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Associate Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

The Operator is accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and may also be required to perform other duties as a Production Associate. Offload inbound shipments safely and move ...

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI

$16 - $19/hr

The Operator is accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and may also be required to perform other duties as a Production Associate. Offload inbound shipments safely and move ...

Adecco

Forklift Operator

Livonia, MI

$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 ...

Piston Automotive

Forklift Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

The Operator is accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and may also be required to perform other duties as a Production Associate. Offload inbound shipments safely and move ...

Alliance Franchise Brands

Prepress Operator

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

The Prepress Operator plays a critical role in the printing production process by preparing and ... Associate degree or certification in graphic arts, printing technology, or a related field.

Aampower

Machine Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$18.50/hr

Job Posting Title Machine Operator Summary Our Machine Operators fill a vital role in the ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

Aampower

Heavy Press Operator

Royal Oak, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Job Posting Title Heavy Press Operator Summary Dauch's Royal Oak Manufacturing Facility is seeking ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

OmniMax International

Press Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

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

Dart Machinery LTD

Machine Operator

Warren, MI

$16 - $19/hr

Position Summary Machine Operators are responsible for performing operations on assigned machines ... Must be able to communicate with both management and non-management associates. EEO Statement: Race ...

Race Winning Brands

Machine Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Position Summary Machine Operators are responsible for performing operations on assigned machines ... Must be able to communicate with both management and non-management associates. EEO Statement: Race ...

AJM Packaging Corporation

Hi-Lo Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$18.35/hr

Hilo Operator AJM Packaging Corporation Taylor, MI Position Overview - AJM Packaging Corporation ... Follows company safety policies and procedures and encourages other associates to do the same.

AJM Packaging

Hi-Lo Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$18.35/hr

Hilo Operator AJM Packaging Corporation, one of America's leading manufacturers of paper products ... Follows company safety policies and procedures and encourages other associates to do the same.

Race Winning Brands

Machine Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Position Summary Machine Operators are responsible for performing operations on assigned machines ... Must be able to communicate with both management and non-management associates. EEO Statement: Race ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Operator JobsAssociate Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI

Associate Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$11

$14

$16

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Detroit, MI is $14.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.77 and $16.14 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 Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Associate Operator jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Associate Operator job openings:

Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,951 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Piston Automotive

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Piston Automotive rating

2.6

Company rating: 2.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate, stack and count stock. The Operator is accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and may also be required to perform other duties as a Production Associate. Offload inbound shipments safely and move to designated areas by use of forklift, pallet jack or other manual means. Efficiently stack and store the product as required by department. Stock and rotate materials as necessary. Maintain safe and clean work environment. Check materials received against bills of lading, purchase orders or other documents to verify correctness of incoming shipments. Identify objects, actions, and events that could be hazardous in the facility and report to your Manager.
Responsibilities
  • Inspect and Initiate appropriate action when material received is damaged or defective.
  • Communicate effectively
  • Work well with others.
  • Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area.
  • Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse.
  • Conduct operations in a manner that promotes safety.
  • Comply with OSHA, ISO and MSDS Standards
  • Perform routine inspections of Forklift by documenting safety or mechanical problems.
  • Always stay aware of pedestrians and other vehicles. (Two foot rule)
  • Assist in physical inventories

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • Fork lift certification (Piston Certification)
  • Valid Driver's License

What Piston Automotive employees say

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