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Operator Jobs in Columbia, TN (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Pulaski, TN · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Operators complete a variety of maintenance, development and operations tasks that promote the efficient production of a manufacturing plant, construction site or other professional setting. Their ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

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 ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

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 ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

GARNEY A Backfill Operator job is available at Garney. To be considered for this position you must have previous construction experience. As a Backfill Operator , you will operate machinery to ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Forklift Operator

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $18.25/hr

The Forklift Operator plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe movement of materials within a warehouse or distribution center. This position is responsible for operating various ...

Equipment Operator

Franklin, TN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator use construction class vehicle on various job sites in all weather conditions. Heavy Equipment Operators handle motorized apparatus such as bulldozers, excavators, and ...

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Operator information

See Columbia, TN salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator in Columbia, TN is $18.24, 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Columbia, TN?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Columbia, TN are:

What cities near Columbia, TN are hiring for Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Operator job openings in Columbia, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,942 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

$14 - $15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Operators complete a variety of maintenance, development and operations tasks that promote the efficient production of a manufacturing plant, construction site or other professional setting. Their duties and responsibilities often include:

Monitoring and maintaining warehouse equipment and machinery
Setting up manufacturing equipment
Overseeing training of new or Junior Machine Operators
Using machine equipment to complete tasks
Performing routine inspections of manufacturing equipment
Evaluating the efficiency of each unit regularly, identifying improvements as needed

  • Experience in manufacturing

  • Ability to read and interpret work instructions, specifications, and technical documents

  • Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team