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Assistant Operator Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator I

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$22.41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... . Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework, and as needed. Working 40 hours a week work week with occasional overtime, no travel required. Duties and Responsibilities:

Machine Operator I

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$22.41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... . Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework, and as needed. Working 40 hours a week work week with occasional overtime, no travel required. Duties and Responsibilities:

Machine Operator I

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$22.41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... . Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework, and as needed. Working 40 hours a week work week with occasional overtime, no travel required. Duties and Responsibilities:

Prep and hang the raw material at the load stand area * Assist Operator with efficiency of machine and paper alignment * Remove butt rolls from load stand * Weigh and label finished products

Operator I

Tukwila, WA

$19.25 - $23/hr

Description The Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting maintenance and engineering ... Maintenance Support: * Assist the maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

Operator I

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

The operator will collaborate with both management and hourly employees to ensure efficient ... Maintenance Support: * Assist the maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

Operator I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

Description: The Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting maintenance and engineering ... Maintenance Support: * Assist the maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

Utility Operator

Auburn, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Renton, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Des Moines, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Issaquah, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Burien, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Federal Way, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Bellevue, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Utility Operator

Puyallup, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Utility Operator Overview Our client is building what's next across North America-from ... Follow all health, safety, and environmental policies * Assist with additional duties as required ...

Conduct pre-operational inspections and identify mechanical or safety issues * Assist with crane ... Minimum 8-10 years of experience operating lattice-boom crawler cranes * Extensive hands-on ...

Terminal Operator / Lift Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$23.82 - $27.26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

As a Lift Operator, you'll be responsible for safely and efficiently unloading, loading, and ... Coordinate with gate personnel to assist drivers dropping off or picking up equipment. * Support ...

Forklift Operator

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

... * Assist with general warehouse duties, inventory control, and yard cleanup as assigned ... Details for Forklift Operator: * Pay Rate: $17.50 / hour starting (Opportunity for wage increases ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Operator information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$11

$21

$33

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Tacoma, WA is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $23.99 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 Tacoma, WA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,097 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

$22.41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Carlisle Companies is a leading manufacturer of building envelope products and solutions that make buildings more energy efficient, durable, and sustainable.
We deliver roofing, insulation, waterproofing, and architectural systems for commercial and residential projects using a focus on innovation and continuous improvement to solve today's challenges.
We're equally committed to our people, prioritizing safety, inclusion, career growth, development, tuition assistance, and excellent benefits.
With manufacturing, engineering, operations, and corporate functions across North America and globally, Carlisle offers stability, agility, and opportunity in a performance-driven culture. Do meaningful work and shape the future of building solutions; apply today and come grow with us.
Sunday- Thursday 8 pm- 630 am, OT as required
Pay: $22.41 plus $1.00 shift differential
Job Summary
Operate machinery designed to perform a specific portion of the production process around EPS (Expand Polystyrene). Assist Operator II and Operator III on packing and end-of linework, and as needed. Working 40 hours a week work week with occasional overtime, no travel required.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operates machinery of assigned department (lamination, cutting, fabrication, shapes, recycling, molding, expanding, etc.) to complete assigned work order.
  • Receives and reviews work orders.
  • Communicates the required amount of material needed to perform tasks to other departments.
  • Continuous observation of machine operation to ensure optimal performance of standard work within assigned department.
  • Performs hazard-based functions on machinery, including lock out/tag out and daily equipment inspection.
  • Stacks, sorts, and bundles material according to assigned department's standard work.
  • Occasional housekeeping tasks, 5S, and SQDC involvement.
  • Records data of manufactured material for quality control and improvement functions.
  • Achieves production goals while complying with all safety requirements.
  • Assists with quality checks to verify proper parameters are adhered to.
  • Assists Operators II & III on packaging and end-of-line work, and as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Highly motivated with a good, sound work ethic.
  • Must demonstrate safe working practices and possess great attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow CWT's policies, procedures, and processes.
  • Good communication, organization, and time management skills.
  • Basic computer, mathematics, and problem-solving skills; ability to use a calculator.
  • Ability to use measuring devices (gauges, tapes, rulers).
  • Team player able to follow instructions from both management and peers.
  • Ability to learn and operate new equipment.

Education and Experience:
  • Required:
    • High School Diploma or GED is Preferred
    • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
    • Prior experience in a manufacturing setting preferred.

Working Conditions:
  • Fast paced manufacturing environment where workers are exposed to both ambient/outside temperatures and dust; working with mechanical parts and pinch points; exposure to increased noise levels.
  • Hours worked: 8-10 hours/shift, varies on shift schedule and business volume.
  • Flexible to the possibility of overtime and weekend hours when required.
  • Heavy, stationary machinery on manufacturing floor.
  • Radio, Calculator, Measuring Devices
  • Hand tools
  • Computer (Shop Floor and ERP)

BENEFITS AND PERKS
Our employees' well-being is essential to Carlisle's success. That's why we offer the flexibility to tailor a benefits program that best fits your individual needs.
Benefits offered:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance- DAY 1
    • Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
    • Leave & Disability Income Protection (FMLA, LOA, PPL, STD, LTD)
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
    • Health Advocate - health care concierge service
    • PTO - sick days, 11 holidays, vacation
    • 401K Retirement Savings Plan with company match
    • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
    • Flexible Spending accounts (commuter benefits, flexible spending accounts, health savings account)
    • College Scholarships for Dependents
    • Tuition Reimbursement