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Assistant Operator Jobs in Jefferson, OR (NOW HIRING)

ENTEK Manufacturing LLC

Waterjet Operator

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

If you enjoy precision manufacturing, operating advanced CNC equipment, and producing high-quality ... * Assist with inventory control and material tracking activities * Support Lean Manufacturing ...

TradeJobsWorkforce

Forklift Operator

Dallas, OR · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Step into a new opportunity as a Forklift Operator, where you will work with supervisors to meet daily goals, learn company products and services to better assist others, and follow schedules and ...

City of Albany

On-Call Transit Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$22.80 - $29.06/hr

... Operators*. We are seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to operate diesel and gasoline ... assist passengers, and maintain non-mechanical aspects of the buses. In this role, you will be ...

PARR Lumber

Forklift Operator

Albany, OR

$21.02 - $23.27/hr

The Forklift Operator reports directly to Production Manager. They interact daily with yard ... * Assist Customer Service employees maintaining yard cleanliness * Partners with all coworkers ...

Consolidated Precision Products

Metals Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Metals Operator - Metals Team - Swing Shift If you would love to be part of a company that is ... Responsible for production and quality of metal. * Assist with production duties in the metals team.

City of Albany, OR

Water Treatment Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$27.18 - $34.59/hr

... assist with major repairs, modifications, and installation and start-up of a variety of process ... Assists operators in monitoring, inspecting, and operating treatment and distribution facilities.

City of Albany

Water Treatment Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$58K - $74K/yr

... assist with major repairs, modifications, and installation and start-up of a variety of process ... Assists operators in monitoring, inspecting, and operating treatment and distribution facilities.

City of Albany, OR

On-Call Transit Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$22.80 - $29.06/hr

... Operators*. We are seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to operate diesel and gasoline ... assist passengers, and maintain non-mechanical aspects of the buses. In this role, you will be ...

Field Fastener

Machine Tool Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This role involves operating various metalworking machines, including threaders, band saws ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Field Fastener

Machine Tool Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This role involves operating various metalworking machines, including threaders, band saws ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Jefferson, OR

Assistant Operator information

See Jefferson, OR salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Jefferson, OR is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $22.31 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 Jefferson, OR are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Jefferson, OR with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Jefferson, OR 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 $41,145 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Waterjet Operator

ENTEK Manufacturing LLC

Lebanon, OR • On-site

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description

Join ENTEK in Lebanon, Oregon
ENTEK is excited to welcome a Waterjet Operator to our team in Lebanon, Oregon. If you enjoy precision manufacturing, operating advanced CNC equipment, and producing high-quality components in a fast-paced fabrication environment, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career.
What You'll Do
As a Waterjet Operator, you'll operate CNC Waterjet cutting equipment to fabricate precision metal components that support ENTEK's manufacturing operations. You'll work closely with Programming, Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to ensure products meet customer specifications while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.


In this role, you will:

  • Operate CNC Waterjet cutting equipment, including Flow and similar Waterjet systems
  • Set up production jobs according to schedules, work instructions, and program requirements
  • Load and unload raw materials using approved material handling equipment
  • Execute cutting programs accurately and efficiently to meet production goals
  • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and manufacturing documentation
  • Monitor machine performance and cut quality throughout production runs
  • Inspect finished parts using precision measuring tools to verify compliance with specifications
  • Sort, label, identify, and stage completed parts for downstream manufacturing operations
  • Perform machine setup verification and material alignment activities
  • Make routine machine adjustments to maintain production quality and efficiency
  • Perform basic preventative maintenance and routine equipment cleaning
  • Maintain accurate production records and documentation
  • Troubleshoot minor equipment and process issues
  • Collaborate with Waterjet Programmers to improve production efficiency and program performance
  • Assist with inventory control and material tracking activities
  • Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, Kaizen events, and continuous improvement projects
  • Assist with training new operators and supporting workflow continuity
  • Follow all company safety policies, PPE requirements, and standard operating procedures

Requirements

What We're Looking For
We're seeking a dependable manufacturing professional with strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to producing high-quality work in a team-oriented environment.


Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • One (1) year of CNC machining, manufacturing, or industrial production experience preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and manufacturing documentation
  • Basic understanding of CNC machine operation and manufacturing processes
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to perform quality inspections using precision measuring equipment
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational and time-management abilities
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience operating Flow or similar CNC Waterjet systems
  • Experience with laser cutting or sheet metal fabrication
  • Experience utilizing precision measuring equipment
  • Lean Manufacturing and 5S experience
  • Experience supporting production schedules in a manufacturing environment

Your Work Schedule

This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Schedule is shift-dependent and may vary based on production requirements. Flexibility to work assigned shifts and overtime as needed is required.


What Makes ENTEK Different

ENTEK is more than a manufacturing company-we're a team driven by values. Our core DNA is built on:

  • Respect - valuing each person and every contribution
  • Integrity - doing what's right, always
  • Innovation - pushing boundaries with creativity and technology
  • Commitment - to our people, our customers, and our future

When you join ENTEK, you're not just taking a job-you're becoming part of a company that invests in you, your growth, and your success.
Learn more about us at www.entek.com and discover the opportunities waiting for you.
ENTEK is an equal opportunity employer.
ENTEK's locations are non-smoking.

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