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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Press Operator

WI · On-site

$18/hr

Plastech Corporation is now hiring a full-time entry level Machine Press Operator. Prior injection molding experience is not required. In the Machine Press Operator position, you operate automatic ...

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Assembly Operator

Watertown, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... environment. Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. Training is provided. Job ... standard operating procedures, and production standards • Adjust units and job order ...

Associate Operator

Arcadia, WI · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Performs production activities at an entry level by operating equipment, adding ingredients, packaging, cleaning, etc., following the instructions of the Shift Team Lead, following all standard ...

Machine Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Client: Medical Device Manufacturing Company Duration: 12 Months (Possible ... • Entry-level manufacturing position • Performs routine and clearly defined tasks • Works ...

Forklift Operator

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Malone Workforce Solutions is hiring experienced Forklift Operators for a dedicated distribution ... entry-level positions If you're ready to join a team that values your experience and offers real ...

New

Malone Workforce Solutions is hiring experienced Forklift Operators for a dedicated distribution ... entry-level positions If you're ready to join a team that values your experience and offers real ...

New

Operator

Ellsworth, WI · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Operator 1 Compensation: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour (depending on experience) Position Summary Operator 1 is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the operation of dredging and related ...

Operator

Ellsworth, WI · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Operator 1 Compensation:$20.00 - $28.00 per hour (depending on experience) Position Summary Operator 1 is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the operation of dredging and related ...

Malone Workforce Solutions is hiring experienced Forklift Operators for a dedicated distribution ... entry-level positions If you're ready to join a team that values your experience and offers real ...

Machine Operator

Poynette, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Machine Operators are respected team members responsible for operating packaging machines, metal ... This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ...

Machine Operator

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Great opportunity at local top workplace for someone looking for an entry level general labor/machine operator role in a flexible, manufacturing environment. Full time, direct hire, complete benefits ...

Machine Operator

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Great opportunity at local top workplace for someone looking for an entry level general labor/machine operator role in a flexible, manufacturing environment. Full time, direct hire, complete benefits ...

Machine Operator

Waukesha, WI

$17 - $20.25/hr

Description Great opportunity at local top workplace for someone looking for an entry level general labor/machine operator role in a flexible, manufacturing environment. Full time, direct hire ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Wisconsin is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What are entry level operators?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,666 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Machine Operator Apprentice - Entry Level-Watertown,Wisconsin

Machine Operator Apprentice - Entry Level-Watertown,Wisconsin

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Marshall, WI

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Illinois Tool Works rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 433 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Location: Watertown, WI
No experience? No problem. Start your career in manufacturing with ITW Shakeproof, a division of ITW (Fortune 250). We've been in business for over 100 years and are still growing!
What We Offer:
  • Pay: Starting pay begins at $20 per hour. Experienced candidates qualify for higher starting rates.
  • Competitive pay with raises as you grow your skills
  • Excellent benefits: medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, wellness reimbursement, & more
  • Job security with a stable, global company
  • Career growth & advancement opportunities (average employee tenure = 18 years!)

What You'll Do:
  • Learn to set up and operate manufacturing machines
  • Monitor quality and production efficiency
  • Keep your area clean, safe, and organized
  • Work with a supportive, team-focused environment

What We're Looking For:
  • No prior manufacturing experience required-just strong work ethic & eagerness to learn
  • Mechanical aptitude is a plus
  • High school diploma or equivalent

Ready to start your career in manufacturing? Apply today and grow with ITW Shakeproof!
Compensation Information:
Starting pay begins at $20 per hour. Experienced candidates may qualify for higher starting rates. Along with great pay, we offer excellent insurance and perks - including top health benefits, 401(k) match, paid time off, and real opportunities for advancement.

What Illinois Tool Works employees say

Pay

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Hours and flexibility

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Illinois Tool Works logo

About Illinois Tool Works

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ITW is a global industrial company built around a differentiated and proprietary business model. The company’s seven industry-leading segments leverage the unique ITW Business Model to drive solid growth with best-in-class margins and returns in markets where highly innovative, customer-focused solutions are required. From state-of-the-art dishwashers, ovens and refrigerators in restaurants and hotels, to automobile components inside vehicles all over the world ... the products we manufacture and the solutions we design are all around us. The buildings where we live and work are built with ITW construction and welding products, and our ITW test & measurement solutions help to ensure the quality and safety of millions of products. ITW’s dedicated colleagues around the world thrive in the company’s decentralized and entrepreneurial culture. Our leaders have deep expertise in the ITW Business Model and leverage it to deliver superior performance and value to our customers.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Glenview, IL, US

Year founded

1912