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Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

A.O. Smith

Operator-Direct

Franklin, TN

$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

$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 ...

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 ...

MI Metals Inc

Forklift Operator

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$21.50/hr

MI Metals is seeking a Forklift Operator to support the efficient operation of the production floor by assisting the extrusion department. Under the supervision of the Extrusion Manager, this ...

MJ Morgan Group

Lathe Operator

Antioch, TN · On-site

$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 ...

MI Metals Inc

Forklift Operator

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

MI Metals is seeking a Forklift Operator to support the efficient operation of the production floor by assisting the extrusion department. Under the supervision of the Extrusion Manager, this ...

Wise Staffing Group

Machine Operator

Rockford, TN · On-site

$16/hr

Machine Operator - $16/hour Responsibilities: * Metal Tubing Production: * Operate machinery to produce metal tubing according to specifications. * Machine Operation: * Operate press machines to ...

Holland Sharpe

Stacking Operator

La Vergne, TN

$20.50 - $21.50/hr

Holland Sharpe is looking to add a stacking operator to our high productive fast growing team! This position comes with a growth potential and a great career opportunity. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Operate ...

Wise Staffing Group

Machine Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15/hr

Extrusion Machine Operator Salary: $15 per hour Schedule: Swing shifts, 3 or 4 days a week: Day Shift: 7:00 am to 7:15 pm Night Shift: 7:00 pm to 7:15 am We are seeking a skilled Extrusion Machine ...

MI Metals Inc

Forklift Operator

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

MI Metals is seeking a Forklift Operator to support the efficient operation of the production floor by assisting the extrusion department. Under the supervision of the Extrusion Manager, this ...

WPS Inc

Forklift Operator

Nashville, TN

$20/hr

Forklift Operator Pay and Perks: * Up to $20 an hour * Overtime opportunities * All shifts available * Full-Time Benefits Offered by WPS: * Paid holidays * Paid vacation days * Medical, dental, and ...

Mi Metals Inc

Forklift Operator

Smyrna, TN

$21.50/hr

MI Metals is seeking a Forklift Operator to support the efficient operation of the production floor by assisting the extrusion department. Under the supervision of the Extrusion Manager, this ...

K-1 Speed Inc

Track Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

WPS Inc

Forklift Operator

Portland, TN

$21/hr

Forklift Operator Wood Personnel is in partnership with a large distribution center located in Portland, TN who is currently hiring for Forklift Operators. Start your next career move today. Forklift ...

New

Hankook & Company ES America

Machine Operator

Carthage, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

MACHINE OPERATORS Hankook & Company Battery Manufacturing We are seeking dependable, safety-focused Machine Operators to join our team across all shifts . If you are motivated, detail-oriented, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 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 are some common challenges faced by Operators in a manufacturing environment and how can they be addressed?

Operators in manufacturing often face challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine downtime, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To address these issues, operators must stay vigilant with regular equipment checks, promptly report malfunctions, and follow established standard operating procedures. Continuous training and collaboration with maintenance and quality teams also help operators quickly resolve issues and improve overall efficiency.

What are Operators?

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 jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

For an operator, high-paying roles such as industrial or heavy equipment operators can reach $5,000 weekly with extensive experience and specialized skills. Other high-earning jobs without a degree include commercial pilots, certain sales positions, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, often requiring certifications or apprenticeships. These roles typically involve physically demanding work, shift work, or operating complex machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operator, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying operator roles, such as specialized industrial or construction operators, can sometimes pay around $2,000 per day, especially for those with extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-risk environments. These positions often require advanced skills, safety training, and the ability to operate complex machinery or equipment in demanding settings.

What is the job of an operator?

An operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring machinery, equipment, or systems in various industries such as manufacturing, transportation, or utilities. They perform tasks like starting, stopping, adjusting, and troubleshooting equipment, often requiring technical skills and safety training. Operators ensure smooth operation and maintain safety standards in their work environment.

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.

What Is the Job Description for an Operator?

There are many kinds of operators, but generally, the duties for this position entail working with various types of machinery to produce goods and make repairs when necessary. On-the-job training is very common. Aside from a high school degree or GED certificate, there are not many educational requirements, unless you are looking for an advanced position. However, many employers expect you to have completed an apprenticeship, which is the best way to gain experience and hone the necessary skills. The ability to focus closely on your work is critical while operating hazardous equipment. Other qualifications include hand-eye coordination, a steady hand, and mechanical aptitude.

What operator makes the most money?

In the operator job field, specialized roles such as nuclear power plant operators, airline pilots, and certain heavy equipment operators tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and sometimes additional training or licensing. Salary levels can vary based on industry, location, and level of responsibility.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,882 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Operator-Direct

Operator-Direct

A.O. Smith

Franklin, TN

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

A. O. Smith rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

250th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Company / Location Information

A.O. Smith is a global leader applying innovative technologies and energy-efficient solutions to products manufactured and marketed worldwide. The company is one of the world's leading manufacturers of residential and commercial water heating equipment and boilers, as well as a manufacturer of water treatment products for residential and light commercial applications. A. O. Smith is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with approximately 12,000 employees at operations in the United States, Canada, China, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

Primary Function

Operator will initiate operations in accordance with customer requirements and monitor performance to optimize production processes

Responsibilities
  1. Complete training and perform operator functions in accordance with required work instructions for the position. 
  2. Must be able to read, understand and run the production schedule
  3. Must be able to work with automated machinery and have the ability to perform troubleshooting tasks in order to increase machine up time.
  4. Must be willing to learn multiple operations and work in different areas as needed.
  5. Must be capable of walking and/or standing for the entire shift
  6. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  7. Must be able to perform other duties as assigned
     
Qualifications
  • Basic computer knowledge.
Education
High School Diploma or GED
Physical Requirements
  • Prolonged periods of sitting/standing and frequent bending and reaching.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds, and with assistance
We Offer

Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefit plans which include medical and dental insurance, company-sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short- and long-term disability programs and tuition assistance.

ADA Statement & EEO Statement

In developing this job description care was taken to include all competencies needed to successfully perform in this position. However, for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) purposes, the essential functions of the job may or may not have been described for purposes of ADA reasonable accommodation. All reasonable accommodation requests will be reviewed and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity and expression, marital or military status. We also provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local law.

What A. O. Smith employees say

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