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Associate Operator Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Greenville, MI · On-site

$14/hr

Operator Department: Manufacturing Position Description: Responsible for working on the ... levels of associates. - Other duties as assigned by supervision. Other Requirements: - All ...

Forklift Operator Overview: * $22/hr+, pending experience Forklift Operator Job Duties: * Organize ... Peoplelink, LLC's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Forklift Operator Overview: * $22/hr+, pending experience Forklift Operator Job Duties: * Organize ... Peoplelink, LLC's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Machine Operator

Lowell, MI · On-site

$18.50/hr

Machine Operator Peoplelink Staffing Solutions in partnership with a prominent client in Lowell, MI ... Peoplelink's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Machine Operator Job Summary: * $16 per hour, plus $.35 shift premium for 2nd and 3rd shfit * 1st ... Peoplelink, LLC's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Forklift Operator * 1st shift: 5am - 4:30pm * $17/hr Key Responsibilities: * Operate Hi-Lo ... Peoplelink LLC's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Forklift Operator * 1st shift: 5am - 4:30pm * $17/hr Key Responsibilities: * Operate Hi-Lo ... Peoplelink LLC's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Advanced Operator

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Advanced Operator Engine Power Components, Inc. Opportunity at Grand Haven, Michigan facility (on ... Train other associates * Complete all tasks in a safe manner complying with all organization safety ...

Advanced Operator

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Advanced Operator Engine Power Components, Inc. Opportunity at Grand Haven, Michigan facility (on ... Train other associates * Complete all tasks in a safe manner complying with all organization safety ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Holland, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Staffing Inc. is partnered with a local innovative packaging company in Holland, MI who is actively looking to hire a qualified Machine Operator Associate. This company provides a variety of ...

Machine Operator-2nd Shift

Holland, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Staffing Inc. is partnered with a local innovative packaging company in Holland, MI who is actively looking to hire a qualified Machine Operator Associate. This company provides a variety of ...

We cultivate a workplace where independent thinking is encouraged, and every associate plays a ... Prog Press Operator RESPONSIBLITIES: * Must be familiar with press operations * Assembles, installs ...

Zeeland, MI Adecco is hiring Machine Operators in Zeeland, MI for a leading manufacturing company ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Zeeland, MI Adecco is hiring Machine Operators in Zeeland, MI for a leading manufacturing company ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Prog Press Operator

Holland, MI · On-site

$21.50/hr

We cultivate a workplace where independent thinking is encouraged, and every associate plays a ... Prog Press Operator RESPONSIBLITIES: * Must be familiar with press operations * Assembles, installs ...

Zeeland, MI Adecco is hiring Machine Operators in Zeeland, MI for a leading manufacturing company ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Machine Operators

Rockford, MI · On-site

$17.50/hr

Operator Job Summary: * START ASAP! * $17.50/hr * 1st shift - 6:50am-3pm * 2nd shift: 2:50pm-11pm ... Peoplelink, LLC's dedication to the safety, health & well-being of our associates, clients and ...

Adecco, in partnership with Tennant Company, is actively seeking a dedicated Rotomold Operator to ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

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Associate Operator information

See Grand Rapids, MI salary details

$11

$14

$16

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Grand Rapids, MI is $14.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.15 and $15.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Grand Rapids, MI? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:
What cities near Grand Rapids, MI are hiring for Associate Operator jobs? Cities near Grand Rapids, MI with the most Associate Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Grand Rapids, 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 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,556 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Operator

Clarion Technologies

Greenville, MI • On-site

$14/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description


Job Title: Operator

Department: Manufacturing

Position Description: Responsible for working on the manufacturing floor involved in the production, assembly, inspection, and reporting of manufactured products.


Primary Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

- Review Operator Work/Packaging Instructions.

- Review Boundary samples.

- Review First piece samples, and trim samples as required.

- Review/understand Roadmap.

- Ensure product container is clean, free of old labels, and verify correct labels are applied.

- Operate manufacturing equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

- Maintain Plant cleanliness and organization.

- Perform trimming, de-gating, and assembly/decorating operations as defined.

- Inspect and verify part quality.

- Perform quality checks at required intervals and document.

- Collect and record daily production.

- At start/end of shift, communicate with prior/next shift any process or product issues.


Additional Responsibilities:

- Work requires timely reaction/escalation to safety or quality issues.

- Grind and/or dispose of scrap, as directed.

- Participate, as needed, in internal problem solving/improvement activities.

- Read, interpret, and apply logic to carry out instructions provided in written, oral, or diagram form.

- Communicate effectively with all levels of associates.

- Other duties as assigned by supervision.


Other Requirements:

- All employees are responsible for complying with the safety policies and procedures.

- Must complete training requirements for the position, as outlined in training matrix.

- Lifting shoulder high up to 40 lbs. repetitively.

- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

- Working in a non-climate-controlled environment.

- Work requires repetitive motion activities including but not limited to box cutting, standing, lifting, pushing/pulling, bending, and loading/unloading.

- Perform basic math functions – addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

- Able to support overtime during week or weekends.


Position Key Interfaces

Internal:

- Production Supervisors/Team Leads/Relief Operators

- Quality, Manufacturing and Process Engineers


External:

- Corporate Manufacturing support


Key Measure Accountability:

- Safety

- Quality

- Judgement/Decision Making

- Teamwork/Interpersonal Skills

- Attention to detail and accuracy of work

- Cleanliness




Clarion Technologies logo

About Clarion Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We’re More Than Advanced Injection Molding We pride ourselves on providing innovative solutions for our clients problems. Everything about our facilities and the capabilities we’ve perfected has been built around doing just that. Serving the Automotive, Appliance and Consumer Industries Whether you’re in your car, in your kitchen or in your physician’s office, you’re likely interacting with a Clarion manufactured product.

Industry

Plastics product manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Holland, MI, US

Year founded

1988