ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Operator Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Kop-Coat, Inc.

3rd Shift Filling Line Operator

Hudson, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

GENERAL SUMMARY Assist with operating filling line and box completed product. PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. * Maintain supplies for ...

Bosch Group

TC Cell Lead Operator 2nd

Lincolnton, NC

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

By choice, we are committed to a diverse workforce - EOE/Protected Veteran/Disabled Assist Process ... Train new operators, assist operators as needed Change Electrodes Change Grinding wheels ...

Bosch Group

TC Cell Lead Operator 2nd

Lincolnton, NC

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

By choice, we are committed to a diverse workforce - EOE/Protected Veteran/Disabled Assist Process ... Train new operators, assist operators as needed Change Electrodes Change Grinding wheels ...

Bosch Group

TC Cell Lead Operator 2nd

Lincolnton, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

By choice, we are committed to a diverse workforce - EOE/Protected Veteran/Disabled Assist Process ... Train new operators, assist operators as needed Change Electrodes Change Grinding wheels ...

Pratt Industries

Entry Level Load Former

Statesville, NC

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to Operator. Assist operator and first helper as necessary. Ensure correct bundle and unit counts. Report final count of piece unit to operator.

Pratt Industries

Entry Level Load Former

Statesville, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to Operator. Assist operator and first helper as necessary. Ensure correct bundle and unit counts. Report final count of piece unit to operator.

ESI

Operator/Wellfield Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

Operator/WellField Technician - Renewable Natural Gas Company Overview ESI Solutions (ESI), a ... Recommend and assist in further SOP development. · Maximize Plant efficiencies. · Other duties as ...

ESI

Operator/Wellfield Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

Operator/WellField Technician - Renewable Natural Gas Company Overview ESI Solutions (ESI), a ... Recommend and assist in further SOP development. · Maximize Plant efficiencies. · Other duties as ...

ESI

Operator/Wellfield Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

Operator/WellField Technician - Renewable Natural Gas Company Overview ESI Solutions (ESI), a ... Recommend and assist in further SOP development. · Maximize Plant efficiencies. · Other duties as ...

ESI

Operator/Wellfield Technician

Hickory, NC · On-site

Operator/WellField Technician - Renewable Natural Gas Company Overview ESI Solutions (ESI), a ... Recommend and assist in further SOP development. · Maximize Plant efficiencies. · Other duties as ...

Manpower

Assistant Machine Operator - Days

Hickory, NC · On-site

$17/hr

Manufacturing Assistant Machine Operator - Night Shift Day Shift: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM | 2-2-3 Schedule Starting Pay: $17.00/hour Looking for a stable career with room to grow? We're seeking reliable ...

New

Pratt Industries

First Helper

Statesville, NC

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Check anilox rolls for damage. Assist operator in other duties. Monitor board quality, including - loose liner, warp, dimensions, caliper, and any other defects. Report any quality problems to the ...

Pratt Industries

First Helper

Statesville, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Check anilox rolls for damage. Assist operator in other duties. Monitor board quality, including - loose liner, warp, dimensions, caliper, and any other defects. Report any quality problems to the ...

Pratt Industries

First Helper

Statesville, NC

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Check anilox rolls for damage. Assist operator in other duties. Monitor board quality, including - loose liner, warp, dimensions, caliper, and any other defects. Report any quality problems to the ...

Pratt Industries

Stacker

Statesville, NC

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to Operator. Assist operator and first helper as necessary. Be willing to move up the line of progression to operator regardless of shift. Ensure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Hickory, NC

Assistant Operator information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$9

$17

$27

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Hickory, NC is $17.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $20.00 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 Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you

3rd Shift Filling Line Operator

RPM International Inc.

Hudson, NC

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

RPM International rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY

Assist with operating filling line and box completed product.

 PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

  • Maintain supplies for filling line, such as empty cans, boxes, etc.
  • Assist operator in changing filing line components from run to run
  • Check application of lids on containers and manually tighten any loose lids
  • Print and apply labeling to filled boxes
  • Box and palletize finished product
  • Complete tracking forms and attach to pallets
  • Move completed pallets to shipping staging areas

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Experience and Education Required

  • No experience necessary
  • Fill off experience preferred

 Specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

  • Basic math/ measurement skills
  • Basic reading and comprehension skills

 Reasoning Ability

  • Determine correct processes regarding standard filling line procedures as instructed in initial training and from batch ticket instructions.
  • Work without continuous supervision and complete assigned projects.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is regularly required to stand, bend and/or stoop, grasp, handle or feel.  The employee is occasionally required to walk, talk and/or hear.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Employees must also be able to read and comprehend written instructions and remember processes and procedures for safe and accurate completion of duties for the entirety of the shift. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment is representative of those an employee would encounter in a normal paint manufacturing facility while performing the job tasks listed in this job description.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPI)

  • Number of units produced daily
  • Accuracy of units produced
  • Appearance of work area

What RPM International employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply