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Associate Operator Jobs in Cleveland, TN (NOW HIRING)

Welch Packaging Group Inc

Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Production Associates will also be responsible for following all safety procedures ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Actively engaged to meet daily customer demand and production schedule. * Ensure safety ...

Welch Packaging Group

Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Production Associates will also be responsible for following all safety procedures ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Actively engaged to meet daily customer demand and production schedule. * Ensure safety ...

SK Food Group

PIT Operator

Mcdonald, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

We are looking for a PIT Operator that will supervise hourly associates working in theWarehouse department and assure company standards by implementing and maintaining the quality management system.

Welch Packaging

Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Production Associates will also be responsible for following all safety procedures ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Actively engaged to meet daily customer demand and production schedule. * Ensure safety ...

Omnimax

Machine Operator-Temp Conversion

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

We are looking for a skilled individual to join our team as a Machine Operator! Benefits of Working ... associates support diversity and inclusion in the workplace. OmniMax prohibits unlawful ...

Shaw Industries

Lift Truck Operator

Ringgold, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

... Lift Truck Operators for 2nd shift (Monday-Friday, 4:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.) to safely move and ... Learn more ( Award Winning The success of our company and the success of our associates go hand-in ...

Shaw Industries Inc

Lift Truck Operator

Ringgold, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

... Lift Truck Operators for 2nd shift (Monday-Friday, 4:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.) to safely move and ... Learn more ( Award Winning The success of our company and the success of our associates go hand-in ...

Customer Driven Staffing - Tennessee

Be Seen First

Now Hiring - Chemical Operators

Dayton, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Major job duties of the Operator include completing the entire chemical production process ... Associate degree a plus. Ability to perform moderate physical work, and standing for sustained ...

Harbor Freight Tools

Retail Sales Associate

Hixson, TN · On-site

$15/hr

Respectful schedules during operating hours of 6am - 10pm. Why You'll Love it: * People First Culture * Paid time off * Associate discounts * Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance for all associates

Harbor Freight Tools

Retail Sales Associate

Dalton, GA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Respectful schedules during operating hours of 6am - 10pm. Why You'll Love it: * People First Culture * Paid time off * Associate discounts * Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance for all associates

Harbor Freight Tools

Retail Sales Associate

Dayton, TN · On-site

$14/hr

Respectful schedules during operating hours of 6am - 10pm. Why You'll Love it: * People First Culture * Paid time off * Associate discounts * Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance for all associates

Arkema

Production Operator Job

Dalton, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Filling / Production Operator Associate of the plant production team reporting to the production and filling supervisor. Work and train on multiple machines and support team members when needed in ...

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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.

Operator

Welch Packaging Group Inc

Chattanooga, TN

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Welch Packaging rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Description

SUMMARY

Responsible for helping to create finished products by assisting with machine operation, manual labor, and maintaining production standards. Production Associates will also be responsible for following all safety procedures

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Actively engaged to meet daily customer demand and production schedule.
  • Ensure safety standards are maintained at all times.
  • Setup and adjust machine settings to meet product specifications.
  • Troubleshoot problems throughout production run.
  • Checks and assures box quality, including, but not limited to lose liner, warp, correct size, and print.
  • Adhere to production schedule. Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Production Lead.
  • Performs job in a safe, efficient and productive manner, while maximizing the utilization of equipment at available capacity and speed.
  • Train and assist assistant and helper with job duties on the machine.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
  • Follows all company, local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations.
  • Other tasks as assigned

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent preferred

Experience

1+ years in a manufacturing/production environment

Ability to work safely adhering to all safety processes and policies.

Previous experience in a CORRUGATED manufacturing / production environment

Previous experience with cycle counting preferred

Forklift Experience a plus

Proven ability to work SAFELY adhering to all safety processes and policies

Ability to work a flexible schedule on occasion to support operational and business needs

SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES

  • Strong written and oral communication. 
  • Organization and attention to detail. 
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Time management. 
  • Systems analysis. 
  • Mathematical and deductive reasoning. 
  • Critical thinking. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSCIAL DEMANDS

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk and communicate with team members. 
  • The employee frequently is required to use hands, reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. 
  • The employee must regularly lift and or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perceptions and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to ambient temperatures. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Disclaimer: This list does not represent all physical demands. Descriptions are representative of those that must be met by employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the jobs' essential functions.

Welch Packaging is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran

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