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Assistant Operator Jobs in Portage, IN (NOW HIRING)

Reliance

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Crane Operator Founded in 1954, Feralloy Corporation has grown to become one of the country ... Work independently and as part of a team to achieve operational goals. * Assist with inventory ...

Chowbus

Test Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The Test Operator role will handle device testing and coordinate with our 20+ cities to drive best ... This role may sometimes assist with shipments and inventory management. This is a 5 days on-site ...

NCW

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

What We're Looking For We are searching for English/Spanish speaking Forklift Operators with ... What You'll Do * Assist shipping and receiving unloading trucks and checking in merchandise * Sort ...

Ursitti Enterprises LLC

Overhead crane operator

Gary, IN · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Overhead Crane Operator Location: Gary, Indiana Company: Steel Service Center Employment Type ... Read and interpret work orders, load charts, and shop instructions. * Assist with material staging ...

NCW

Forklift Operator

Hammond, IN

$18 - $20/hr

Position Summary We are searching for Forklift Operators with warehouse shipping and receiving ... Key Responsibilities * Assist shipping and receiving unloading trucks and checking in merchandise

Zekelman Industries

Floater Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.40/hr

About the Role As a Floater Operator at Zekelman Industries , this role plays a key part in safely ... Direct and assist in changeovers while inspecting tooling condition after each rolling * Support ...

Zekelman Industries

Floater Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29.96/hr

About the Role As a Floater Operator at Zekelman Industries , this role plays a key part in safely ... Direct and assist in changeovers while inspecting tooling condition after each rolling * Support ...

Zekelman

Floater Operator

Chicago, IL

$29.96/hr

About the Role As a Floater Operator at Zekelman Industries , this role plays a key part in safely ... Direct and assist in changeovers while inspecting tooling condition after each rolling * Support ...

XMG

Forklift Operator

South Holland, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Maintain the facility's equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion * Assist in ... Enforces operating instructions and safety policies. * Assist management in establishing warehouse ...

SunCoke Energy

Utility Operator

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Lifts heavy objects by hand or with power hoist, and cleans work area, machines, and equipment to assist machine operators. Loads trucks or railcars as needed. Starts/stops hydraulic pumps, motors ...

Zekelman

Floater Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.40/hr

About the Role As a Floater Operator at Zekelman Industries , this role plays a key part in safely ... Direct and assist in changeovers while inspecting tooling condition after each rolling * Support ...

Texas Pipe Family of Companies

Finishing Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Finishing Operator Texas Pipe and Supply Company is a leading distributor of Carbon and Stainless ... Pipe is fed into machine from a nearby rack * Assist other team members when time allows * Any ...

Ursitti Enterprises LLC

Machine Operator

Chesterton, IN

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

We seek a detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our client's production team. The ideal ... Maintain a clean and organized workspace, following safety guidelines. * Assist with packaging and ...

reliance

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Work independently and as part of a team to achieve operational goals. * Assist with inventory ... Previous overhead crane operating experience preferred (2+ years preferred). * Experience in a ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Portage, IN salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Portage, IN is $18.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $20.53 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 Portage, IN?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Portage, IN are:

What cities near Portage, IN are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Portage, IN with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Portage, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,817 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Crane Operator

Reliance

Portage, IN • On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Crane Operator

Founded in 1954, Feralloy Corporation has grown to become one of the country's largest high-volume steel processing companies delivering quality tempered, stretched, and slit products. From our Chicago headquarters, we operate a network of steel processing centers throughout the U.S. and Mexico that provide value-added processing of hot rolled, pickled, cold rolled, and coated sheet products to manufacturers and producers.

Feralloy is a proud member of Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co., which allows us to provide key benefits and opportunities to better serve our employees and customers.

We are seeking a full-time Crane Operator to join our fast-paced steel service center. Safety is our number one priority, and team members are expected to follow all safety procedures, perform required equipment inspections, and work with plant personnel to achieve daily production goals.

Pay Range: $23.00 - $28.00 per hour

Hiring positions for 2nd and 3rd shift

Physical Requirements

Stand or Sit (Stationary position), Walk (Move, Traverse), Use hand/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position), Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance (Ascend/Descend, Work atop, Traverse), Stoop, kneel, crouch, or Crawl (Position self (to), Move), Talk/hear (Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information), See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess), Pushing or Pulling, Reaching, Repetitive Motion

Function in the Job

Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Job Function
  • Operate overhead cranes to safely move, load, unload, and stage steel materials.
  • Perform daily crane and equipment inspections and report any issues.
  • Follow established work instructions, safety procedures, and quality standards.
  • Support production, warehouse, and shipping activities as needed.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Work independently and as part of a team to achieve operational goals.
  • Assist with inventory movement and material handling throughout the facility.
Required Skills
  • Previous overhead crane operating experience preferred (2+ years preferred).
  • Experience in a steel processing, manufacturing, or warehouse environment preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
  • Ability to make sound decisions and follow established procedures.
  • Dependable, self-motivated, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work effectively with team members and supervisors.
  • Willingness to work night or overnight shifts as needed.

Why Join Feralloy?

  • Competitive hourly pay + bonus opportunities
  • Learning multiple positions, will increase hourly pay
  • Benefits Begin on Day 31 of Employment (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k + match)
  • Accrue PTO (Paid Time Off) Day 1 of Employment
  • Family-oriented culture
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement

Apply