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

Oakhouse Bakery

Forklift Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/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 ... Assist loading meat into the mixer as needed.Insure ingredients are clean, packaged, and labeled ...

Opportunities, Inc.

Machine Operator

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Essential Functions Assist with job set-up, including minor equipment adjustment and product change ... operator Must have excellent math and reading skills Ability to work independently and solve ...

Walbec Group

Curb Machine Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Our Human Resources Department is available to assist in that process as needed. * Successfully pass or has passed the Operators Union aptitude test when required. The Benefits: * Our union employees ...

Walbec Group

Curb Machine Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Our Human Resources Department is available to assist in that process as needed. * Successfully pass or has passed the Operators Union aptitude test when required. The Benefits: * Our union employees ...

Amrize

Terminal Operator

Madison, WI

Terminal Operator | Req ID: 17621 | HR Contact: Kyle Jon KEMPEN | Location: Madison Terminal WI ... Operate and conduct general maintenance on mobile equipment and assist with general mechanical ...

Alliantenergy

GENCO System Operator II

Madison, WI · On-site

Monitor real-time telemetered data and report data quality issues. Assist in coordinating the ... Participate in operator training activities, drills, simulations, and continuing education programs ...

Alliant Energy

GENCO System Operator II

Madison, WI · On-site

Monitor real-time telemetered data and report data quality issues. Assist in coordinating the ... Participate in operator training activities, drills, simulations, and continuing education programs ...

MacLean Power Systems

Machine Operator

Belleville, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating an AEM Unicore UCM425 machine used to manufacture ... Follow all company safety and quality procedures. * Assist with other production duties as needed.

Co-Staff Job Board

Trim Table Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$16/hr

Trim Table Operator - 1st Shift Location: Janesville, WI Pay Rate: $16.00/hour Schedule: Monday ... Follow all safety procedures and company policies * Assist with general production duties as ...

FGS-WI LLC

2nd Press Operator

Milton, WI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Obtain color to color register * Assist the Press Operator with Inline and Inkjet make-ready and operation * Run the press when the Press Operator is absent or away from the press Qualifications ...

Kruger Family Industries

Pelletizer Operator

Portage, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Pelletizer Operator SUMMARY Operates a plastic compound extruder in a team environment while being ... Operates as a team player to assist all company employees in meeting or exceeding internal customer ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Operating equipment and technology tools throughout the facility which may include mixers, batching ...

Cargill

Production Operator

Oregon, WI · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Operating equipment and technology tools throughout the facility which may include mixers, batching ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Brodhead, WI · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Operating equipment and technology tools throughout the facility which may include mixers, batching ...

Cargill

Production Operator

Jefferson, WI · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Operating equipment and technology tools throughout the facility which may include mixers, batching ...

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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 2, 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.

Forklift Operator

Oakhouse Bakery

Madison, WI • On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely transporting raw materials, components, and finished goods throughout the production facility. This role directly supports production efficiency by ensuring materials are delivered to workstations on time and finished products are moved to storage or shipping areas promptly.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to move raw materials to production lines
  • Supply production stations with necessary materials to prevent downtime
  • Transport finished goods to staging or shipping areas
  • Load and unload inbound raw materials and outbound shipments
  • Safely stack and store materials in designated warehouse or production areas
  • Perform daily pre-operation equipment inspections and basic maintenance checks
  • Follow plant safety procedures, OSHA regulations, and GMP
  • Assist with cycle counts and inventory reconciliation
  • Keep work areas clean and compliant with manufacturing standards
  • Proven experience operating forklifts (sit-down, stand-up, reach truck, etc.)
  • Communicate effectively with production teams, supervisors, and shipping personnel
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Valid forklift certification
  • 1+ year forklift experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting preferred
  • Familiarity with production workflows and material staging
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
  • Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
Work Environment
  • Industrial manufacturing plant
  • Exposure to noise, machinery, dust, or varying temperatures
  • PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (e.g., safety shoes, gloves, eye protection)
  • May involve rotating shifts, weekends, or overtime
Key Competencies
  • Strong safety compliance mindset
  • Time management and efficiency
  • Team collaboration with production staff
  • Problem-solving under production deadlines
  • Reliability and punctuality

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