ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operator Helper Jobs in Austin, MN (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$20.75/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator As a Machine Operator, you will operate machines that convert ... Train and assist Machine Helpers, and Production employees as needed * Cross-train on other ...

Apple Valley Foods, US - Inc.

Forklift Operator

Austin, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Forklift Operator ID:1055 Location:Austin, MN Department:Operations More about this job ... time to help set up for following shift; * Inspect Warehouse equipment for safety before use;

Apple Valley Foods

Forklift Operator

Austin, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Forklift Operator ID: 1055 Location: Austin, MN Department: Operations More about this job ... time to help set up for following shift; * Inspect Warehouse equipment for safety before use;

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$20.75/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator As a Machine Operator, you will operate machines that convert ... Train and assist Machine Helpers, and Production employees as needed * Cross-train on other ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$20.75/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator As a Machine Operator, you will operate machines that convert ... Train and assist Machine Helpers, and Production employees as needed * Cross-train on other ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Hayfield, MN Full Time Entry Level Share ( POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Hayfield, MN Full Time Entry Level Share ( POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

Geotek LLC

Machine Operator

Stewartville, MN · On-site

$22.50 - $28.50/hr

The Operator will also help in any other areas of the department and/or manufacturing plant, as needed. Available Shift(s): * Nights | Monday-Thursday | 4:00PM-2:30AM * $3.00/hour shift differential ...

Apple Valley Foods- US

Forklift Operator

Austin, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview The Warehouse Forklift Operator is responsible for the removal of product lines while ... time to help set up for following shift; * Inspect Warehouse equipment for safety before use;

Apple Valley Foods- US

Forklift Operator

Austin, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview The Warehouse Forklift Operator is responsible for the removal of product lines while ... time to help set up for following shift; * Inspect Warehouse equipment for safety before use;

Return

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

Return

Equipment Operator

Kasson, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

Return

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

Return

Equipment Operator

Kasson, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with ...

Grain Millers St. Ansgar

Mill or Packaging Operator

IA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

When you join us, you're not just operating equipment-you're helping create ingredients that feed millions of people worldwide. Who We Are Grain Millers, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in Austin, MN

Operator Helper information

See Austin, MN salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Austin, MN is $17.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $18.70 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 cities near Austin, MN are hiring for Operator Helper jobs? Cities near Austin, MN with the most Operator Helper job openings:
Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Austin, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,454 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Machine Operator

Pratt Industries

Albert Lea, MN • On-site

$20.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

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

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator

As a Machine Operator, you will operate machines that convert corrugated board into boxes for both major and local brands. This role involves safely managing production machines, including setup, operation, and cleanup, as well as recommending improvements to meet customer demand.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Work safely at all times and comply with Pratt Industries' safety rules and operating procedures
  • Follow Good Manufacturing Processes (GMPs)
  • Learn and comply with quality procedures to prevent poor quality products from leaving the facility
  • Maximize equipment utilization by operating machinery at capacity and speed; improve setup times and minimize downtime
  • Maintain cleanliness and safety in work areas; perform end-of-shift cleaning
  • Understand machine capabilities and drive efficiencies without sacrificing quality or safety initiatives.
  • Train and assist Machine Helpers, and Production employees as needed
  • Cross-train on other machines and positions within the plant
  • Complete necessary reports accurately and timely (e.g., Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data)
  • Submit maintenance requests for needed repairs and proactively maintain equipment
  • Collaborate with co-workers and learn various job duties for plant growth and personal development
  • Adhere to production schedules and recommend optimizations to meet goals

Physical Demands:

  • Regularly required to stand, walk, talk, and hear
  • Frequently required to use hands for handling, reaching, and feeling
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Occasionally required to sit
  • Must regularly lift/move up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds
  • Specific vision abilities include close, distance, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

Mathematical Skills:

  • Able to read a tape measure accurately and apply concepts of high school math

Reasoning Ability:

  • Ability to apply common sense to carry out instructions in written, oral, or graphic form

Work Environment:

  • Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts
  • Frequently exposed to wet, hot, and/or humid conditions
  • Occasionally exposed to high places, fumes, airborne particles, and vibration
  • Noise level is usually loud

Unpack Your Potential and Grow with Us at Pratt Industries!

At Pratt Industries, we're not just offering a job - we're providing the tools and support for you to thrive. Here's what you can expect when you join our team:

Comprehensive Insurance Benefits

  • Insurance coverage (if elected) begins on the 1st of the next month following your start date.

Wellness Reimbursement Program

  • Stay healthy, stay happy! Get reimbursed up to $500 annually for wellness-related activities.

Paid Holidays from Day One

  • Enjoy paid holidays starting immediately. We value your time off!

Retirement Planning with 401(k) Match

  • Start building your future with a 401(k) plan, and enjoy a company match after just 3 months of employment.

Vacation time:

  • Take time to recharge with paid vacation days after just 6 months of service.

Tuition Reimbursement

  • Ready to learn and grow? Get tuition reimbursement after 12 months with us to help advance your education and career.

Paid Childbearing and Parenting Leave

We support your growing family! Take paid childbearing and parenting leave after 12 months of service.

Wage and Salary

  • Pay is based off of experience or $20.75 to start.

Hourly production machine operator positions for 3rd shift.

What Pratt Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply