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Operator Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Location: 1440 Airport Rd Gallatin, TN Pay Rate: $21.12 Shift: 3rd (11pm-7am, starting Sunday night) Principle Accountabilities: Work as part of a team in support of a manufacturing operation with a ...

New

Helper Operator 1

Roxboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Must have 1-12 months of experience working as an industrial Helper. * Must be able to follow ... operating engine lathes, grinders and files. * Assist with unloading, inspecting and moving ...

Helper Operator 1

Roxboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Must have 1-12 months of experience working as an industrial Helper. * Must be able to follow ... operating engine lathes, grinders and files. * Assist with unloading, inspecting and moving ...

$26.79/hr

This position assists the fire dozer operator with initial attack, fire, and fuels management activities. The helper assists in support of other natural resource projects. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ...

Machine Operator

Medley, FL · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

At least three years of experience as machine operator helper. Skills * Operation Monitoring * Active Listening * Critical Thinking * Operation and Control * Quality Control Analysis * Monitoring

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Operator Helper information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in the United States is $18.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $19.23 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.

More about Operator Helper jobs

What cities are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities with the most Operator Helper job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Operator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

The top employers for Operator Helper jobs are:

What states have the most Operator Helper jobs?

States with the most job openings for Operator Helper jobs include:

Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,438 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Operator Helper, 3rd Shift

pca

Gallatin, TN

$21.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Location: 1440 Airport Rd Gallatin, TN

Pay Rate: $21.12

Shift: 3rd (11pm-7am, starting Sunday night)

Principle Accountabilities: 

Work as part of a team in support of a manufacturing operation with a goal of increasing productivity; decreasing downtime and waste.

Assume active role in overall plant and facilities-related work.

Position requires assisting all jobs on the plant floor.

Follow all company safety rules and lock-out tag-out procedures.

Maintain shop and shop equipment per 5S Standards.

Other duties as assigned.

May be required to stack parts up to 30 lbs.for a period of up to 12 hours.

Basic Qualifications: 

High School Graduate or GED.

Be passionate about maintaining a safe work environment.

Must be able to work overtime and weekends as needed.

Must be willing to work the first and third shift.

Must have a good attendance record.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a packaging or other manufacturing environment is preferred.

Possess an understanding that temperatures and volumes of work may vary.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Must be willing to work closely on a day-to-day basis with other production personnel.

Ability to share ideas with others to solve problems of essential importance.

Excellent communication skills.

Thrive in a cross-functional team environment.

Work with a sense of urgency to reduce downtime of machines.

Strong verbal communication skills.

Ability to work in a fast paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.


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