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Operator Jobs in Athens, TN (NOW HIRING)

AtWork!

Forklift Operator

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Kilift Operator Atwork is now hiring experienced for kilift operator in Madisonville, TN. 1st shift from 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. 12 hour rotating shifts. Pay: $15.00/hr. - $16.00/hr. DOE. Experience is ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated Forklift Operator to join our warehouse team. The primary responsibility will be case picking orders to pallet using an electric pallet jack in a fast-paced environment.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN

$19.55/hr

Introductory role involves operating a double pallet jack to build a pallet of mixed products. This requires being on your feet the entirety of the shift and repetitive lifting up to 40 lbs.

Wise Staffing Group

Forklift Operator

Athens, TN · On-site

$15/hr

Forklift Operators Salary: $15+ an hour, weekly pay Type: Full-time Responsibilities: Unloading & Loading: Unload materials and merchandise from incoming vehicles and stack them to assigned places.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated Forklift Operator to join our warehouse team. The primary responsibility will be case picking orders to pallet using an electric pallet jack in a fast-paced environment.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated Forklift Operator to join our warehouse team. The primary responsibility will be case picking orders to pallet using an electric pallet jack in a fast-paced environment.

DHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated Forklift Operator to join our warehouse team. The primary responsibility will be case picking orders to pallet using an electric pallet jack in a fast-paced environment.

DHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

Introductory role involves operating a double pallet jack to build a pallet of mixed products. This requires being on your feet the entirety of the shift and repetitive lifting up to 40 lbs.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Charleston, TN · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated Forklift Operator to join our warehouse team. The primary responsibility will be case picking orders to pallet using an electric pallet jack in a fast-paced environment.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

Introductory role involves operating a double pallet jack to build a pallet of mixed products. This requires being on your feet the entirety of the shift and repetitive lifting up to 40 lbs.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

Introductory role involves operating a double pallet jack to build a pallet of mixed products. This requires being on your feet the entirety of the shift and repetitive lifting up to 40 lbs.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

Introductory role involves operating a double pallet jack to build a pallet of mixed products. This requires being on your feet the entirety of the shift and repetitive lifting up to 40 lbs.

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN

$19.55/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 1st shift, Monday - Friday 8am-4pm Pay: $19.55 per hour Additional Incentives: Attendance incentive In addition to the general below, the ideal candidate will also possess ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 1st shift, Monday - Friday 8am-4pm Pay: $19.55 per hour Additional Incentives: Attendance incentive In addition to the general below, the ideal candidate will also possess ...

Del Conca USA Inc

Kiln Operator

Loudon, TN · On-site

$17 - $18.60/hr

Position Summary The Kiln Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining production equipment in the tile manufacturing process, including the kiln entrance, kiln exit, and ...

Del Conca USA Inc

Kiln Operator

Loudon, TN · On-site

$17 - $18.60/hr

Position Summary The Kiln Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining production equipment in the tile manufacturing process, including the kiln entrance, kiln exit, and ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Jobs in Athens, TN

Operator information

See Athens, TN salary details

$9

$16

$24

How much do operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator in Athens, TN is $16.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.51 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 cities near Athens, TN are hiring for Operator jobs?

Cities near Athens, TN with the most Operator job openings:

Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator job openings in Athens, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,965 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Hunter Recruitment Advisors

Loudon, TN • On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Plumbing Excavator Operator

Bio Plumbing
Location: Loudon, TN
Pay Range: $30–32 per Hour (DOE) + Overtime + Benefits

Build More Than Trenches—Build a Career.

We're a growing, family-owned residential plumbing company looking for a skilled Excavator Operator to join our team. If you have experience operating equipment for sewer and water line installations and enjoy working alongside a hardworking crew, we'd love to meet you.

This is a hands-on position where you'll play a critical role in residential plumbing projects, ensuring excavation work is completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to homeowners' properties.

What You'll Do

  • Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects.
  • Working on a 2-3 man slab crew.
  • Reading blueprints.
  • Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs.
  • Safely expose existing underground utilities and work around utility locates.
  • Backfill, grade, and restore job sites following excavation work.
  • Assist plumbers with underground piping, trench preparation, and other labor as needed.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company policies at all times.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • 3+ years of excavator operating experience
  • Residential plumbing or underground utilities background required.
  • Experience reading blueprints.
  • Experience digging around existing utilities and working from utility locates.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely and efficiently in residential neighborhoods.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to assist the plumbing team when not operating equipment.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • CDL is a plus but not required.

Benefits

Why Join Our Team?

  • Competitive Pay: $30–32 per hour based on experience
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Stable, year-round work
  • Modern, well-maintained equipment
  • Supportive, family-oriented work environment
  • Opportunities for advancement as our company continues to grow

Join Our Team

We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, values safety, and enjoys being part of a team that delivers quality service to homeowners every day. If you're dependable, experienced, and ready for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build the infrastructure that keeps our community running!