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Junior Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Production Associate

Shelby, MI · On-site

$18.50/hr

... junior operators in their assigned responsibilities. • Repair and clean the equipment when needed. • Evaluate equipment performance and recommend improvements. • Operate trucks and other ...

Production Associate

Shelby, MI · On-site

$18.50/hr

... junior operators in their assigned responsibilities. • Repair and clean the equipment when needed. • Evaluate equipment performance and recommend improvements. • Operate trucks and other ...

Production Associate

Shelby, MI · On-site

$18.50/hr

... junior operators in their assigned responsibilities. • Repair and clean the equipment when needed. • Evaluate equipment performance and recommend improvements. • Operate trucks and other ...

MI · On-site

Train and guide junior mechanics and operators on proper equipment use and maintenance techniques. * Ensure compliance with safety regulations, manufacturer specifications, and company policies ...

MI · On-site

Train and guide junior mechanics and operators on proper equipment use and maintenance techniques. * Ensure compliance with safety regulations, manufacturer specifications, and company policies ...

Machinist 2: CNC Lathe Operator

Sturgis, MI · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Previous manufacturing or machine assembly experience required (equivalent to a junior machinist at Burr Oak Tool). * General computer skills. * Good written and verbal communication skills. * Strong ...

Showing results 41-60

Junior Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$19.6K

$63.2K

$108.1K

How much do junior operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior operator in Michigan is $63,175.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $73,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Operator, you typically need a high school diploma, basic mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control panels, and tools such as PLCs or SCADA systems is often required, along with any relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate operation of equipment in manufacturing or production environments.

Which junior operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying junior operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and construction, where specialized skills or certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the technical nature and safety responsibilities involved. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry demand, but generally, junior operators in energy or heavy industry tend to earn the most among entry-level roles.

What is a junior operator?

Junior Operators are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of machines, equipment, or production processes within industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, or utilities. They typically work under the supervision of senior operators, performing tasks like monitoring equipment, reporting issues, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Junior Operators play a crucial role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently while gaining hands-on experience and training for more advanced roles in the future.

What is the difference between Junior Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectJunior OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised settingsManufacturing or industrial settings, more autonomous
Employer UsageTraining role, developmental positionSkilled role, responsible for operating machinery
Common Search IntentEntry-level, training, beginnerOperational, machinery handling, skilled work

The main difference between a Junior Operator and a Machine Operator lies in experience and responsibility. Junior Operators are typically entry-level, focusing on learning and assisting, while Machine Operators are more experienced, responsible for operating and maintaining machinery independently.

What are some common challenges faced by a junior operator in their first year, and how can they be overcome?

Junior Operators often encounter challenges such as learning to operate new machinery, adapting to shift work, and understanding complex safety procedures. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking guidance from experienced colleagues and actively participating in on-the-job training can help ease the transition. Building strong communication with team members and supervisors is key to quickly resolving issues and developing confidence in your role. Staying proactive in asking questions and reviewing operational manuals will also support your growth as you gain hands-on experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Junior Operator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Junior Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,175 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Production Associate

PPG Industries, Inc.

Shelby, MI • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Production Associate - Shelby, MI
Pay: $18.50/hour
As a Production Operator you will be a crucial part of our operations, ensuring that a quality product is available to our customers when they need them. Your work will directly affect people's lives!
Primary Responsibilities
• Manufacturing Production Workers focus on setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting manufacturing production (i.e., machining, processing, assembly, or packaging) equipment including setup the production equipment and supplies before executing the job orders.
• Operate equipment safely and effectively for production processing.
• Ensure that equipment are maintained in good and safe working condition.
• Inspect equipment to identify any replacements, malfunctions and repairs.
• Perform regular equipment maintenance to ensure production capacity and quality.
• Provide assistance to junior operators in their assigned responsibilities.
• Repair and clean the equipment when needed.
• Evaluate equipment performance and recommend improvements.
• Operate trucks and other industrial vehicles to transfer the production equipment between warehouse and working area.
• Follow safety procedures and company policies for equipment operation.
Qualifications
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a consistent basis throughout the day.
• Ability to work overtime as needed.
About us:
PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD®
Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on X.
The PPG Way 2030
We are customer champions
Proactive. Bold. Trustworthy. Everything we do starts with our customers. We listen, move fast and don't stop until we solve their biggest challenges. When our customers win, we all grow.
We act with purpose and speed
Agile. Data-driven. Empowered. We take smart risks to stay ahead of the competition. We work proactively with agility, using quality data to develop solutions that create value.
We are excellent operators
Productive. Collaborative. Accountable. No matter our role, we identify problems, take ownership and always bring solutions. We are both proactive and responsive to drive continuous improvement and deliver results. We support our frontline, the faces of PPG to our customers.
We compete to win
Future-focused. Driven. Ambitious. We are passionate about growing our business and winning with our customers. We deliver results, embrace new technologies and leverage agility and speed as strengths.
We are PPG proud
Strong. United. Passionate. We work safely, act with integrity and value our diverse perspectives. We celebrate achievements and take pride in the positive impact we create together to protect and beautify the world.
At PPG we use AI in the hiring process to make the process more efficient. AI tools do not make hiring decisions. You can learn more by going to https://careers.ppg.com/us/en/candidate-resources.
PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
If you need an adjustment due to a disability, please email recruiting@ppg.com.
PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply.
Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents. Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process.
PPG values your feedback on our recruiting process. We encourage you to visit Glassdoor.com and provide feedback on the process, so that we can do better today than yesterday.