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Operator Helper Jobs in Portage, MI (NOW HIRING)

Advatix, Inc.

Die Cutting Operator

Sturgis, MI · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Die Cutting Operator Job Title: Die Cutting Operator Location: Sturgis, Michigan Status: Full-Time ... Support blanking processes that help convert printed sheets into foldable cartons efficiently and ...

Advatix, Inc.

Die Cutting Operator

Sturgis, MI · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Die Cutting Operator Job Title: Die Cutting Operator Location: Sturgis, Michigan Status: Full-Time ... Support blanking processes that help convert printed sheets into foldable cartons efficiently and ...

Magna

Operator, Production

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and ...

Magna

Operator, Production

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and ...

Kelly Services

Assembly Operator

Portage, MI

$18/hr

Helping you discover what's next in your career is what we're all about, so let's get to work. Apply to be Assembly Worker today! As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with ...

AtWork Personnel Kalamazoo

Be Seen First

Machine Operator- Injection Molding

Vicksburg, MI · On-site

$16 - $17.50/hr

We are seeking Machine Operators to join our growing team with openings on all shifts! You have the ... We help place talented individuals in an array of fields, including administrative, light ...

Landscape Forms

1st Shift Forklift Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$17/hr

As a member of our team, you'll help create industry-leading site furnishings and outdoor solutions ... operating a variety of vehicles, loading, unloading, receiving, stocking, picking, and shipping ...

Schupan

CNC Operator 1

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

CNC OPERATOR -- 2ND SHIFT Davis Creek Kalamazoo, MI Full-Time Mon-Thu, 3:30 PM-2:00 AM Overtime as ... You will operate CNC equipment, inspect finished parts, and help maintain the quality standards our ...

SCHUPAN & SONS INC

CNC Operator 1

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

CNC OPERATOR -- 2ND SHIFT Davis Creek | Kalamazoo, MI | Full-Time | Mon-Thu, 3:30 PM-2:00 AM ... You will operate CNC equipment, inspect finished parts, and help maintain the quality standards our ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in Portage, MI

Operator Helper information

See Portage, MI salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Portage, MI is $16.90, 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 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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Portage, MI?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Portage, MI are:

What cities near Portage, MI are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities near Portage, MI with the most Operator Helper job openings:

Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Portage, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,151 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Die Cutting Operator

Advatix, Inc.

Sturgis, MI • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Die Cutting Operator
Job Title: Die Cutting Operator
Location: Sturgis, Michigan
Status: Full-Time
HRforGrowth® is engaged as the talent acquisition partner to conduct this search on behalf of a client organization that is hiring for this role. HRforGrowth is not the employer for this position. HRforGrowth identifies, evaluates, and presents top-tier candidates through its global talent acquisition practice; all employment decisions — including final selection, offer terms, compensation, and conditions of employment — are made solely by the hiring organization.
Position Summary
The Die Cutting Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring die-cutting equipment used to convert printed sheets into accurate, high-quality folding cartons and related packaging components. This role supports production efficiency, material yield, and quality by ensuring cut, crease, blanking, and stripping operations meet customer specifications, internal quality standards, and production schedules.
Key Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate die-cutting equipment to process printed sheets into folding cartons and other specialty packaging components
  • Read and interpret job tickets, production specifications, layouts, and tooling requirements to confirm proper setup, stock orientation, and finished dimensions
  • Install and adjust dies, stripping units, blanking tools, and related machine components to achieve clean cuts, accurate creases, and consistent registration
  • Monitor machine performance throughout production runs and make adjustments to pressure, alignment, feed, and delivery settings to maintain output quality
  • Inspect finished work for defects such as incomplete cuts, poor stripping, cracking, scuffing, misalignment, and dimensional inaccuracies
  • Support blanking processes that help convert printed sheets into foldable cartons efficiently and reduce manual stripping time.
  • Work with in-house tooling and production support teams to verify die readiness, troubleshoot tooling concerns, and maintain efficient changeovers.​
  • Perform line clearance, setup verification, and in-process quality checks in accordance with company procedures and customer requirements
  • Maintain accurate production records, downtime logs, scrap reporting, and job completion documentation
  • Complete routine machine cleaning, lubrication, preventive maintenance checks, and minor troubleshooting to reduce downtime and support safe operation
  • Coordinate with press, finishing, quality, and supervisory teams to resolve production issues and keep work flowing through the plant
  • Follow all safety, housekeeping, quality, and standard operating procedures in the manufacturing environment
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience operating die-cutting, converting, or related packaging equipment in a printing or manufacturing environment preferred
  • Ability to read job jackets, production orders, measurements, and technical specifications accurately
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform setups, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting on converting equipment
  • Understanding of folding carton production, sheet handling, die-cutting tolerances, and quality inspection practices
  • Ability to use measuring tools and conduct visual quality inspections with strong attention to detail
  • Ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks, and lift materials or tooling as needed
  • Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and weekends based on production demands​​​​​
  • Experience operating blanking die-cutters in a folding carton or specialty packaging environment
  • Familiarity with in-house die tooling workflows, Gerber CAD/CAM-supported tooling environments, or related converting operations
  • Experience in regulated manufacturing environments with ISO 9001:2015, CGMP, or similarly controlled quality systems
  • Prior experience working with packaging for healthcare, consumer, or premium branded products is a plus
About HRforGrowth:
HRforGrowth is a full-service HR and talent partner built to support companies that are scaling, transforming, or navigating change. HRFG is globally recognized for delivering quality, speed, and cost-effective talent solutions across every level of the workforce. Through its global talent acquisition practice, HRforGrowth applies world class rigor and precision to identifying exceptional professional and executive talent on behalf of its clients — from temporary staffing to permanent hourly workers through to placing C-suite executives. HRforGrowth is presenting this opportunity in its capacity as the retained search partner and does not serve as the employer of record for this position.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
In its recruiting and search practices, HRforGrowth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity, and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals. HRforGrowth evaluates and presents candidates to its clients without regard to any protected characteristic.
HRforGrowth endeavors to advise the hiring organization to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws — including those enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) — in its hiring decisions, terms of employment, and workplace practices.
 

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