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Assistant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Assistant Operator

Emmaus, PA

Perks of Pratt? * PAID Holidays from Day 1 * Insurance benefits and wellness reimbursement program within ONE MONTH of hire * 3 Months: 401(k) with match * 6 Months: PAID vacation days * 12 Months:

SIMONA PMC

Assistant Operator - 3rd Shift

Findlay, OH · On-site

$18/hr

We are NOW HIRING Assistant Operators.. Reports To: Production Lead We are a plastic extrusion company located in the Tall Timbers Industrial Park in Findlay, Ohio. We specialize primarily in the ...

Pratt Industries

Assistant Operator

Emmaus, PA · On-site

Perks of Pratt? * PAID Holidays from Day 1 * Insurance benefits and wellness reimbursement program within ONE MONTH of hire * 3 Months: 401(k) with match * 6 Months: PAID vacation days * 12 Months:

804 Technology

Chemical Operator Assistant

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist machine operator in the production process of resins. Assist operator by obtaining correct ingredients for mixing Weigh out ingredients per specifications ...

Pregis

Assistant Operator (2240)

Garland, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

BubbleCast - Assistant Operator Summary of Job The Production Trainer/Float is responsible for delivering comprehensive training across all production assets in the Garland facility. This role ...

Bryce Corporation

Slitter Assistant Operator

Searcy, AR · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Bags and packs out finished slit rolls according to production order and assists operator in the loading and unloading process. Key Accountabilities: * Interprets information provided on the Slit and ...

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Assistant Operator information

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How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in the United States is $19.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an operations assistant?

An operations assistant supports daily business functions by coordinating tasks, managing schedules, and ensuring smooth workflow. They often handle administrative duties, assist with process improvements, and may operate relevant tools or equipment depending on the industry.

What does an assistant operator do?

An assistant operator supports the main operator in operating machinery or equipment, often handling tasks such as monitoring systems, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They may also assist with setup, troubleshooting, and documentation, typically requiring knowledge of operational procedures and safety standards.

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.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in securing jobs like assistant operator roles due to high competition, limited work experience, and evolving skill requirements such as familiarity with digital tools and safety protocols. Employers often seek candidates with relevant certifications or technical skills, which can be less accessible to younger applicants without prior experience.

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.

Which operator job pays the most?

Among operator roles, industrial machine operators and petroleum pump system operators tend to have the highest average salaries, often exceeding $50,000 to $70,000 annually depending on experience and location. Specialized operators with certifications in areas like crane operation or nuclear plant operation can earn higher wages, sometimes over $80,000 per year.

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 are Assistant Operators?

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.
More about Assistant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs? The most popular types of Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Assistant Operator jobs? The top employers for Assistant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Operator jobs include:
Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,222 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Assistant Operator

Assistant Operator

Pratt Industries

Emmaus, PA

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 106 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 114 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Perks of Pratt?

  • PAID Holidays from Day 1
  • Insurance benefits and wellness reimbursement program within ONE MONTH of hire
  • 3 Months: 401(k) with match
  • 6 Months: PAID vacation days
  • 12 Months: FULL tuition reimbursement and PAID childbearing and parenting leave

Qualifications? Only ONE thing:

  1. Strong desire to learn and grow in a state-of-the-art, fast-paced environment

What do Production Workers do at Pratt Industries?

Our Production Workers help with all aspects of turning recycled paper into sheets of Corrugated board and getting them to our customers! Think boxes for pizzas, and ecommerce deliveries, and more!

What's it like working here?

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Regularly required to stand, walk, talk, and hear.
  • Frequently required to use hands to handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms.
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit.
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds with assistance
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to apply concepts of high school math.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
  • Frequently exposed to wet, hot, and/or humid conditions.
  • Occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.


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