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Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Garney Construction

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

As a Backfill Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Backfill ...

Garney Construction

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING * Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew

Branch 20

Be Seen First

Machine Operator/Reach Truck Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Job Summary We are seeking dependable Machine Operator/Reach Truck Operator to work in a fast-paced warehouse and production environment. Depending on the position and experience, employees may work ...

Garney Construction

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

As a Backfill Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Backfill ...

WPS Inc

Forklift Operator

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$24.30/hr

Forklift Operator Opportunities Wood Personnel Services is hiring Forklift Operators for multiple opportunities throughout Middle Tennessee. We are currently partnering with several established ...

A. O. Smith Corporation

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Primary Function Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes Responsibilities * Complete training and perform ...

A.O. Smith

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Primary Function Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes Responsibilities * Complete training and perform ...

A. O. Smith Corporation

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Primary Function Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes Responsibilities * Complete training and perform ...

A.O. Smith

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Primary Function Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes Responsibilities * Complete training and perform ...

A. O. Smith Corporation

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Primary Function Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes Responsibilities * Complete training and perform ...

Talos Engineered Products LLC

Machine Operator

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

About the Role A Talos Machine Operator plays a crucial role in the manufacturing process, ensuring that equipment and machinery operate smoothly, and the product meets quality standards for our ...

Talos Engineered Products LLC

Machine Operator

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

About the Role A Talos Machine Operator plays a crucial role in the manufacturing process, ensuring that equipment and machinery operate smoothly, and the product meets quality standards for our ...

MJ Morgan Group

Lathe Operator

Antioch, TN

$17 - $18/hr

Lathe Operator Location: Antioch, TN Shift : 3rd (9:00PM-5:30AM) Pay :$17--$18 Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled and dependable Lathe Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have ...

WPS Inc

Forklift Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$24.20/hr

Forklift Operator Wood Personnel Services is seeking experienced Forklift Operators for leading manufacturing and distribution facilities in Lebanon, and the surrounding Wilson County area. If you ...

NCW

Forklift Operator

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$19.50/hr

Forklift Operator Position Summary We are seeking a reliable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to join our team in Lebanon, TN. In this role, you will safely transport materials throughout the ...

A. O. Smith Corporation

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Primary Function Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes Responsibilities * Complete training and perform ...

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Operator

Milan, TN · On-site

$37K - $50K/yr

A minimum 1 year experience operating and a thorough knowledge of the capabilities, limitations, and safety features of the respective equipment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here ...

Southern Spear Ironworks

Crane Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

The Crane Operator is responsible for operating a mobile crane to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. The Operator controls crane functions by depressing buttons and foot pedals as well as ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Jobs in Tennessee

Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator in Tennessee is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator?

Operators are professionals who control and monitor machinery, equipment, or production processes in various industries, such as manufacturing, utilities, and transportation. Their main responsibilities include ensuring the smooth operation of machines, conducting regular inspections, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining safety standards. Operators may work with highly specialized machinery or more general equipment, depending on the industry. They play a crucial role in keeping production lines running efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator?

To thrive as an Operator, strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent are typically required. Familiarity with machinery, control systems, and safety protocols, as well as certifications such as OSHA or equipment-specific licenses, are often necessary. Dependability, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help Operators excel in dynamic and safety-conscious environments. These skills ensure efficient, safe operations and minimize downtime in manufacturing or industrial settings.

What is the difference between Operator vs Technician?

AspectOperatorTechnician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, factories, or industrial sitesMaintenance workshops, repair facilities, or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, production, and industrial sectorsMaintenance, repair, and technical support roles in similar industries
Common Search & ComparisonOften searched with similar operational rolesCompared for technical skills and troubleshooting abilities

In summary, Operators primarily focus on running machinery and ensuring production processes run smoothly, often with minimal technical training. Technicians, on the other hand, typically have more technical skills, perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs. Both roles are essential in industrial settings but differ in their responsibilities and required credentials.

More about Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Operator jobs in TN?

For Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,882 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN • On-site

Garney Construction
Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Garney Constructionexternal

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Garney Construction rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

GARNEY
A Backfill Operator position is available through Garney. To be considered for this position you must have previous construction experience. As a Backfill Operator, you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Backfill Operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
  • Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid
  • Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew
  • Perform operator level maintenance on the machine
  • Move the trench boxes from the ditch

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
  • 2-5 years in construction experience
  • Utility work experience preferred
  • Firm Knowledge of equipment operations and maintenance
  • Must be willing to work overtime and travel

LET'S TALK THE PERKS!
  • Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
  • Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
  • Shares of company stock at no cost starting your first day
  • 401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
  • Student loan resources
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Paid time off
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
  • Free life insurance and disability policy
  • Free access to healthcare coordinators
  • Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
  • Access to consultations with legal and financial professionals at no cost
  • Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
  • 50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store

CONTACT US
If you are interested in the Backfill Operatorposition, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visit careers.garney.com.
If you have questions or would like more information, please contact: Alondra Dominguez at 615-266-6156 or by email alondra.dominguez@garney.com and include the job title and location to ensure a prompt response. Please complete an application if you are interested in the position. All openings listed are currently accepting candidates.
Garney and its subsidiaries are committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Garney is a background screening, drug-free workplace. You may be required to complete a post-offer physical and a site-specific background check for this position.
Agency Disclaimer: All vendors must have a signed Garney Agreement, authorized by the Executive Team, to receive payment for any placement. Verbal or written commitments made by anyone other than a member of the Executive Team will not be considered binding. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Garney or submitted to employees outside of the Recruiting Team will be deemed the property of Garney. In such cases, Garney will not be obligated to pay any placement fees.
THE BENEFITS OF WORKING AT GARNEY
Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
Shares of company stock at no cost starting your first day
401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
Student loan resources
Weekly paychecks
Paid time off
8 paid holidays
Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
Free life insurance & disability policy
Free access to healthcare coordinators
Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
Access to consultations with legal/financial professionals at no cost
Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store
BUILDING SUSTAINABLE FUTURES WITH THE WORLD'S MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCES-WATER AND PEOPLE.™
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Right to work
This organization participates in E-verify

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