The Day-to-Day Duties of an Assistant Operator

Are you interested in working in a manufacturing or industrial setting? A position as an assistant operator may be right for you. Here’s what you need to know.

What Does an Assistant Operator Do?

An assistant operator helps or assists more skilled production workers. Day-to-day duties could include:

  • Controlling and operating machines
  • Using computers to program and/or set up functions
  • Drafting, laying out and specifying technical devices, parts and equipment
  • Inspecting equipment for problems or defeats
  • Maintaining, adjusting and repairing equipment
  • Solving problems
  • Tidying work areas
  • Moving objects either physically or with the aid of machines
  • Operating vehicles such as forklifts
  • Organizing and prioritizing workloads
  • Monitoring processes for safety and efficiency
  • Collecting information about products and processes
  • Compiling, categorizing and evaluating data
  • Documenting or recording information in written/electronic form.
  • Communicating information to supervisors and co-workers
  • Establishing and maintaining strong working relationships
  • Developing and building teams
  • Training and teaching others
  • Learning and applying the latest technology

What Skills Does This Job Require?

To be successful, assistant operators should be experts at operating and repairing machinery. Familiarity with production processes and safety protocols is valuable too. Other useful technical abilities include strong math skills, experience with data analysis as well as knowledge of relevant computer systems.

Additionally, several soft skills are vital to this job, such as:

  • Active listening
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving
  • Flexibility
  • Creativity
  • Self-motivation
  • Dependability
  • Time management
  • Leadership
  • Emotional awareness
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Teamwork
  • A positive attitude

How Do You Become an Assistant Operator?

Most assistant operators learn their trade on the job. However, some companies require their employees to have a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED). Also, you can pick up skills along the way to make yourself a better fit for this role. For example, you could work as an intern in a machine shop, learn to drive a forklift, or take a drafting course. Any of these types of experiences will make you more marketable.

Are You Interested in a Light Industrial Job?

Halpin Staffing Services is hiring assistant operators, assemblers, maintenance technicians, CNC machinists and more! Our recruiters can help you find a career-building opportunity in Racine, Wisconsin and beyond. Browse our available industrial openings and discover your next job today!

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