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

Cutter Operator or Size Jacket Operator 1st Shift | Monday-Friday | 6:30 AM - 3:00 PMDeForest, WI ... Complete routine light maintenance, including blade and oil changes * Assist in other manufacturing ...

Drill Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... Assist with conduit placement, potholing, proofing conduits, concrete work, asphalt placement, and ... Operator levels (I, II, III) are differentiated based on experience, certifications, and ...

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Machine Operator

Watertown, WI · On-site

$17 - $28/hr

Machine Operator Job Brief Innerpak Inc. Is seeking dependable and motivated individuals to join ... debris * Assist with general facility housekeeping and maintenance as needed * Support 5S and ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

PrePress Operator

Columbus, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Prepress Operator LOCATION: Columbus, WI SHIFT: 1st (7am-3pm) SUMMARY: To prepare and stage press ... Aid on press set-ups as needed. Assist miscellaneous housekeeping and cleaning responsibilities.

PrePress Operator

Columbus, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Prepress Operator LOCATION: Columbus, WI SHIFT: 1st (7am-3pm) SUMMARY: To prepare and stage press ... Aid on press set-ups as needed. Assist miscellaneous housekeeping and cleaning responsibilities.

The Equipment Operator is responsible for learning all aspects of the material handler (hydraulic ... Making lifts to assist. * Operate Heavy Equipment to load/ unload trucks and rail cars, and feed ...

Loader Operator I

Portage, WI · On-site

$33K - $41K/yr

Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed. * Supports and assists with Yard Staff responsibilities as needed. * Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications * Experience operating ...

Machine Operator

Sauk City, WI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The machine operator has knowledge of commonly used production machine operation concepts ... Locate and ensure correct material is pulled to work center. * Assist with layout; interpret ...

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Windsor, WI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in ... * Assist with general labor duties as needed, including material handling and site cleanup.

Underground Operator 1

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

... Assist with placing conduit, handholes, vaults, and pedestals Perform daily equipment inspections ... Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required Experience in ...

... packaging. * Assist with packing, palletizing, unloading, and general material handling tasks ... At least 1 year of experience operating a sit-down forklift. * Proven experience with material ...

New

Underground Operator 1

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Maintain awareness of existing underground utilities and avoid service disruptions * Assist with ... Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required * Experience in ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Operator information

See Cottage Grove, WI salary details

$10

$18

$29

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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.

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 higher compensation due to the complexity of equipment or hazardous environments.

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 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.

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 cities near Cottage Grove, WI are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs? Cities near Cottage Grove, WI with the most Assistant Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Cottage Grove, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% 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 Operator (2 Positions)

Demco, Inc.

De Forest, WI

$17 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Manufacturing Machine Operators: Cutter Operator or Size Jacket Operator

1st Shift | Monday-Friday | 6:30 AM - 3:00 PMDeForest, WI

Join the team that helps bring learning to life! Demco is looking for dependable, mechanically inclined individuals to fill two Machine Operator positions in our Manufacturing facility. Whether you're interested in operating our Itoh Cutter or our Size Jacket machine, you'll become part of a collaborative team committed to producing high-quality products in a safe, efficient environment.

In either role, you will:

  • Safely operate specialized manufacturing equipment (Size Jacket or Itoh Cutter)
  • Follow job tickets to cut materials to the correct specifications
  • Perform quality checks to ensure finished products meet expectations
  • Order raw materials as needed
  • Complete routine light maintenance, including blade and oil changes
  • Assist in other manufacturing areas as business needs change

What we're looking for:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous experience operating manufacturing equipment 
  • Previous experience operating a digitized guillotine cutter for the Cutter Operator role
  • Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to stand for the majority of an 8-hour shift
  • Willingness to cross-train and work overtime as needed

Why Join Demco?

We believe great employees deserve great perks. In addition to competitive pay and benefits, you'll enjoy:

  • Free company apparel
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages
  • Massage chair & recharge station
  • Supportive team environment
  • Opportunities to learn new skills through cross-training
  • A company culture that values safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement
  • Full benefits package included many insurance options, investment in your retirement, and paid time off

Build something meaningful with Demco.