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Production Operative Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Vestis

Production Soil Operator

Wixom, MI · On-site

$17/hr

More than a provider, we are a partner in productivity, trusted to keep you running. Join us and build a career supporting the people who make it all work. Overview Performs work as part of a team in ...

Oakwood Group

Stamping/Assembly Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

PRODUCTION OPERATOR LOCATION: Taylor, MI ALL SHIFTS REPORTS TO: PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR UNION CONTRACT DESCRIPTION: At Oakwood Group, our Production Operators manufacture one or both of our industry ...

The Oakwood Group

Stamping/Assembly Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

PRODUCTION OPERATOR LOCATION: Taylor, MI ALL SHIFTS REPORTS TO: PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR UNION CONTRACT DESCRIPTION: At Oakwood Group, our Production Operators manufacture one or both of our industry ...

Flex-N-Gate

LVP Production Operator 2nd shift

Warren, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

PRINCIPLE DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Operator may put a metal or steel part on a fixture. • ... and quality of products, processes and work environment What We Offer • Medical, dental ...

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All JobsProduction Operative JobsProduction Operative Jobs in Detroit, MI

Production Operative information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$11

$18

$29

How much do production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for production operative in Detroit, MI is $18.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production operative?

Production Operatives are workers responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and performing various tasks to support the manufacturing process in factories or production facilities. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, checking product quality, packaging goods, and maintaining a clean working environment. Production Operatives play a vital role in ensuring that products are made efficiently, safely, and to the required standards. They may work on production lines and typically follow strict health and safety guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a production operative?

To thrive as a Production Operative, you need basic manufacturing knowledge, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with machinery, assembly line equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required, and some roles may value forklift or other equipment certification. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are soft skills that help individuals excel in this position. These skills and qualities are important to ensure efficient production processes, maintain safety standards, and support quality outcomes in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by production operatives and how can they be managed?

Production Operatives often encounter challenges such as meeting tight production deadlines, adapting to repetitive tasks, and maintaining focus in a fast-paced environment. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, embrace teamwork, and communicate openly with supervisors about any obstacles. Many companies also provide training on equipment use and safety protocols, which can make daily tasks more manageable and efficient.

What is the difference between Production Operative vs Factory Worker?

AspectProduction OperativeFactory Worker
ResponsibilitiesOperating machinery, assembling products, quality checksGeneral manufacturing tasks, packaging, basic machine operation
Required SkillsBasic technical skills, attention to detailManual dexterity, teamwork
Work EnvironmentManufacturing lines, production floorsFactories, assembly lines
CertificationsNone typically required, some roles may need health & safety trainingNone typically required

Both roles are essential in manufacturing, with Production Operatives often handling more technical tasks and machinery operation, while Factory Workers perform general manufacturing and assembly duties. The roles overlap in work environment and basic skills, but Production Operatives usually require more specific technical knowledge.

Production Operative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Operative job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,840 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Operator Production 1st Shift

Dakkota Integrated Systems

Detroit, MI

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Operator 1st

Location: Detroit, MI

Type: Full-Time | On-Site

Why Dakkota

For over 24 years, Dakkota Integrated Systems has delivered excellence through precision-engineered, build-to-order vehicle components from cockpits to fascia assemblies. Our award-winning team combines advanced lean manufacturing, strong product development, and a highly efficient supply chain to meet customer demands with reliability and innovation.

If you're looking for a company that empowers you to grow while driving excellence, collaboration, and innovation to create real impact, we’d love to meet you.

What You’ll Do

  • Operate production tooling and equipment in a manner that achieves production and quality goals and standards.
  • Assist in maintaining Business Operating System integrity and alerting those situations that do not meet the quality system requirements to management.
  • Maintain integrity of tooling and equipment necessary to perform work.
  • Disposition and move suspect assemblies or components to Non-Conforming or assembly rework area.
  • Work in a manner that promotes teamwork among fellow workers.
  • Communicate effectively with direct supervision on all aspects of the job performance, including across all shifts.
  • Accurately complete all paperwork associated with the job assignment.
  • Document all activities as required.
  • Adhere to all company guidelines for Emergency Evacuation to ensure employee safety.
  • Any additional responsibility deemed necessary by management.

Who you are

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Good written and mathematical skills.
  • Good communication and team working skills.
  • Possesses color and/or appearance testing approval where applicable.
  • Familiar with quality specifications and documentation in an automotive environment a plus.

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

  • 50 pounds lifting.
  • Able to tolerate standing for 8 hours or more.
  • Occasional lifting, climbing, carrying, pulling, griping, grasping and reaching 11-64% of work day.
  • Hand and eye coordination.

Life at Dakkota

Our success is rooted in meaningful relationships and a culture that feels like family. We champion compassion, respect, and work-life balance, while supporting each team member’s personal and professional growth. Through ongoing development, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, we empower our people to thrive both at work and in life.

Explore everything we have to offer at Dakkota Careers!