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Operator Helper Jobs in Shelton, WA (NOW HIRING)

American Workforce Group

Shop Helper

Tumwater, WA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter Wanted! Do you have strong metalwork experience, a steady ... Proven, verifiable experience operating oxy-torches and industrial plasma cutters required. * Solid ...

American Workforce Group, Inc.

Shop Helper

Tumwater, WA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter Wanted! Do you have strong metalwork experience, a steady ... Proven, verifiable experience operating oxy-torches and industrial plasma cutters required. * Solid ...

RailWorks

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Olympia, WA

$25 - $35/hr

Job ID: 19959 Benefits Offering RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives ... Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed.This position ...

Accurate Inc

Forklift Operator

Lacey, WA · On-site

$17.13/hr

FORKLIFT OPERATOR IN LACEY, WA Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Forklift Operator to ... Accurate Personnel is here to help! As an industry-leading full-service staffing agency, we have ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Forklift Operator

Lacey, WA

$17.13/hr

FORKLIFT OPERATOR IN LACEY, WA Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Forklift Operator to ... Accurate Personnel is here to help! As an industry-leading full-service staffing agency, we have ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Reach Truck Operator

Lacey, WA

$20.13/hr

REACH TRUCK OPERATOR IN LACEY, WA Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Reach Truck ... Accurate Personnel is here to help! As an industry-leading full-service staffing agency, we have ...

Accurate Inc

Reach Truck Operator

Lacey, WA · On-site

$20.13/hr

REACH TRUCK OPERATOR IN LACEY, WA Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Reach Truck ... Accurate Personnel is here to help! As an industry-leading full-service staffing agency, we have ...

Market Express LLC

CDL A Owner Operator

Tumwater, WA

$5.8K/wk

Market Express is looking for experienced CDL-A OTR Owner Operators who want consistentfreight, strong revenue, and the freedom to focus on driving while we help support the rest. Why Make the Switch?

Market Express LLC

CDL A Owner Operator

Olympia, WA

$5.8K/wk

Market Express is looking for experienced CDL-A OTR Owner Operators who want consistentfreight, strong revenue, and the freedom to focus on driving while we help support the rest. Why Make the Switch?

Market Express LLC

CDL A Owner Operator

Dupont, WA

$5.8K/wk

Market Express is looking for experienced CDL-A OTR Owner Operators who want consistentfreight, strong revenue, and the freedom to focus on driving while we help support the rest. Why Make the Switch?

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in Shelton, WA

Operator Helper information

See Shelton, WA salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Shelton, WA is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $19.86 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 Shelton, WA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Shelton, WA are:

What cities near Shelton, WA are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities near Shelton, WA with the most Operator Helper job openings:

Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Shelton, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,695 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Shop Helper

American Workforce Group

Tumwater, WA • On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Precision, Heat, and Steel: Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter Wanted!

Do you have strong metalwork experience, a steady hand with a torch, and great grinding skills? American Workforce Group has partnered with a top-tier metal manufacturer in Tumwater, WA to hire a full-time Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter. Take advantage of a dependable Monday-Friday day shift schedule, updated premium hourly wages, and an excellent path to permanent hire!


Description for Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter:
  • Operate automated burn tables, oxy-torches, and plasma cutters to accurately shape heavy steel.
  • Utilize angle grinders and deburring tools to clean edges, smooth slag, and finish completed parts.
  • Take ownership of meticulous tool cleaning, machinery care, and general packaging line maintenance.
  • Manage incoming material paperwork, verify product inventory numbers, and handle loading/unloading lines.
  • Support structural welding and assembly teams to maintain a safe, efficient, and clean shop environment.

Details for Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter:
  • Pay Range: $20.00 – $21.00 / hour.
  • Schedule: Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Day Shift).
  • Location: Tumwater, WA area.

Requirements for Shop Helper / Table Burner & Metal Cutter:
  • Proven, verifiable experience operating oxy-torches and industrial plasma cutters required.
  • Solid, hands-on experience utilizing electric angle grinders and metal finishing tools.
  • Strong baseline background working within a high-volume manufacturing or fabrication shop environment.
  • Prior forklift certification or basic welding layout knowledge is a strong plus.
  • Exceptional personal attendance habits, strong work ethic, and a safety-first mindset.


To apply:

Email: piercejobs@americanworkforcegroup.com

Call: (253) 650-8800


Office Hours: Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

American Workforce Group, "Built on Relationships, Backed by Integrity"