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Assistant Operator Jobs in Cottage Grove, WI (NOW HIRING)

American Packaging Corporation

Press Operator 3

De Forest, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Rotating 1st and 2nd (2 Week Rotation) SUMMARY: Assist operator in operation of the press. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: * Support operator's efforts to meet budgeted ...

American Packaging Corporation

Press Operator 3

De Forest, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Rotating 1st and 2nd (2 Week Rotation) SUMMARY: Assist operator in operation of the press. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: * Support operator's efforts to meet budgeted ...

American Packaging Corporation

Press Operator 3

De Forest, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Rotating 1st and 2nd (2 Week Rotation) SUMMARY: Assist operator in operation of the press. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: * Support operator's efforts to meet budgeted ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Middleton, WI · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Machine Operator The Machine Operator works in a GMP-compliant, climate-controlled production ... Oversee the daily performance of Pouch Assistant functions to ensure smooth workflow and adherence ...

GB Packaging

Asst Machine Operator

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Minimize material sheet, ink and adhesive waste. * Assist Machine Operator in the operation of machines, ensuring efficiency and the production of quality products. * Maximize the utilization of ...

Uniroyal Engineered Pro

Production Operator

Stoughton, WI · On-site

$22.44 - $23.20/hr

Production Operator - Coat Department (8 Openings) Uniroyal Engineered Products is a leading ... Make routine machine adjustments as needed. * Assist with material handling and production support ...

Parisi Artisan Coffee

Loader Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

Our Human Resources Department is available to assist in that process if needed. * Successfully pass or has passed the Operators Union aptitude test when required. * Ability to clean, maintain, and ...

QPS

Forklift Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$18/hr

Forklift Operator Wage: $18.00/hour Shift: 2nd Hours: 2:00pm - 10:00pm (Monday - Friday, Possible ... Please note that QPS Employment Group may use a virtual recruiting assistant to help screen and ...

QPS

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$20.35/hr

Forklift Operator Wage: $20.35/hour Shift: 12 Hour Days or Nights Hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm or 6:00pm ... Please note that QPS Employment Group may use a virtual recruiting assistant to help screen and ...

QPS

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI

$20.35/hr

Forklift Operator Wage: $20.35/hour Shift: 12 Hour Days or Nights Hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm or 6:00pm ... Please note that QPS Employment Group may use a virtual recruiting assistant to help screen and ...

QPS

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI

$20.35/hr

Forklift Operator Wage: $20.35/hour Shift: 12 Hour Days or Nights Hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm or 6:00pm ... Please note that QPS Employment Group may use a virtual recruiting assistant to help screen and ...

Keep It Real Foods LLC

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Follow plant safety procedures, OSHA regulations, and GMP * Assist with cycle counts and inventory ... Proven experience operating forklifts (sit-down, stand-up, reach truck, etc.) * Communicate ...

Phelps Industries LLC

Processing Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Processing operators perform different jobs depending on skill and training level. Essential ... Record the lot numbers used on the batch sheet. * Assist loading meat into the mixer as needed.

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All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Cottage Grove, WI

Assistant Operator information

See Cottage Grove, WI salary details

$10

$18

$29

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Cottage Grove, WI is $18.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant operator?

Assistant Operators are entry-level professionals who support the operation of machinery or equipment in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or logistics. They work under the supervision of senior operators to help monitor processes, perform basic maintenance, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Their responsibilities may include setting up machines, loading materials, inspecting products, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Assistant Operators play a key role in maintaining efficient production and minimizing downtime. This position is often a stepping stone to more advanced operator roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, control panels, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good teamwork skills help you excel in supporting smooth operations. These skills ensure safe, efficient production processes and help maintain workplace safety and productivity.

What are some common challenges assistant operators face during shift changes, and how can they be managed effectively?

Assistant Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as incomplete handovers or miscommunication about ongoing tasks. To manage these effectively, it’s important to follow standardized handover procedures, maintain accurate and up-to-date logs, and communicate proactively with both outgoing and incoming team members. Building strong teamwork and attention to detail helps ensure a smooth transition and minimizes operational disruptions.

What is the difference between Assistant Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssistant OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in setup, monitoring, and maintenance of machineryOperates machinery directly, responsible for production output
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, construction, and industrial plantsPrimarily in manufacturing, processing, and production facilities

Assistant Operators support Machine Operators by preparing equipment and monitoring processes, while Machine Operators handle the direct operation of machinery. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in industrial settings, but Machine Operators have more responsibility for operating equipment independently.

Which assistant operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying assistant operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, or power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry, with some positions offering significantly higher compensation due to the complexity and risk involved.

What cities near Cottage Grove, WI are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Cottage Grove, WI with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Cottage Grove, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,042 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Machine Assistant Operator - 3rd Shift

Fort Atkinson, WI

Hughes Recruiting & Consulting
See more jobs at Hughes Recruiting & Consultingexternal

$18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Machine Assistant Operator: Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin
Our customer in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin is seeking motivated individuals to join their team. We’re recruiting Machine Assistant Operators to work full-time on 3rd shift. As a Machine Assistant Operator, you will support machine operations by assisting with equipment setup, monitoring production, performing quality checks, and helping keep production running efficiently.
 
Responsibilities of the Machine Assistant Operator:
  • Assist machine operators with starting, stopping, and adjusting machinery during production.
  • Monitor machine performance and output to ensure quality and consistency.
  • Support machine setup by loading materials and adjusting settings as needed.
  • Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance tasks on equipment.
  • Inspect finished products to ensure they meet quality standards.
  • Identify issues and assist with basic troubleshooting when problems arise.
  • Accurately record production data, machine settings, and issues encountered.
  • Assist with loading and unloading materials and finished products.
  • Operate forklifts or material handling equipment as trained.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Work closely with team members to support daily production goals.
 
Machine Assistant Operator Requirements and Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Previous manufacturing or machine operation experience preferred but not required.
  • Basic mechanical ability with willingness to learn equipment operation.
  • Strong attention to detail and focus on quality.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
  •  Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
  • Willingness to work extended shifts when needed (9–10 hours).
 
Pay for Machine Assistant Operator: starting at $18.75/hour.
 
Machine Assistant Operator Benefits:
  • Health insurance.
  • 401k with company match.
  • Paid weekly.
  • Paid training.
 
Type: 3rd Shift, Full-time.
 
Schedule: Sunday – Thursday, 10:00pm – 6:00am. OT as needed on Fridays.
 
Apply now! Are you ready to move from the worries of today to your dreams of tomorrow? If so, give Hughes a call. We are the top-rated staffing, recruiting, and HR experts in the region. We are headquartered in Freeport, IL and have 11 locations across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Where we have offices, we have connections to the best local jobs! Walk in our doors and you’ll find friendly professional staff who dig deep, get results, and most importantly have fun! The reviews speak for themselves, at Hughes we quickly hook you up with companies that offer competitive pay rates, great culture & benefits, and a chance to elevate your life. We offer health insurance and 401(k) too to all our employees. To get the ball rolling, visit us online at www.hughesrecruiting.com and complete our application. We’ll be in touch soon!