ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Road & Rail Services

Transfer Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$18/hr

Transfer Operator Location: Chattanooga, TN Pay: $18.00/hour Schedule: Day Shift | Full-Time Bonus: Quarterly Safety Bonus Join a Growing Team That Keeps Supply Chains Moving Road & Rail Services ...

New

Road & Rail Services

Transfer Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$18/hr

Transfer Operator Location: Chattanooga, TN Pay: $18.00/hour Schedule: Day Shift | Full-Time Bonus: Quarterly Safety Bonus Join a Growing Team That Keeps Supply Chains Moving Road & Rail Services ...

New

WPS Inc

Forklift Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18/hr

Experienced Forklift Operators Wanted Wood Personnel is currently hiring experienced forklift operators for multiple manufacturing and distribution facilities in the Nashville, La Vergne, and Mt.

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 ...

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Screed Operator

Gallatin, TN · On-site

Operator must bring any exceptions to the attention of the foreman. The ability to set the screed on the asphalt paver at the beginning of each operation; adjust the screed according to the asphalt ...

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

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

Forklift Operator 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 ...

American Iron & Metal

Crane Operator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

We're looking for a Crane Operator to join our yard at our Erie, PA location. ** What you're responsible for: ** * You will safely operating a crane to lift, move, and position metal materials within ...

New

WPS Inc

Forklift Operator

Portland, TN · On-site

$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 ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Memphis, TN

$20.35/hr

Second (2nd) Shift Forklift Operator Shift: 5:00pm-3:30am, Monday-Thursday. Overtime required based on business needs Pay: $20.35 per hour Shift differential: $1.00 Required Qualifications: A minimum ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20.35/hr

First (1st) Shift Forklift Operator Shift: 5:00am-3:30pm, Monday-Thursday. Overtime required based on business needs Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20.35/hr

Position: Weekend Day (1st) Shift Forklift Operator Shift: 6:00am-6:30pm, Friday-Sunday. Overtime required based on business needs Pay: $20.35 per hour Shift differential: $2.00 Required ...

EAGLE DISTRIBUTING OF MEMPHIS LLC

Forklift Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Forklift Operator Memphis - Memphis, TN 38106 Overview Level Entry Description The Forklift Operator will be responsible for loading, put-a-ways, replenishing, rotation and unloading products. Stack ...

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 ...

next page

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 Jul 16, 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's job salary?

An operator's salary varies depending on the industry, location, and experience, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 annually. Skilled operators who work with specialized equipment or hold certifications may earn higher wages and additional benefits. Salary can also be influenced by shift work, union membership, and company size.

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 pay $700 a day?

Operator jobs that can pay $700 a day typically include specialized roles such as heavy equipment operators, crane operators, or industrial machinery operators, often requiring certifications and experience. These positions are usually found in construction, manufacturing, or energy sectors and may involve overtime or shift work to reach higher daily earnings.

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 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 may use tools like control panels or computer systems to perform their duties.

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 and airline pilots tend to have the highest salaries due to the technical skills and certifications required. These positions often require extensive training, licensing, and experience, which contribute to their higher earning potential compared to other operator roles.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,882 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Crane Operator

Southern Spear Ironworks

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$26 - $40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description Summary:
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 manipulating levers. The Operator will be required to unload crane accessories from trailers or support vehicles. The Operator receives direction from riggers and/or site supervision via verbal or hand signals to determine required load movement. The Operator must also have a CDL Class B license and will be required to perform pre-and post-trip inspections along with daily and monthly equipment inspections. Operators also follow appropriate safety procedures and maintain logs of vehicle repair status and working hours (FMCSA). The operator typically works under the direct supervision and is expected to work long hours with frequent sitting, standing, moving, and climbing. The Operator is subject to possible exposure to extreme year-round outdoor environmental conditions and may also be subject to working weekends and holidays.
Responsibilities
  • Operates various types of cranes: All Terrain, Rough Terrain, Crawlers, Industrial, Hydraulic Trucks, Conventional Trucks, and Boom Trucks.
  • Hydraulic Truck Crane Operators - operate diesel-powered cranes which are mounted on truck-type chassis, to lift material, objects, or personnel into place.
  • Drives crane to work site and properly sets up per the manufacturer’s operator's manual and company rules regarding cribbing/matting. cribbing blocks or mats as required to perform job requirements of the customer.
  • Directs activities of oilers, truck drivers, or helpers in setting up and knocking down the equipment. placing cribbing blocks and/or pads, moving levers and foot pedals to rotate superstructure, raise and lowers boom to raise and lower cables.
  • May operate crane according to signals from oiler or helper may bolt, pin boom sections together to modify boom lengths.
  • Perform routine maintenance; Page 2 of 2
  • Carry tools for running repairs.
  • Wears PPE safety equipment.
  • Properly barricades counterweight tail swing radius.
  • Take complete charge of all safety pertaining to set up and knockdown and operation of the crane.
  • Understands and can properly fill out job tickets for customers to accept responsibility for Jobsite and billing.
  • Drives truck to worksites and unload truck.
  • Any other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Essential:
  • Knowledgeable in OSHA Regulations and ANSI standards in crane operations.
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language.
  • Possess a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be able to pass a drug test, background check, and fit for duty test.
  • Must possess a current NCCCO or equivalent crane operator certification.
Desired:
  • Prefer candidates with proficient oral and written communication skills, technical skills, and functional skills.
  • Prefer candidates with a CDL Class A license.
Work Environment The employee may be required to wear appropriate PPE equipment. The employee could occasionally be exposed to extreme temperatures, fumes, or airborne particles. The noise level in the workplace is moderate.
Tomahawk Crane amp; Rigging does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Tomahawk Crane amp; Rigging encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans, and all other qualified applicants.

Apply