1

Assistant Operator Jobs in Paulding, OH (NOW HIRING)

Operates material handler (grapple/magnet) and front-end loaders (>9 tons), and forklift to assist ... operating heavy equipment. * High school diploma or GED preferred. * Must pass pre-employment ...

CNC Operator Location: Fort Wayne, IN Shift: 7:00 AM-3:30 PM | Monday-Friday Pay: $18.00-$22.00 ... In addition, you will assist with troubleshooting minor machine issues, document production ...

Dental Assistant

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Now, we're seeking a talented Dental Assistant to join our passionate team and help us maintain our ... Operating Hours: Mon-Th 7:45am - 5pm. Benefits & Perks: * Quarterly Bonus Potential - up to $700

Dental Assistant

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Now, we're seeking a talented Dental Assistant to join our passionate team and help us maintain our ... Operating Hours: Mon-Th 7:45am - 5pm. Benefits & Perks: * Quarterly Bonus Potential - up to $700

Dental Assistant

Fort Wayne, IN

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Now, we're seeking a talented Dental Assistant to join our passionate team and help us maintain our ... Operating Hours: Mon-Th 7:45am - 5pm. Benefits & Perks: * Quarterly Bonus Potential - up to $700

Dental Assistant

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Now, we're seeking a talented Dental Assistant to join our passionate team and help us maintain our ... Operating Hours: Mon-Th 7:45am - 5pm. Benefits & Perks: * Quarterly Bonus Potential - up to $700

Office Assistant

Fort Wayne, IN

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Job Title: Office Assistant Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Pay: Competitive; Hourly Company ... operators/drivers--Asplundh is a family-owned and operated corporation headquartered near ...

Office Assistant

Fort Wayne, IN

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Job Title: Office Assistant Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Pay: Competitive; Hourly Company ... operators/drivers--Asplundh is a family-owned and operated corporation headquartered near ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Operator information

See Paulding, OH salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Paulding, OH is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $19.47 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 Paulding, OH are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Paulding, OH with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Paulding, OH 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 $35,919 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Mobile Equipment Operator

Central Garden & Pet

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,712 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

  • 94%

    94% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 42 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Description

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Feeds the production line and manually tracks the delivery of materials with a forklift.
  • Put-away of finished goods or raw materials.
  • Timely loading and unloading of trucks and support of cart management for the production team as needed.
  • Loading or unloading materials manually, off or onto pallets, platforms, skids, or lifting devices
  • Partners with Production Leads and the Quality Coordinator for validation of materials and timing.
  • Transporting materials to different locations within the facility.
  • Optimizing loads to ensure operational efficiency.
  • Securing loads to the machine before transportation.
  • Report any faulty equipment, damage to racks, or other potential safety hazards. 
  • Removes and manually tracks unused or surplus materials at the end of a production run.
  • Packing cushions when time allows.
  • Follow all safety guidelines; especially for glad hand locks, dock locks, wheel chocks, PPE, lifting techniques, and housekeeping.

Required Skills:

  • Basic counting and math skills.
  • Ability to push/pull up to 50lbs.
  • Ability to stand/walk/bend/stoop up to 3 hours at a stretch.
  • Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills; written documentation and tracking of materials; verbal interaction with multiple individuals at various levels within the organization.
  • Flexible; must be willing to “learn as you go” and have a “can do” attitude.
  • Self-starter: must be willing to ask questions and speak up if something doesn’t make sense or seems out of place.
  • Team player: must be willing to pitch in to assist team members with other duties as requested.
  • One (1) year of experience operating a forklift preferred.

Training Provided:

  • Safety – day one
  • PLM (optional or future date)
  • SAP (optional or future date)
  • Forklift Certification or Recertification – day one
  • Handheld Scanning Technology (as needed)
  • Use of Automated Case Sealers and Conveyers (as needed)
  • Packing Techniques (as needed)

Growth Opportunities:

Employees starting in the material handler – front-end production role have the opportunity to explore other roles within the organization such as warehouse support, inventory support, back-end production support, production, or quality.

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS 
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Employer-Paid Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Accounts
  • 401k
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Access to thousands of free online courses
  • Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
  • Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional)
 
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
 

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.


What Central Garden & Pet employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom