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Assistant Operator Jobs in Washington, MI (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Overview The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Overview The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate, stack and ... Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area. * Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Operator information

See Washington, MI salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Washington, MI is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 higher compensation due to the complexity of equipment or hazardous environments.

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 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.

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 most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Washington, MI? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Washington, MI are:
What cities near Washington, MI are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs? Cities near Washington, MI with the most Assistant Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Washington, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,227 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Extrusion Assistant Operator (Continental Day Shift 6AM-6PM)

pregis

Marysville, MI

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Pregis rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Job Title: Extrusion Assistant Operator/Winder

Classification: Hourly

Reports To: Production Supervisor

Department: Extrusion                

 

Summary of Job

Responsible for assisting in the operation of assigned converting machine(s) ensuring product adheres to company standard of safety, quality, and throughput.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

 

  • Support, demonstrate and promote Pregis’ core values: integrity, collaboration, customer focus and innovation.
  • Adheres to the highest standards of company safety programs, guidelines, rules, and regulations including all personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements

Housekeeping throughout assigned shift to ensure an orderly and safe environment.Physical and visual inspection of product is required to prevent non-conforming goods. Promptly reports all quality defects to the appropriate team members.Maintains appropriate level of production supplies/ materials as required, to ensure next shift personnel incur minimal downtime.Continuously monitor machine operation to ensure accurate product measurements and quality are being maintained.Meets or exceeds production rates, minimize waste levels and meets all customer requirements.Focus on downstream winder, ensuring that product is allocated properlyOccasionally assisting Operator with entering production reporting data into machine computer accurately.Separates scrap by color coding appropriately Operates core cutting machine, vacuum lift, and pallet jack.Acquires knowledge/ skills of Machine Operator to better assist and troubleshoot when needed.Attends meetings and completes safety trainings as required.Performs other job-related duties as assigned. If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship to the business.

Competency (Knowledge, skills, and abilities)

  • Ability to take coaching well and communicates respectfully with others to ensure a positive teamwork culture.
  • Promote positive teamwork culture
  • Ability to communicate with team effectively and respectfully, including during shift transition
  • Prior SAP or similar ERP system knowledge.
  • 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+

Physical Characteristics

  • Frequent standing, stooping, squatting, up to 75%
  • Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling (up to 50 lbs.)
  • Occasional typing/keyboarding/preparing documents, voice- assisted as needed

Position Type

  • Full time
  • Shift work (Continental Shift, 2 Week Cycle, 12 Hour Shifts 6AM-6PM)
  • Overtime expected per business demand

Education and Experience

  • High School diploma or equivalent required
  • Minimum 1 year manufacturing preferred

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion

We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis’ culture and achievements.

#PP1


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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