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Associate Operator Jobs in Cleveland, TN (NOW HIRING)

Mars, Incorporated

Processing Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · 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 ...

Mars

Processing Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$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 ...

Mars, Incorporated

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Operators must have the skill set to train and/or perform the tasks of other Associates in the area as needed. This job requires Strong Action Orientation, Communication, Interpersonal and Team ...

Mars

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Operators must have the skill set to train and/or perform the tasks of other Associates in the area as needed. This job requires Strong Action Orientation, Communication, Interpersonal and Team ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

Automation Personnel Services

Forklift Operator

Dalton, GA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator Automation Personnel Services is seeking a dependable Forklift Operator for a ... associates. Interested in this job? CLICK the APPLY NOW button or call us at 706-913-8000 to learn ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$19/hr

... associates, including holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ... Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our ...

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All JobsAssociate Operator JobsAssociate Operator Jobs in Cleveland, TN

Associate Operator information

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 Cleveland, TN?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Cleveland, TN are:

What cities near Cleveland, TN are hiring for Associate Operator jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, TN with the most Associate Operator job openings:

Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Cleveland, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Processing Machine Operator

Mars, Incorporated

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

125th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:
Job Description:
Are you a skilled technical operator with a knack for troubleshooting and leadership? Mars is looking for a Processing Machine Operator to take ownership of our production line's success.
In this role, you will be accountable for the performance of several machines, processes, and pieces of equipment, making key operational decisions at the line level to achieve target outputs and coordinate resources. As the first point of contact for technical issues on the line, you will use your mechanical training to lead troubleshooting efforts and repair mechanical breakdowns. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to coach, train, and guide the dedicated associates on your line, ensuring our team is set up for success every day.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operational Excellence: Maintain accountability for the performance, efficiency, and output of multiple machines, processes, and equipment on your assigned line.

  • Technical Troubleshooting: Identify, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical breakdowns on various production machinery to minimize downtime.

  • Team Coordination: Coordinate and support a small team of operators and temporary associates, assisting them with daily production tasks to ensure line targets are met.

  • Coaching & Development: Lead, train, and coach associates dedicated to your line, promoting a collaborative and high-performing team culture.

What are we looking for?
Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent education required.

  • Experience: 5+ years of experience working in a manufacturing environment.

  • Technical Skills: Formal mechanical training or a strong mechanical background is a must, with proven ability to lead machinery repairs.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Leadership: Experience leading, coaching, or coordinating a small team of associates.

  • Industry Experience: Experience working in FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) or a high-speed production environment.

What Can You Expect from Mars?
  • A Global Community: Work alongside over 130,000 like-minded and talented Associates, all guided by our core values, The Five Principles (Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom).

  • Purpose-Driven Work: Join a company that is striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

  • Continuous Learning: Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including exclusive access to our in-house Mars University.

  • Competitive Compensation: An industry-competitive salary and robust benefits package, including a company bonus scheme.

What Mars Inc. employees say

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