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Operator Helper Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Machine Helper

Carlisle, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed. * Train and assist First Helper, Flexo Stacker, and Bundlers with job duties on the machine. * Cross ...

Sewer Helper need for our Boothwyn, PA branch About Len the Plumber Heating and Air Len the Plumber ... operator onsite and excavation * Cut and assemble pipe fittings * Assist in backfill and clean up ...

Finisher Helper

Farrell, PA

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

As a Finisher Helper at Sharon Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries in Farrell, PA, you will ... This includes operating process equipment, handling materials, and ensuring the quality and ...

Forklift Operators help support this mission by replenishing product levels to ensure items can be easily accessed in the warehouse. These jobs are an important part of our team and help sustain our ...

Finisher Helper

Farrell, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

As a Finisher Helper at Sharon Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries in Farrell, PA, you will ... This includes operating process equipment, handling materials, and ensuring the quality and ...

Forklift Operators help support this mission by replenishing product levels to ensure items can be easily accessed in the warehouse. These jobs are an important part of our team and help sustain our ...

Forklift Operators help support this mission by replenishing product levels to ensure items can be easily accessed in the warehouse. These jobs are an important part of our team and help sustain our ...

Commercial Helper

Warrendale, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Ability to lift 50lbs Who We Are The Armstrong Group is a family owned and operated collection of diverse companies. What began in 1946 as Armstrong County Line Construction, founded by Jud L.

Commercial Helper

Warrendale, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Ability to lift 50lbs Who We Are The Armstrong Group is a family owned and operated collection of diverse companies. What began in 1946 as Armstrong County Line Construction, founded by Jud L.

Mechanic Helper

York, PA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Ability to discern when a piece of equipment is operating properly following corrective maintenance. * Ability to read parts and service manuals and identify needed parts for ordering. * Ability to ...

Mechanic Helper

York, PA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Ability to discern when a piece of equipment is operating properly following corrective maintenance. * Ability to read parts and service manuals and identify needed parts for ordering. * Ability to ...

Shop Helper

Ono, PA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

We are looking for an energetic, reliable Shop Helper to join our team in Ono, PA. We are a dynamic ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Shop Helper

Ono, PA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

We are looking for an energetic, reliable Shop Helper to join our team in Ono, PA. We are a dynamic ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Showing results 41-60

Operator Helper information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$11

$18

$22

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Pennsylvania is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $19.28 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 Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Operator Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,528 per year, or $18 per hour.

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Jump on the path of a lifelong career with a
GREAT company in Carlisle!
Pratt is America's 4th largest corrugated packaging company and the world's largest, privately-held producer of 100% recycled containerboard, with more than 9000 highly-skilled, green-collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability.
Pratt was founded in the USA more than 30 years ago and, since then, has shown dramatic growth with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than 27 states.
So what are the Perks of working at Pratt?
  • 401(k) & 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance - 1st of the month after you started
  • Dental insurance - 1st of the month after you started
  • Vision insurance - 1st of the month after you started
  • Paid Holidays - Eligiable day 1
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave

POSITION TITLE: Machine Helper
REPORTS TO: CONVERTING SUPERVISOR
Job Type: Full-time
Shifts: 1st Shift: 7AM - 3 PM 2nd Shift: 3 PM - 11 PM 3rd Shift: 11PM - 7AM
Wages: $19.80 hourly and up based on shift.
SUMMARY
Responsible for all activities associated with running the converting machines including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Set-up rails, print, and die cut section on converting machine accurately in accordance with proper setup techniques.
  • Inspect all dies before and after run to ensure that any necessary repairs are made before the next run.
  • Ensure all bolts for cutting dies are in place and tightly secured.
  • Monitor box quality, including, but not limited to, loose liner, warp, correct size, and print.
  • Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed.
  • Train and assist First Helper, Flexo Stacker, and Bundlers with job duties on the machine.
  • Cross-train on other machines.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data.
  • Turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
  • Switch duties with other operators as necessary.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Read and follow instructions on factory masters.
  • Take correct printing dies to press department machines.
  • Pick up all printing dies from press department machines and return to die room after order is complete.
  • Wash all dirty printing dies, remove tape, and band type.
  • Inspect all incoming dies for any necessary repairs. Glue and seal loose dies returned from machines.
  • Replace printing dies in proper sequence on printing die rack.
  • Assist Die Mounter in pulling load tags.
  • Sort and file load tags.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data.
  • Turn in work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
  • Adheres to production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality and service goals. Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Supervisor.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Additional duties may be assigned by management.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or GED.
Solid prior work history
Good references
LANGUAGE SKILLS - Able to read, speak, and follow instructions on factory masters.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS - Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, measurement, volume and rate. Able to apply concepts of high school math.
REASONING ABILITY - Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.
TECHNICAL SKILLS - The individual must have a working knowledge of the following:
  • Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation.
  • Product layouts and production specifications.
  • Product quality specifications.
  • Quality standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS - While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT - While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
Don't miss this opportunity and apply and send your resume today!
Pratt is America's 4th largest corrugated packaging company and the world's largest, privately-held producer of 100% recycled containerboard, with more than 9000 highly-skilled, green-collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability.

What Pratt Industries employees say

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