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Operator Helper Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are ... Equipment Operator Marines: * Motor Vehicle Operator * Logistics Vehicle System Operator NO PHONE ...

At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are ... Equipment Operator Marines: * Motor Vehicle Operator * Logistics Vehicle System Operator NO PHONE ...

Lift Operator

Mccall, ID · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Will help ensure the lift shacks stay clean and garbage free daily. * Proper daily set up and ... All operators will be required to complete training in: * Lift Operations operational training

Lift Operator

Mccall, ID · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Will help ensure the lift shacks stay clean and garbage free daily. * Proper daily set up and ... All operators will be required to complete training in: * Lift Operations operational training

Lift Operator

Mccall, ID · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Will help ensure the lift shacks stay clean and garbage free daily. * Proper daily set up and ... All operators will be required to complete training in: * Lift Operations operational training

Driver Helper: Full Time

Jerome, ID · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Watkins Distributing is a family-owned and operated beverage distribution company that has proudly served Idaho and Montana for four generations. Job Summary: Driver Helpers are responsible for ...

Packaging Operator

American Falls, ID · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

If you have a strong drive for results, a desire to help us bring the world together through our ... Packaging Operator consists of 3 main validation areas: Main Lines Packaging Co Products Packaging ...

Packaging Operator

American Falls, ID · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

If you have a strong drive for results, a desire to help us bring the world together through our ... Packaging Operator consists of 3 main validation areas: Main Lines Packaging Co Products Packaging ...

Driver Helper: Full Time

Jerome, ID · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Watkins Distributing is a family-owned and operated beverage distribution company that has proudly served Idaho and Montana for four generations. Job Summary: Driver Helpers are responsible for ...

Packaging Operator

American Falls, ID · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

If you have a strong drive for results, a desire to help us bring the world together through our ... Packaging Operator consists of 3 main validation areas: Main Lines Packaging Co Products Packaging ...

Our commitment to your success is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, designed to help ... As a Bestbath production operator, you'll play a key role in crafting high-quality fiberglass ...

Packaging Operator

American Falls, ID · On-site +1

$15.75 - $19/hr

If you have a strong drive for results, a desire to help us bring the world together through our ... Packaging Operator consists of 3 main validation areas: Main Lines Packaging Co Products Packaging ...

Our commitment to your success is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, designed to help ... As a Bestbath production operator, you'll play a key role in crafting high-quality fiberglass ...

Yard Operator

Boise, ID · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Yard Operator Boise - Caldwell, ID 83605 Overview Salary Range $23.00 - $26.00 Hourly Position Type ... Become an owner in the company you help build and secure your financial future. * Generous Paid ...

New

Yard Operator

Caldwell, ID · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Yard Operator Boise - Caldwell, ID 83605 Overview Salary Range $23.00 - $26.00 Hourly Position Type ... Become an owner in the company you help build and secure your financial future. * Generous Paid ...

The Dryer Operator is a key member of the production team. As a Dryer Operator at Idaho Milk ... Arrives for work on time and ready to help operate the business successfully. * Operates and cleans ...

Showing results 41-60

Operator Helper information

See Idaho salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Idaho is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Operator Helper vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator HelperEquipment Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings assisting equipment operatorsConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings operating heavy machinery
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors as support staffUsed in similar sectors but with responsibility for operating machinery
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level support roles in machinery operationLearning about operating heavy equipment and related roles

The main difference between an Operator Helper and an Equipment Operator is that the Helper assists with supporting tasks and does not operate heavy machinery independently, while the Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and controlling machinery directly. Both roles are essential in industrial and construction environments, but they differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

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

To thrive as an Operator Helper, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, hand tools, and sometimes forklift certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are crucial soft skills for supporting operators and maintaining a safe work environment. These abilities ensure smooth production processes, minimize downtime, and contribute to overall workplace safety and efficiency.

What is an operator helper?

Operator Helpers assist machine operators, technicians, or skilled workers in manufacturing, construction, or production environments. Their duties often include preparing materials, maintaining equipment, cleaning work areas, and helping ensure smooth operation of machinery. They play a vital role in supporting workflow, reducing downtime, and keeping the workplace safe and efficient. Operator Helpers typically work under direct supervision and may advance to more specialized roles with experience.

What are some common challenges operator helpers face on the job, and how can they overcome them?

Operator Helpers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced environments, maintaining safety standards, and learning to operate different types of machinery. To overcome these challenges, it's important to be proactive in communicating with team members, strictly follow safety protocols, and seek out on-the-job training opportunities. Building strong relationships with experienced operators can also help new Operator Helpers gain valuable insights and hands-on experience, making it easier to navigate daily responsibilities and advance within the team.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Idaho? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Idaho are:
What cities in Idaho are hiring for Operator Helper jobs? Cities in Idaho with the most Operator Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Idaho as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,225 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Distributor Operator

Knife River

Boise, ID • On-site

Full-time

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


Knife River rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

Distributor Operator

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.

Knife River has an excellent opportunity for a Distributor Operator. The Distributor Operator position consists of operating an asphalt distributor by applying specialized emulsions to roadways, which are then covered by a chip spreader. The operator is responsible for setting the pace for the paving operation. This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires demonstrable previous experience as an Asphalt Distributor Operator.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must have an understanding, and ability to spray various asphalt emulsions on road surfaces.
  • Must be able to workday shifts and night shifts. Shifts may vary according to project demands.
  • Must be able to work overtime and be flexible with hours (daytime/nighttime).
  • Ability to work outside in all seasons.
  • Must have transportation to departure area.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Drive and operate asphalt distributor truck equipped with tank to spray asphalt emulsions on road surfaces.
  • Connect hose from storage tank to truck tank and moves lever to fill pressure tank with asphalt liquid.
  • Regulate burner to heat liquid and start auxiliary pump.
  • Snap or screw on spray bars to attain required width of spray.
  • Turn valve to regulate flow of material at specified rate and adjust levers to adjust height of spray bar from road surface.
  • Monitor flow gages, tachometer and temperature gauge to insure uniform distribution.
  • Perform daily safety checks of fluid levels on oil, water, fuel and inspections for leaks and damage to machine before operation.
  • Must be able to shoot tack, prime, and seal on a daily basis, as needed.
  • Responsible for the efficient working condition of the equipment; and is expected to perform minor servicing and maintenance or refer major problems to the supervisor.
  • May perform other related duties as instructed.
  • Timely and regular attendance is essential to the asphalt distributor position.

How To Apply: Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law. Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.

At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Distributor Truck Driver position:

Air Force:

  • Ground Transportation Apprentice
  • Ground Transportation Journeyman
  • Ground Transportation Helper

Army:

  • Motor Transport Operator

Navy:

  • Equipment Operator

Marines:

  • Motor Vehicle Operator
  • Logistics Vehicle System Operator

NO PHONE CALLS - To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application at www.kniferiver.com. If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to: Knife River - 5450 W Gowen Rd, Boise, Idaho 83709

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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