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Associate Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Operator, Production

Belvidere, NJ · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

As an Associate Operator ,you will be responsible for producing quality intermediates and finished products according to a pre-determined operations plan. Operation of process equipment in accordance ...

HS Diploma, Associate's degree, B.S. degree, or equivalent. Benefits We offer competitive salary, incentive and benefit programs. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, company paid life and ...

Production Associate / Operator

Stanley, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Multiple positions available. Open to reviewing candidates with construction or landscaping experience. Do not submit candidates who have previously interviewed at this site. For candidates with past ...

Every day, we rise to the challenge to make a difference and here's how the Associate Operator role will make an impact: Key responsibilities for this role include: * Visually inspect the product ...

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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 cities are hiring for Associate Operator jobs? Cities with the most Associate Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs? The most popular types of Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Process Experts are responsible for the safe operation of a continuous polymerization process from raw material handling to packaging of final product. Process Experts not only maintain but also drive to improve Stewardship, Quality, Reliability, and Engagement. Each Process Expert is expected to become fully qualified in four process areas: Pellet Handling, Tank Farm, Continuous Polymerization, and a fourth topped out area, which is either DCS, Lab, or Utilities.


  • Meet behavior expectations in the areas of stewardship, quality, productivity, and teamwork and actively participate in continuous improvement efforts.
  • Perform assigned core team (stewardship, quality, or reliability) and supplemental role responsibilities as assigned. 
  • Perform routine and non-routine tasks as assigned, but not limited to, task boards, on-shift predictive/preventive maintenance (PPM), breakdown repair and scheduled shutdown/turnaround activities in area of expertise. 
  • Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Participate in and lead daily meetings with the assigned shift operating team.
  • Communicate critical shift change information to the oncoming crew and document problems and learning value using tools such as shift turnover log, electronic logbook, Microsoft Outlook, etc.
  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures to operate assigned area of the plant
  • Utilize personal computer skills to optimize and troubleshoot product quality and equipment operations via HMI, PLC and DCS interface.
  • Document maintenance work requests and activities performed utilizing maintenance execution system (SAP).
  • Perform standard and non-routine testing of product quality.
  • Analyze process and product variation and take corrective action utilizing statistical quality control techniques and process data historians (Aspen-Tech IP.21).
  • Initiate and participate in Root Cause Analysis/Problem Solving Events of EHS, Quality, Productivity and Reliability incidents.
  • Patrol assigned area to visually inspect, monitor equipment and process conditions to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures and environmental regulations. 
  • Operate fork trucks and motorized equipment.
  • Load and unload material to/from railcars, tank trailers, and drums.

  • The individual will work as a member of an empowered team in a 12-hr rotating (4-4-3-3) shift job assignment in all areas of the plant.
  • Overtime is required to cover vacancies due to illness, vacation of other team members, and scheduled meetings.
  • Process area is non-air conditioned and requires wearing fire resistant clothing due to possible presence of flammable atmospheres.
  • Individual must periodically don specialty thermal protective clothing as some tasks have potential exposure to molten polymer and high temperature heat transfer fluids during line breaks and maintenance tasks. Individual must be able to safely don this equipment.
  • The job entails periodic heavy lifting utilizing safe ergonomic behaviors.  Individual must be capable of lifting 50 lb.
  • Must be able to climb stairs, ladders, and scaffolding frequently during the shift in various environments.
  • Individual must be medically approved to wear a respirator.
  • Individual must be capable of working in a confined space where supplied breathing air or respirators may be required.
  • Must be able to work standing, walking or sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to work in high noise atmosphere and wear hearing protection.
  • Must be able to occasionally operate mobile equipment.
  • Must be able to work from heights.
  • Individual must be capable of performing simple math computations involving ratios and fractions.
  • Individual must possess strong interpersonal and teamwork skills capable of working in an empowered team environment.

To be qualified to apply for this role, the following is required: 

  • High School Diploma/GED equivalent
  • Valid driver’s license

The following skill sets are preferred:

  • Previous experience in a manufacturing, industrial facility, or utilities
  • Previous experience in a chemical manufacturing environment
  • Previous fork truck or forklift experience  
  • Experience with SAP or equivalent manufacturing execution software