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Assistant Operator Jobs in Waco, TX (NOW HIRING)

pca

Machine Helper

Woodway, TX

$14.25 - $18/hr

Communicate quality related issues back to operator and/or assistant operator. * Set up & operate bundling/squaring machine or case sealer when required. * Catches and packs boxes, and sets up master ...

ajholdingsltd

Production Assistant

Waco, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

The Production Assistant will assist Operators set up and operate machinery, ensuring efficient production. Production Assistants are reliable and able to work with attention to detail and within ...

ajholdingsltd

Production Assistant - Night Shift

Waco, TX

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

The Production Assistant will assist Operators set up and operate machinery, ensuring efficient production. Production Assistants are reliable and able to work with attention to detail and within ...

AstenJohnson, Inc.

Production Assistant - Night Shift

Waco, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

The Production Assistant will assist Operators set up and operate machinery, ensuring efficient production. Production Assistants are reliable and able to work with attention to detail and within ...

ajholdingsltd

Operator - Night Shift

Waco, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Serve as a back-up for the senior operator in cases of an absence or scheduled day off. * Assist in training Production Assistants and new Operators as required. * Set up, operate, and maintain ...

ajholdingsltd

Operator - Weekend Shift

Waco, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Serve as a back-up for the senior operator in cases of absence or scheduled time off. * Assist in training Production Assistants and new Operators as required. * Set up, operate, and maintain ...

AstenJohnson, Inc.

Operator - Night Shift

Waco, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Serve as a back-up for the senior operator in cases of an absence or scheduled day off. * Assist in training Production Assistants and new Operators as required. * Set up, operate, and maintain ...

AstenJohnson, Inc.

Operator - Weekend Shift

Waco, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Serve as a back-up for the senior operator in cases of absence or scheduled time off. * Assist in training Production Assistants and new Operators as required. * Set up, operate, and maintain ...

Fidelity Manufacturing

Combi-lift Operator

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Rigging & Load Handling * Assist with rigging operations associated with oversized loads and ... Work closely with crane operators, spotters, supervisors, and production personnel during lifting ...

SpaceX

Crane Operator

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

CRANE OPERATOR As a crane operator at our Texas Test Site, you will help fill a critical need to ... Inspect, procure, and replace lifting and rigging equipment for the site * Assist the fabrication ...

SpaceX

Crane Operator

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

CRANE OPERATOR As a crane operator at our Texas Test Site, you will help fill a critical need to ... Inspect, procure, and replace lifting and rigging equipment for the site * Assist the fabrication ...

SpaceX

Crane Operator

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

CRANE OPERATOR As a crane operator at our Texas Test Site, you will help fill a critical need to ... Inspect, procure, and replace lifting and rigging equipment for the site * Assist the fabrication ...

Laminate Technologies

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waco, TX · On-site

$19.01/hr

Load and unload items from machines, conveyors, and conveyances * Assist other machine operators as needed such as supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment.

Laminate Technologies Inc

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waco, TX · On-site

$19.01/hr

Load and unload items from machines, conveyors, and conveyances * Assist other machine operators as needed such as supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment.

Laminate Technologies Inc

MACHINE OPERATOR

Woodway, TX · On-site

$19.01/hr

Load and unload items from machines, conveyors, and conveyances * Assist other machine operators as needed such as supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment.

UFP Industries

Forklift Operator

Temple, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Job Summary Forklift Operator I is responsible for the movement of material from inventory to ... Moves finished goods from production area to finished goods inventory yard or warehouse * Assist ...

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Waco, TX

Assistant Operator information

See Waco, TX salary details

$9

$17

$27

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Waco, TX is $17.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $19.86 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 Waco, TX?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Waco, TX are:

What cities near Waco, TX are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Waco, TX with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Waco, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,595 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Machine Helper

Woodway, TX

pca
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 121 rated packaging manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about pcaexternal

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

People • Customers • Trust

Principle Accountabilities:

  • Prepare area with equipment and/or materials, such as case labels and/or special load tags, according to order requirements.
  • Able to understand and follow instructions on factory card, as well as instruction given by operator.
  • Help locate masters when not present machine center, as needed.
  • Work with other helpers and crew members for maximum efficiency of operation.
  • Communicate quality related issues back to operator and/or assistant operator.
  • Set up & operate bundling/squaring machine or case sealer when required.
  • Catches and packs boxes, and sets up master cartons.
  • As needed, responsible for moving from one machine center/area to another, as dictated by production needs and supervisory direction.
  • Input information into system to create load tag.
  • Switch duties with other crew members, which may include feeding, pulling, stacking, and packing, as required.
  • Ability to work independently and within a team, effectively communicating with members of the crew.
  • Comply with all company policies, procedures and work rules, including but not limited to safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Must be able and willing to work overtime on short notice, both during the week and weekends. 
  • Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

 

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma/GED.
  • Lifting up to 45 pounds.
  • Ability and willingness to work overtime on short notice, both during the week and weekends. 
  • Ability to work in manufacturing environment, with varying temperatures based on season, around machinery, and heavy forklift traffic.
  • Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic math functions.

Candidates are PREFERRED who offer the following:

  • Prior work experience in the manufacturing/production environment.
  • Prior work experience working as a crewmember on a machine crew.
  • Demonstrated experience as a leader and/or team member.
  • Prior experience working in Folding Gluing or similar type of work.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Ability to work within a team, effectively communicating with members, and work independently.
  • Willing and able to move to multiple machine centers as dictated by management.

What Packaging Corporation Of America employees say

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