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Assistant Operator Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

schwarzpartners

Machine Operator Assistant

Shillington, PA

$16 - $19.25/hr

As a Machine Operator Assistant , you will assist operators on the Flexo Folder Gluers, Die Cutting Machines, Baler, etc. The Royal Group's mission is to provide value-added solutions to the most ...

International Paper

General Helper

Reading, PA · On-site

$23.55/hr

Comply with all required Plant and OSHA safety rules. * Assist the Operator/Assistant Operator of a machine center with the quality production of all products. * Other duties as assigned by any ...

International Paper Company

General Helper

Reading, PA · On-site

$23.55/hr

Comply with all required Plant and OSHA safety rules. * Assist the Operator/Assistant Operator of a machine center with the quality production of all products. * Other duties as assigned by any ...

Valley Forge Flag

Grommeter

Boyertown, PA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Must be able to assist operators as necessary. * Must be able to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of this job.

Westlake Corporation

Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Relieve and assist other operators as needed. 16. Work as a team with other personnel. 17. Other duties as required QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

Westlake

Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Relieve and assist other operators as needed. 16. Work as a team with other personnel. 17. Other duties as required QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

Westlake Corporation

Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Relieve and assist other operators as needed. * Work as a team with other personnel. * Other duties as required QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform ...

Westlake

Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Relieve and assist other operators as needed. * Work as a team with other personnel. * Other duties as required QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform ...

Westlake Corporation

Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Relieve and assist other operators as needed. 16. Work as a team with other personnel. 17. Other duties as required QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

Westlake

Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Relieve and assist other operators as needed. 16. Work as a team with other personnel. 17. Other duties as required QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to ...

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Reading, PA

Assistant Operator information

See Reading, PA salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Reading, PA is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $21.49 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 Reading, PA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,587 per year, or $19 per hour.

Operator I (Assistant Press Operator) -Night Shift (7PM-7AM | 2-2-3 Schedule)

pregis

Bethel, PA • On-site

Full-time, Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Pregis rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Job Title: Operator I (Assistant Operator) 

Location: Bethel, PA

Classification: Hourly

Reports To: Shift Supervisor

Under the direction of VP operations and or Dept Supervisor oversees hourly employees to ensure the production of the highest quality products at the lowest possible cost, while meeting company standards for quality and performance, customer specifications and delivery requirements, in accordance with Pregis policies and procedures.

 

Overview: Must have the technical ability to operate all types of full converting line and finishing equipment within Pregis standards for waste, quality, and productivity.  Understands and adheres to all Standard Operating Procedures. Set up and operate all special functions and capabilities with minimal supervision or direction. Train other employees when requested or required to do so. Analyze issues, determine, and implement solutions.  Provide innovative / creative solutions for opportunities and or improvements.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Possess and demonstrates developing leadership qualities.
  • Use leadership skills to direct press crews in the efficient operation of the company’s machines.
  • Reads and understand all information on job ticket pertaining to a specific job. 
  • Ensures that all necessary components to produce the job are present. Does not move forward on any job with conflicting information.
  • Fully understands how to achieve print quality and register equipment to produce required quality and can achieve acceptable registration within specified M/R standards.
  • Understands all technical aspects of press controls and can set up and operate; splicer, gluer, Straub applicators, Label Applicators, rotary cutter, register systems, etc.
  • Understands tension controls, and ancillary equipment. Knowledge of how to web up the line, capable of setting glue rollers, changing plates, cylinders, and glue pads. Has the ability to perform minor mechanical repairs and adjustments.
  • Performs Cleaning as required according to Pregis Standard Operating Procedure 1.01 and as directed by the First operator. 
  • Fully understands and maintains accurate counts on every job.
  • Maintains a safe work environment.

Competency (Knowledge, skills and abilities)

  • Ability to take coaching well and communicates respectfully with others
  • Promote positive teamwork culture
  • Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate with team and during shift transition
  • Knowledgeable of safety requirements and guidelines in manufacturing/warehouse environment
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, follow standardized work instructions and adhere to safe work practices in a continuous improvement culture

Environment

  • Exposure to moving equipment
  • Inside work
  • Heat may exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Humidity may exceed 80%
  • Noise may exceed 85dB+
  • Personal Protective Equipment required

Physical Characteristics

  • Frequent standing, stooping
  • Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling (up to 50 lbs.)
  • Occasional typing/keyboarding

Position Type

  • Full time
  • 3rd Shift – 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
  • Overtime expected per business demand

Education and Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • 5-7 years of progressively responsible related experience; or a combination of education and experience.#MS1

#EVT

What Pregis employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Pregis logo

About Pregis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Deerfield, IL, US

Year founded

2005

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