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Associate Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Scoular

Associate Elevator Operator

Salina, KS · On-site

Scoular is seeking motivated grain elevator operators to join our team and contribute to our mission of creating safe and reliable supply chain solutions for our customers. * Safely load and unload ...

HR Partners

Warehouse Associate/Forklift Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Warehouse Associate/Forklift Operator Company: Asset Life Cycle, LLC Schedule: Full-time Location: Topeka, KS General Duties * Load/unload shipment into various types of container or truck using a ...

Scoular

Associate Elevator Operator

Brewster, KS · On-site

Scoular is seeking motivated grain elevator operators to join our team and contribute to our mission of creating safe and reliable supply chain solutions for our customers. * Safely load and unload ...

Scoular

Associate Elevator Operator

Goodland, KS · On-site

Scoular is seeking motivated grain elevator operators to join our team and contribute to our mission of creating safe and reliable supply chain solutions for our customers. * Safely load and unload ...

Mars

Packaging Operator (Herren)

Topeka, KS · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Being a Mars Associate is all about opportunity. The opportunity to do challenging, exciting work ... Packaging Operators are system experts in their assigned areas and are highly functional in ...

Mars, Incorporated

Processing Operator (Lavery)

Topeka, KS · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Process Operator Shift: Nights Location: Mars - Topeka, Kansas Mars is looking to hire a Process ... Being a Mars Associate is all about opportunity. The opportunity to do challenging, exciting work ...

Mars

Processing Operator (Lavery)

Topeka, KS · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Process Operator Shift: Nights Location: Mars - Topeka, Kansas Mars is looking to hire a Process ... Being a Mars Associate is all about opportunity. The opportunity to do challenging, exciting work ...

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Associate Operator information

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How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Kansas is $13.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.31 and $14.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate operator?

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Associate Operator jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Associate Operator job openings:
Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,674 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Garmin International, Inc.

Olathe, KS • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time SMT Operator (2nd Shift) in our Olathe, KS location. In this role, you will be responsible for assembling surface mount technology (SMT) electronic sub-assemblies using robotic machines.
Essential Functions
  • Learn and apply basic skills for becoming a certified SMT Operator by completing written training objectives and demonstrating proficiency
  • Attend to machines by quickly and efficiently loading/replenishing feeders with reels of components, entering programs into automated placement machinery, setting up support fixtures, and prepping multiple assembly lines for next shop order with the primary goal being to maximize machine productive time read shop orders, follow production work instruction and sample assemblies, and receive verbal/written instructions regarding duties to be performed
  • Provide daily status and process communications via e-mail to SMT Machine Operators on other shifts, Production Management and Process Engineering
  • Position, align, and hand-place components in specified relationship to each other in jig, fixture or conveyance during sequential assembly of printed circuit boards
  • Collect quality data, essential for continuous improvement and tracking of factory deliverables
  • Perform operator level preventive maintenance on machines, per Garmin requirements
  • Troubleshoot component placement and machine issues that are commensurate with associate's level of expertise, training, and latitude provided by Process Engineering
  • Mount components such as transformers, resistors, capacitors, integrated circuits and sockets on chassis, panel or printed circuit board
  • Notify management of any conditions felt as being undesirable or nonconforming to product specification and any procedures that cannot be performed as documented
  • Collect scrap information from machinery and investigate root cause for excessive scrap
  • Maintain component reels in stocking locations as required, promptly returning after use and always observing proper ESD and contamination prevention handling practices outlined in Garmin procedures
  • Observe safe production practices by only operating machines with all safety doors closed and with all safety guards in place
  • Compliance with HRD-003 (Garmin's Attendance Policy)
  • Compliance with DOT (Department of Transportation) requirements
  • Must be able to lift and/or move 30 pounds
  • Must possess a high degree of dexterity and eye coordination, to allow manipulation of buttons, switches, hand tools and knobs on delicate equipment, products and parts, in the performance of essential functions
  • Cleanliness zone area requirements: This position requires Garmin provided personal protective equipment including SD shoes (Static Dissipative Footwear) to be always worn for an entire shift to minimize the risk of electrostatic discharge (ESD) and meet specified standards
  • Must effectively participate in team meetings to discuss Productivity, Efficiency, Quality and other topics related to successful manufacturing practices
  • Must be able to adapt to changing priorities and react/recover responsibly
  • Maintain acceptable organization and cleanliness in work area
  • Identify all material properly
  • Maintain orderly work center conditions with proper housekeeping and effective shift turnover

Basic Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Must possess previous machine operation experience or related production or equipment control experience
  • Demonstrated verbal, interpersonal, and written communication skills, to provide for respectful work-related communications with peers and associates from other departments (direct contact and use of electronic mail systems)
  • Must demonstrate the ability to routinely read numbers and differentiate between similar numbers in Garmin's part numbering system
  • Must demonstrate the ability to navigate in basic computer applications such as MS Windows
  • Must demonstrate the ability to learn to navigate in specific computer applications such as Oracle and Fuji Cam
  • Must possess a high degree of dexterity and eye coordination, to allow manipulation of buttons, switches, hand tools and knobs on delicate equipment, products and parts, in the performance of essential functions
  • Associates operating machinery must have a mechanical aptitude with an attention to detail
  • Must possess the ability to bend, twist and lift up to 30 pounds while using safe lifting techniques, standing for an entire shift and walking long distances throughout the facility

Desired Qualifications
  • 2+ years assembly experience
  • Previous SMT Operator experience
  • Previous electronics manufacturing experience
  • Soldering skills (certificate desirable)
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment utilizing automated techniques to install Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Through-hole Technology (THT) components
  • Previous knowledge/use of IPC-A-610, Acceptance of Electronic Assemblies, workmanship standards

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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