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Operator Helper Jobs in Moses Lake, WA (NOW HIRING)

Lkqcorp

Loader Operator

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Help ensure compliance with all federal, state and local regulations. Support dismantling and yard ... Equipment operated may include awheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, backhoe, forklift, etc.

Wood

Water Treatment Operator

Othello, WA · On-site

... helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www ...

Wood Plc

Water Treatment Operator

Othello, WA

... helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www ...

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All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in Moses Lake, WA

Operator Helper information

See Moses Lake, WA salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Moses Lake, WA is $18.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.05 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 Moses Lake, WA? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Moses Lake, WA are:
What cities near Moses Lake, WA are hiring for Operator Helper jobs? Cities near Moses Lake, WA with the most Operator Helper job openings:
Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Moses Lake, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,035 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Loader Operator

Lkqcorp

Moses Lake, WA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Join the LKQ Family! We're looking for motivated individuals to join our team at LKQ Corporation. With opportunities for growth, competitive benefits, and a supportive work environment, LKQ is the place to be. Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career!Fresh facility, fresh opportunities - drive your career with LKQ
Pay Rate $22-$25hr DOE
Operate equipment safely and responsibly to move salvage vehicles through all phases of the operation, maintain facility grounds and perform snow removal. Help ensure compliance with all federal, state and local regulations. Support dismantling and yard operations. Use scan gun and tablet/phone to update the inventory system on the location of vehicles. Help ensure fulfillment of daily work orders. Communicate written and verbally with management and other team members. Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Essential Job Duties

  • Perform pre-operational inspections to ensure equipment is safe for work.
  • Operate equipment safely and courteously in work areas with pedestrians and other vehicle traffic. Equipment operated may include awheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, backhoe, forklift, etc...
  • Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any findings and equipment hours to management.
  • Prioritize and plan workload to prevent delays to operations.
  • Use long and short auto salvage forks on thewheel loader to unload car haulers and stage upcoming cars for inventory, dismantling and cuts.
  • Use bucket to remove snow, spread stone and maintain grounds such as access roads, water drainage, vehicle holding areas and salvage yard.
  • Assist with regulation compliance and quality assurance of dismantled vehicles before unloading from bay and placing in the salvage yard.
  • Load dismantle bays with unprocessed cars. Process and crush vehicles that have reached their useful life and load onto scrap haulers for final disposal.
  • Assist with safety and regulation compliance for thefacility in general. Maintain location accuracy and integrity of vehicles placed in the yard.
  • Perform tasks assigned by dispatch which may include: location checks, part checks, part pulls, etc. Communicate delays and problems promptly with management and affected coworkers.
  • Assume other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • Not responsible for supervising employees.

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience

  • 1+ years of experience.
  • Must have heavy equipment operations experience and some automotive background.
  • Must possess basic technology competence (scan gun, tablet/phone applications).
  • Must have good oral and written communication skills.
  • Must possess the ability to stay calm, cool and collected in a high-pressure fast-paced work environment.
  • Must be a smooth operator and work well with others.

Preferred Requirements

  • High School Diploma/GED.
  • Previous heavy equipment operation, some computer skills, general maintenance and understanding of mechanical equipment.
  • understanding of automotive components and disassembly.
  • Experience in rigging/lifting operations a plus.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

  • Basic computer skills.

  • Basic messages communicated orally. May write brief messages and keep simple records.

  • Problems encountered are routine, somewhat repetitive and generally solved by following clear directions and procedures.

  • Decisions generally affect own job or assigned functional area.

  • Results are defined; sets personal own goals and determines how to achieve results with few or no guidelines to follow; supervisor/manager provides broad guidance and overall direction.

  • Handle multiple tasks or projects simultaneously with moderate complexity.

Essential Physical Demands/Work Environment

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, push, pull, squat, bend, reach, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or sit for extended periods.
  • The employee may be exposed to hazardous situations, conditions, and equipment. Must be able to work in cramped spaces or underneath vehicles that may require getting into awkward positions. May regularly wear personal protective equipment (PPE). May be exposed to extreme temperatures and high noise levels.
  • Travel may be required periodically, including overnight stays (contingent on position requirements).
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds.

Benefits:

  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance

  • Paid Time Off

  • Paid Parental Leave

  • Fertility Coverage

  • 401k with Generous Company Match

  • Company Paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability

  • Short-Term Disability

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Employee Discounts

  • PNC Daily Pay Option

Join us for an exciting career journey with positive, driven individuals.

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