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Assistant Operator Jobs in Morganton, NC (NOW HIRING)

Smurfit Westrock

Entry Sheeter Operator

Marion, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Read, understand and locate rolls according to allocation sheet * Assist operator with make ready * Prep rolls for the sheeter * Remove loads form the machine and place in staging / sheeted WIP area

New

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 ...

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

WestRock

Production Team Member

Conover, NC · On-site

$18/hr

Assure completion of job(s) and/or form(s) * Assist operator in driving production, Safety 5S, and quality * Read and understand schedule * Perform PM as directed by operator * Maintenance related ...

Carolina Conduit Systems

Operator

Conover, NC

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

... equipment Assist with general labor and site clean-up as needed Requirements: Proven experience as an Excavator Operator in utility work Familiarity with underground conduit installation and ...

VEKA

Production Associate

Morganton, NC

$12 - $15.25/hr

Support production area and assist extrusion operators by performing the following duties according to established VEKA standards. These standards enable us to provide a quality product/service to ...

Manpower

Machine Operator

Hickory, NC · On-site

$19/hr

Assistant Machine Operator - Night Shift $19.00/Hour | 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM | 2-2-3 Schedule Manufacturing doesn't stop when the sun goes down, and neither does our commitment to quality. We're looking ...

Primero Staffing

Forklift Operator

Hickory, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Order Fulfillment: Assist in order picking, packing, and preparing shipments for delivery as needed. Qualifications: * Previous experience in forklift operating is preferred but not required.

VEKA

Production Associate

Morganton, NC · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

Support production area and assist extrusion operators by performing the following duties according to established VEKA standards. These standards enable us to provide a quality product/service to ...

Mellott Company

Certified Crane Operator

Marion, NC · On-site

Certified Crane Operator Location Marion, NC (Primary Location) Occasional travel to Nashville, TN ... Support occasional travel to the Nashville, TN facility as needed * Assist with loading/unloading ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Morganton, NC salary details

$8

$15

$24

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Morganton, NC is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.31 and $17.88 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 Morganton, NC?

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

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

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

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Morganton, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,968 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Entry Sheeter Operator

Smurfit Westrock

Marion, NC • On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Smurfit Westrock rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 277 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

General Information
Job ID
ATR65844
Posting Job Title
Entry Sheeter Operator
Locations
NC Marion
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
12-Aug-2026
Relocation Support
No
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
The Sheeter Operator is responsible for setting up and operating the Sheeter and Guillotine Sheet Trimmer to cut paperboard to correct size, and with the grain going the correct way for an offset printing operation.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Read, understand and locate rolls according to allocation sheet
  • Assist operator with make ready
  • Prep rolls for the sheeter
  • Remove loads form the machine and place in staging / sheeted WIP area
  • Obtain the proper skids for each job
  • Empty waste bins and keep machine area clean
  • Park sheeted load in staging area by FO
  • Relieve the operator for break
  • Assist in preventive maintenance and other general repairs
  • Use of clamp truck to move and load paper
  • Assist with line clearance
  • Ensure safe work habits
  • Operate the baler, band waste and shred waste
  • Keep rolls by caliper together in the warehouse
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Good communication
  • Ability to use and interpret a tape measure
  • Work overtime to cover vacation and/or absences
  • Work at or below shoulder level
  • Basic math and computer skills
  • Clamp truck experience or obtain clamp truck certification

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 position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

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