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Manufacturing Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Seeking full-time Crewman/Forklift Operator for non-woven manufacturing plant! Summary: * Pay starts at $16+/hr depending on experience * 12 hour Shifts on a fixed 2-2-3 schedule (Day: 7am-7pm or ...

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... symbols, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals ยท Demonstrated detail ... Manufacturing Supplier

Develop and maintain manufacturing work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), process documentation, and visual work aids. * Analyze production data and recommend improvements to ...

Manufacturing Worker

Mascot, TN ยท On-site

$15/hr

Operate manufacturing machinery and equipment according to standard operating procedures. * Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency and product quality. * Perform routine inspections and ...

Manufacturing Worker

Mascot, TN ยท On-site

$15/hr

Operate manufacturing machinery and equipment according to standard operating procedures. * Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency and product quality. * Perform routine inspections and ...

Manufacturing Worker

Mascot, TN ยท On-site

$15/hr

Operate manufacturing machinery and equipment according to standard operating procedures. * Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency and product quality. * Perform routine inspections and ...

Manufacturing Supervisor

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Salary Highly Competitive Plus Benefits Contract Permanent, full time Reporting to Chief Operating Officer Your role in the mission Type One Energy is seeking a highly motivated Manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Supervisor

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$57K - $78K/yr

Chief Operating Officer Your role in the mission: Type One Energy is seeking a highly motivated Manufacturing Supervisor to lead daily production operations supporting the fabrication, assembly ...

Operator

Pulaski, TN ยท On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Operators complete a variety of maintenance, development and operations tasks that promote the efficient production of a manufacturing plant, construction site or other professional setting. Their ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Work directly with machinists and operators to troubleshoot production issues * Address tooling ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related field * 1-3 ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Work directly with machinists and operators to troubleshoot production issues * Address tooling ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related field * 1-3 ...

Work directly with machinists and operators to troubleshoot production issues * Address tooling ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related field * 1-3 ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Trenton, TN

$59K - $76K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer - 2796 Develops, evaluates and improves industrial manufacturing methods ... Ensure equipment/process is safe when released to operators. * Sets up and conducts design of ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Trenton, TN ยท On-site

$59K - $76K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer - 2796 Develops, evaluates and improves industrial manufacturing methods ... Ensure equipment/process is safe when released to operators. * Sets up and conducts design of ...

Showing results 41-60

Manufacturing Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do manufacturing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing operator in Tennessee is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing operator?

A manufacturing operator is in charge of production equipment before, during, and after manufacturing. As a manufacturing operator, your duties are to implement assembly, test and inspect for issues, operate during the production process, and ensure all safety procedures are followed. Your responsibilities also include handling the setup of materials and supplies, maintaining equipment in working condition, and cleaning and repairing when needed. You report any hazardous conditions immediately to your supervisor and perform regular checks to ensure the quality of products and a safe work environment. The job often requires handling heavy equipment and operating industrial vehicles.

What skills and qualifications are important for a manufacturing operator?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, machinery operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with tools such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), automated manufacturing systems, and quality control software is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe, high-quality manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing operators, and how can they be managed?

Manufacturing Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and meeting tight production deadlines. To manage these challenges, operators are trained to follow strict safety and quality protocols, perform regular equipment checks, and communicate effectively with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Adaptability and attention to detail are key, as operators must respond quickly to issues and collaborate with colleagues to ensure smooth production flow. Proactively seeking feedback and staying updated on process improvements can also help operators succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Operator vs Production Technician?

AspectManufacturing OperatorProduction Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, equipment maintenance areas, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies across various industriesManufacturing and industrial facilities, often in specialized sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Manufacturing Operators primarily focus on operating machinery and ensuring production runs smoothly, often with minimal technical training. Production Technicians typically have more technical skills, including troubleshooting and maintenance, and may require additional certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but Production Technicians usually handle more complex tasks related to equipment upkeep and process improvements.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Manufacturing Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Manufacturing Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Operator jobs in TN?

For Manufacturing Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,990 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Crewman/Forklift Operator

Avanti MFG

Clarksville, TN โ€ข On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Seeking full-time Crewman/Forklift Operator for non-woven manufacturing plant!


Summary:

  • Pay starts at $16+/hr depending on experience
  • 12 hour Shifts on a fixed 2-2-3 schedule (Day: 7am-7pm or Night: 7pm-7am) 
    • $2.50/hr Night shift bonus for 7pm-7am shift!
  • Opportunity for growth and upward movement within the company
  • Must be willing to work holidays if scheduled - double time pay


Main Duties and Responsibilities:

  • 75% Warehouse/Production Helper, 25% Forklift
  • Need a basic understanding of production operations in a manufacturing plant
  • Clear scrap material and maintain clean work areas
  • Move materials around the warehouse by forklift and/or pallet jack
  • Operate a Forklift, Clamp Truck, and Box Truck
  • Inspect and maintain fork trucks and fill out inspection sheet
  • Operate a baler in a clean and safe way
  • Use Core Cutter and make accurate measurements to ensure good cuts
  • Must have an understanding of OSHA safety guidelines and know restricted areas for Forklifts
  • Must be willing to learn how to operate other machinery, as needed
  • Assist with packaging, as needed
  • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned


Requirements:


  • High School Diploma/GED required
  • Must be self-motivated and take initiative
  • At least 6 months forklift experience
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work in a hot environment
  • Must be able to stand for long periods, walk frequently, bend, lift, and reach as required by the position


Benefits:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Paid Time Off
  • Company-paid $50,000 Life Insurance
  • 401K Plan with Company match
  • Short term disability
  • Supplemental benefits


Pre-employment drug screen and background check are required during the onboarding process.