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Assistant Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Zekelman Industries

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in ... Complete production, change-over, and scrap material reports accurately and promptly. * Assist ...

Zekelman Industries

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in ... Complete production, change-over, and scrap material reports accurately and promptly. * Assist ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Frankfort, KY

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

HIRING MACHINE OPERATORS!! Company Description We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14 ...

New

Hendrickson USA, LLC

Machine Operator

Berea, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Exercise safe working habits while operating machines. * Perform other duties as assigned by the ... to assist colleagues with theirs Consensual - Valuing the ideas and opinions of others and ...

New

Zekelman

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in ... Complete production, change-over, and scrap material reports accurately and promptly. * Assist ...

Zekelman

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in ... Complete production, change-over, and scrap material reports accurately and promptly. * Assist ...

Zekelman

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in ... Complete production, change-over, and scrap material reports accurately and promptly. * Assist ...

CRH

Steam Truck Operator

Paris, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

The Steam Truck Operator will assist the Lube Technician and be primarily responsible for steam cleaning equipment. The Steam Truck Operator position is responsible for safe operation of the steam ...

Menasha Corporation

Production Operator

Georgetown, KY · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

About The Opportunity ORBIS is seeking dedicated and detail-oriented Production Operator to join ... Support training of new employees and assist other departments as needed * Participate in ...

New

CRH

Steam Truck Operator

Paris, KY

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

The Steam Truck Operator will assist the Lube Technician and be primarily responsible for steam cleaning equipment. The Steam Truck Operator position is responsible for safe operation of the steam ...

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY

Assistant Operator information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$9

$16

$26

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Lexington, KY is $16.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $18.94 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 Lexington, KY?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:

What cities near Lexington, KY are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Lexington, KY with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,971 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Machine Operator

Zekelman Industries

Richmond, KY • On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part the places where we live, work and play - all day, everyday.
Zekelman is a family of companies - 100% domestic manufacturers - with a legacy dating back to 1877. We're proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development.
We believe in what we build and what we build, builds the world around us. Hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports and more.
Come build a career you believe in.
About the Role
As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and robotic equipment used in the production of PVC profiles, tubing, or other plastic products. The ideal candidate will have manufacturing experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to producing high-quality products safely and efficiently.
What You'll Do
  • Observe all safety and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) rules to operate equipment efficiently and effectively.
  • Perform advanced setup and calibration of all equipment to ensure proper production operation.
  • Inspect materials for quality issues before, during, and after running material.
  • Record and report any deficiencies in quality to the supervisor or quality department.
  • Maintain equipment tooling and tools necessary for job completion.
  • Diagnose equipment and quality problems while minimizing scrap and delays.
  • Perform housekeeping tasks to keep work areas clean and safe.
  • Complete production, change-over, and scrap material reports accurately and promptly.
  • Assist maintenance with repairs and preventive maintenance of equipment.
  • Participate in continuous improvement programs and initiatives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Who You Are
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to read and write English and maintain accurate production records.
  • Manufacturing or related industrial experience preferred.
  • Ability to perform basic math including addition, subtraction, decimals, and fractions.
  • Proficient in using measuring tools such as tape measures, micrometers, and calipers.
  • Ability to operate forklifts, cranes, and other equipment required for job completion.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to work independently and follow instructions.
  • Regular, full-time, predictable onsite attendance per the posted schedule is required.
  • Leads and promotes health and safety work practices as required by regulatory agencies and company policy.

Physical Abilities
  • Ability to lift up to 60 lbs. and stand for 10-12 hours.
  • Must be able to climb, bend, stoop, push, pull, and perform constant movement.
  • Requires good manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina.
  • Must be able to perform work in a plant/manufacturing environment.

What You'll Get
Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits. In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, loyalty awards, and much more:
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Bonus Plan & Profit-Sharing Opportunities
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Comprehensive Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays
  • Employee Loyalty Awards

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits. In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, immediate vesting, and much more.
M/F/D/V
We are Zekelman Industries.
We manufacture superior quality tubular and related products, and provide outstanding service for our valued customers.
We seek to continuously advance the skills and opportunities of our employees, utilizing the latest technology and management tools available to consistently increase profitability and the enterprise value of Zekelman Industries and of our customers.

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