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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Manufacturing

Chatsworth, GA

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Job Title Entry Level Manufacturing Position Overview Shaw Industries is looking for Entry Level ... Burn In Operator - Responsible for burning-in yarn during a beam change as well as creeling yarn in ...

Metal Operator

Dunlap, TN · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Fulfilling output requirements while reducing scrap levels. * Entry Level CNC Programming and setting the equipment up. * Lifting/moving up to 75 pounds. Educational Level High School Diploma Special ...

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Entry Level Operator information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

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$19

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Chattanooga, TN is $15.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What is an entry level operator?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

How to become an entry level operator with no experience?

To become an entry level operator with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training if applicable. Employers often look for a willingness to learn, good communication skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols, so demonstrating these qualities can improve your chances of starting in an entry-level role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:
What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs? Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,076 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Entry Level Manufacturing

Shaw Industries Group, Inc.

Chatsworth, GA • On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Entry Level Manufacturing
Position Overview
Shaw Industries is looking for Entry Level Manufacturing associates.
Shaw Industries Group, Inc. is a leader in flooring and other surface solutions designed for residential housing, commercial spaces and outdoor environments. Leveraging strengths in design, innovation and operational excellence, the company takes a people-centered, customer-focused, and growth-minded approach to meet diverse market needs. It creates differentiated customer experiences through its expansive portfolio of brands: Anderson Tuftex, COREtec, Shaw Floors, Patcraft, Philadelphia Commercial, Shaw Contract, Shaw Sports Turf, Shawgrass, Southwest Greens, Watershed Geo and more.
Headquartered in Dalton, Georgia, Shaw is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. with more than $6 billion in annual sales and 18,000 associates worldwide.
Below are the positions that you will be considered for when you apply to this job posting.
• Winder - Load packages of single or plied yarn on the carousel of the Back winder machine.
• Burn In Operator - Responsible for burning-in yarn during a beam change as well as creeling yarn in order to keep machines in operation.
• Creeler/Burn In - Keep creel racks full of yarn and yarn ends spliced together in the designated pattern allowing for efficient run ability of Warper.
• SewOn Operator - Sew rolls of carpet together at the front of the finishing line keeping an ample supply of carpet available for coating.
Air Entangling Operator - Load packaged filament yarn (nylon, polypropylene, and polyester) onto an Air Entanglement machine.
Job Requirements:
  • Responsibilities and physical requirements will be discussed during the interview.

Shaw benefits include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Life insurance and disability coverage
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
Health savings account
Paid Time Off
Parental Leave
401K and Retirement Plans
Product discounts for employees
Adoption assistance
Shaw Family Health Center (Dalton, GA, and Cartersville, GA, locations)
And much more.
Work Shift
8 Hr non-rotating shift, Hrs fall to out-punch day, Observed Calendar, shift starts PM
Shaw Industries is an equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.