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Associate Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Process Operator

Piperton, TN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Process Operator Collierville, TN, US 2nd Shift Opening About the Role: AOC is seeking a highly ... Associate's degree in a technical field * Experience with process control systems and automation

Processing Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Are you a skilled technical operator with a knack for troubleshooting and leadership? Mars is ... Additionally, you will have the opportunity to coach, train, and guide the dedicated associates on ...

The operator will also train other associates on how to operate friction cranes and material handlers while ensuring compliance with all company regulatory requirements. What you will be doing:

Process Operator

Piperton, TN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Process Operator Collierville, TN, US 2nd Shift Opening About the Role: AOC is seeking a highly ... Associate's degree in a technical field * Experience with process control systems and automation

What You Will Do as a Shrink Wrap Operator: * Associates will assist in all phases of both shipping ... Associates must be able to repetitively lift, push, or pull up to 30 lbs. consistently.

Equipment Operator

Ashland City, TN ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Company Description Ingram Marine Group encompasses our operating units involved in transporting ... Associate growth and development encouraged through internal training and tuition reimbursement ...

Production Operator

Clinton, TN ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

GEON Performance Solutions has 1,100 global associates and 12 world class manufacturing plants with ... Job Summary A working member of the Clinton production team responsible for safely operating ...

Equipment Operator

Ashland City, TN ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Company Description Ingram Marine Group encompasses our operating units involved in transporting ... Associate growth and development encouraged through internal training and tuition reimbursement ...

Production Operator

Clinton, TN

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

GEON Performance Solutions has 1,100 global associates and 12 world class manufacturing plants with ... Job Summary A working member of the Clinton production team responsible for safely operating ...

Operator - Mixer

Murfreesboro, TN ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

With more than 13,500 associates working globally in 100 countries and annual sales of $5.9 billion ... Purpose Statement The Mixer Operator is responsible for defining, clarifying and enhancing the ...

Machine Operator

Smyrna, TN ยท On-site

$21/hr

... Operator positions in Smyrna, TN ... This is a great opportunity to further your existing skills as a Warehouse Associate while learning ...

The associate is required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The associate may be required to ... Follows operating procedures * Keeps the area safe, clean and organized * Performs other related ...

At Seaman Corporation, every associate is instrumental to our success. Become a part of our growing team! TEXTILE MACHINE OPERATOR (12 HOUR NIGHT SHIFT) 7pm - 7am Summary: Responsible for operating ...

TEXTILE MACHINE OPERATOR (12 HOUR NIGHT SHIFT) 7pm - 7am Summary: Responsible for operating and ... The associate is occasionally exposed to work in high, precarious places. The noise level in the ...

Forklift Operator

Ashland City, TN ยท On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

... associates. Ingram Marine Group is looking for a Forklift Operator in the Ashland City, TN area ... The Forklift Operator at the river terminal is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$15

$17

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Tennessee is $15.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.07 and $16.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Which associate operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying associate operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Associate Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Associate Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,636 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Process Operator

Piperton, TN โ€ข On-site

AOC, LLC
501 - 1,000 employees

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Process Operator 

Collierville, TN, US

2nd Shift Opening

About the Role:

AOC is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Process Operator to join our team in the Manufacturing industry. As a Process Operator, you will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of our production processes. You will work closely with other team members to monitor and control the production process, troubleshoot issues, and maintain equipment. Your attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures will be critical to ensuring the quality and consistency of our products.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents and schematics
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate's degree in a technical field
  • Experience with process control systems and automation
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Responsibilities:

  • Operate and monitor production equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment
  • Follow standard operating procedures to ensure product quality and consistency
  • Maintain accurate production records and logs
  • Collaborate with team members to identify and implement process improvements

Skills:

As a Process Operator, you will use your technical knowledge and attention to detail to ensure the efficient and safe operation of our production processes. You will need to be able to read and interpret technical documents and schematics, troubleshoot issues, and follow standard operating procedures. Additionally, you will collaborate with other team members to identify and implement process improvements, and communicate effectively to ensure the quality and consistency of our product

EOE