Operators may have the responsibility for completing projects or work assignments as ...

Vanguard Renewables

Biogas Operator

Spencer, MA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Supports and promotes the philosophy of maintaining an accident/incident free workplace. * Assist ... Maintenance and operating experience in an industrial or gas processing environment. * Ability to ...

Vanguard Renewables

Biogas Operator

Spencer, MA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Supports and promotes the philosophy of maintaining an accident/incident free workplace. * Assist ... Maintenance and operating experience in an industrial or gas processing environment. * Ability to ...

Adecco

Machine Operator

Greenville, NH

$18 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Shift: Monday - Thursday | 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour (based ... Troubleshoot minor machine issues and communicate larger concerns to maintenance * Assist with ...

Adecco

Machine Operator

Greenville, NH

$18 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Shift: Monday - Thursday | 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour (based ... Troubleshoot minor machine issues and communicate larger concerns to maintenance * Assist with ...

Kelly Services

Forklift Operator

Lunenburg, MA

$21.76/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Lunenburg, MA Schedule: Monday through Friday, 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM Pay ... Support production lines and assist other departments as needed * Maintain a clean and safe work ...

Axelon

Forklift Operator

Lunenburg, MA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Industrial Forklift Operator Location: Lunenburg, MA Duration: 3 Months Shifts: 2nd Shift, 1p-9p ... Safely change forklift propane tanks. * Assist other departments as needed and perform other duties ...

AZZ

Forklift Operator

North Brookfield, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Responsible for careful loading of product and quality crate building to assist with customer ... All forklift operators must have either a valid driver's license or a medical clearance from a ...

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Gardner, MA

Assistant Operator information

See Gardner, MA salary details

$11

$20

$32

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Gardner, MA is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $23.70 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 Gardner, MA are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Gardner, MA with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Gardner, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,673 per year, or $21 per hour.

Machine Operator

Gardner, MA

Balance Professional
See more jobs at Balance Professionalexternal

$18 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Cable Operator is a manufacturing position within a wire and cable production environment. This role is responsible for operating cabling equipment used to assemble multiple insulated conductors into finished cable constructions. The Cable Operator supports safe, efficient, and high-quality production while ensuring compliance with work orders, engineering specifications, and quality standards. This position works closely with lead operators, supervisors, and quality personnel to maintain proper cable geometry, alignment, and overall product integrity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist with the setup, start-up, and shutdown of cabling production lines following standard operating procedures.
  • Operate cabling equipment including payoffs, cablers, binders, fillers, and take-up systems.
  • Read, understand, and follow work orders, setup sheets, and production documentation.
  • Load, stage, and verify correct materials such as insulated conductors, fillers, binders, and reels prior to production.
  • Monitor cabling parameters including line speed, tension, lay length, and conductor alignment during operation.
  • Perform basic machine adjustments under the guidance of senior operators or supervisors.
  • Inspect in-process and finished cable for defects such as improper lay, conductor misalignment, insulation damage, or dimensional variation.
  • Use measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, diameter tape, and gauges to verify product specifications.
  • Accurately complete production reports, quality checks, and material traceability documentation.
  • Assist with reel changes, material changeovers, and job transitions as required.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping standards.
  • Communicate process issues, equipment concerns, or quality problems to the cabling lead or manufacturing supervisor.

Qualifications
  • Willingness to learn cabling processes, cable constructions, and manufacturing equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude with interest in industrial machinery and production environments.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions accurately.
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs.
  •  Must not be color blind and must be able to distinguish conductor and insulation colors.

Skills and Competencies
  • Attention to detail with a strong focus on product quality and workmanship.
  • Basic math skills for measurements, calculations, and recording production data.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a manufacturing environment.
  • Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Good organizational and time-management skills.
  • Effective communication skills.

Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Pre