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Associate Operator Jobs in Columbia, TN (NOW HIRING)

Adecco US, Inc.

Forklift Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19/hr

Adecco is currently assisting a local Customer in their search for Forklift Operator positions in ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

New

Adecco

Forklift Operator

Nashville, TN

$19/hr

Adecco is currently assisting a local Customer in their search for Forklift Operator positions in ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Adecco Colombia S.A.

Forklift Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19/hr

Adecco is currently assisting a local Customer in their search for Forklift Operator positions in ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

New

Automation Personnel Services

Grind Operator

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$14/hr

... associates. Click Apply Now to submit your application or contact Automation Personnel Services to learn more. About Automation Personnel Services Automation Personnel Services is a highly recognized ...

PrideStaff

2nd Shift Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50/hr

Job Title: Bagger Operator / Production Associate Location: Nashville, TN Pay Rate: $18.50 hour and weekly pay working through PrideStaff Shift: Monday - Friday, 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM (Mandatory ...

Ryder

Forklift Operator

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$30.50/hr

Ryder Warehouse Associates work in clean, organized, and well-run facilities to provide the safest ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ryder

Forklift Operator

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$30.50/hr

Ryder Warehouse Associates work in clean, organized, and well-run facilities to provide the safest ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ryder

Forklift Operator

Spring Hill, TN

$30.50/hr

Ryder Warehouse Associates work in clean, organized, and well-run facilities to provide the safest ... Valid Forklift Operator's License certified * Strong verbal and written communication skills

Home Depot

Warehouse Associate

Columbia, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Position Purpose: Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution ... or operating hand trucks, forklifts, hoists, motorized conveyors, or other material handling ...

Home Depot

Warehouse Associate

Nashville, TN

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Position Purpose: Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution ... or operating hand trucks, forklifts, hoists, motorized conveyors, or other material handling ...

Home Depot

Warehouse Associate

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Position Purpose: Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution ... or operating hand trucks, forklifts, hoists, motorized conveyors, or other material handling ...

Home Depot

Warehouse Associate

Columbia, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Position Purpose: Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution ... or operating hand trucks, forklifts, hoists, motorized conveyors, or other material handling ...

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All JobsAssociate Operator JobsAssociate Operator Jobs in Columbia, TN

Associate Operator information

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 Columbia, TN? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Columbia, TN are:
What cities near Columbia, TN are hiring for Associate Operator jobs? Cities near Columbia, TN with the most Associate Operator job openings:
Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Columbia, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Distribution Associate III (Equipment Operator)

New Balance

Nashville, TN • On-site

$27.60 - $33.10/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

New Balance rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 104 rated fashion retailers

Job description

Who We Are:
Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.
Work schedule: Sunday to Thursday - 10:00pm to 6:30am.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
  • Starting pay: $21.50 an hour + shift differential pay
  • Robust benefit offering to fit various lifestyles and life stages.
  • 40% Employee discount on New Balance (In-store and online).
  • Lifestyle Benefit program - reimbursement for eligible wellness and lifestyle activities.
  • Pay-for-Performance performance management program and company bonus payout eligibility
  • 401k Retirement: 100% match up to 5% of contributions and 100% vested.
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Discounts on: Cellular phones, Travel, Entertainment, Consumer Goods and much more!

JOB MISSION:
Responsible for all functions in the Distribution Center with safety as a priority to ensure the highest level of quality to our customers around the world.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
  • Safely operate Powered Industrial Vehicle (PIV).
    • Equipment Operator: Sit down or standup forklift/counterbalance and Order/Cherry Picker
    • Equipment Operator, Specialty: Reach Truck, Clamp Truck, and Swing Reach "Turret" Truck (additional to above).
  • Perform duties of Distribution Associates, as required.
    • Pick, pack, and ship customer orders, received and process returns/exchanges; troubleshoot problems to resolution.
    • Organize shipments to 3rd party distributors.
    • Sort, count, package, label, unpack and/or log inventory which is shipped or received.
    • Inspect shipments for damages or defects; record discrepancies or damages and notify supervisor.
    • Reorganize inventory on shelves in warehouse for seasonality.
    • Unpack shipment of product and replenish warehouse shelves.
    • Identify all returned defective units with proper defective reason code.
    • Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS
  • Able to operate lift equipment up to a height of 40 feet, as assigned.
  • Good communication skills required, including reading and understanding of the English language and ability to match numbers/letters.
  • Proven track record of stability and dependability in the workplace.
  • Ability to use RF scanner or WMS workstation.
  • Manual Dexterity: Must demonstrate full and functional range of motion in the fingers, hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders, including the ability to perform sustained extension and repetitive upper extremity movements as required by job duties.
  • Lifting & Carrying: Able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis.
  • Pushing & Pulling: Able to push and pull up to 75 lbs. safely and repeatedly.
  • Mobility & Endurance: Able to stand and walk on concrete surfaces for 8+ hours per day, with regular bending, reaching, twisting, crouching, and other dynamic movements.
  • Climbing: Able to climb ladders up to 12 feet, where applicable.
  • Stair Navigation & Elevated Work: Able to go up and down stairs and work at elevated heights, including on a mezzanine level up to 20 feet, where applicable.
  • High School diploma or general education degree (GED)/Home School equivalency preferred.

Nashville, TN Distribution Center Only Pay Range: $22.05 - $27.60 - $33.10 Hourly (actual base pay varying based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience, time in role, internal equity, geographic location, and more.)
Regular Associate Benefits
Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.
Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.
Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.
Equal Opportunity Employer
New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates and takes affirmative action to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran.

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