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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Processing Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

... Entry level position generally responsible for removing cooked product from screens and packing into work in process (WIP) bins making sure not to mix products and properly labeling WIP bins.

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Entry Level Extrusion Operator 47972 6am-6pm on rotating schedule including some weekends 6pm-6am ... Identify cold & hot sheet in extrusion process & adjust knives & shear to insure correct sheet size.

Job Title: Entry Level Machine Operator We are seeking an Entry Level Machine Operator for an ... We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing ...

Associate Operator

Arcadia, WI

$17.50 - $23/hr

... process equipment, in accordance with Key Performance Measures, Current Good Manufacturing ... Performs production activities at an entry level by operating equipment, adding ingredients ...

This entry-level engineering position partners closely with Production, Quality, Planning ... Develop and revise work instructions and standard operating procedures * Process Engineering Change ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Sussex, WI · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Keywords: machine operator, manufacturing, entry level, production About SEEK Careers/Staffing You ... You'll find that the process is thorough and that your experience is personalized. SEEK Careers ...

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Machine Operator

Watertown, WI · On-site

$17 - $28/hr

... environment. Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. Training is provided. Job ... Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections to verify compliance with customer ...

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

... isn't an entry-level role. We're looking for someone who knows their machine, takes pride in ... Confidential Search We're representing the employer throughout the hiring process. If your ...

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

... isn't an entry-level role. We're looking for someone who knows their machine, takes pride in ... Confidential Search We're representing the employer throughout the hiring process. If your ...

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Entry Level Process Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do entry level process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in Wisconsin is $21.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level process operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Operator, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with process control systems, instrumentation, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and teamwork help operators excel in monitoring equipment and responding to issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations, minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What are some typical challenges an entry level process operator may face when starting in this role?

As an Entry Level Process Operator, you may initially find it challenging to quickly learn and follow complex operational procedures and safety protocols, especially in fast-paced manufacturing or industrial environments. Adjusting to shift work and collaborating with experienced operators can also require adaptability and strong communication skills. However, with on-the-job training and support from your team, you'll gain practical experience and confidence in monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring quality standards are met.

Is it hard to be an entry level process operator?

Becoming an entry level process operator typically involves basic technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and requires learning specific equipment and procedures, but it is generally accessible to those with a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, and certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial.

How to become an entry level process operator with no experience?

To become an entry level process operator with no experience, focus on gaining a high school diploma or equivalent, and develop basic skills in math, reading, and problem-solving. Many employers provide on-the-job training, but obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training or process technology courses can improve your chances. Prior experience in manufacturing or technical environments is not required but can be beneficial.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Operator vs Production Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process OperatorProduction Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or processing plants, often in chemical, food, or pharmaceutical industriesManufacturing facilities, focusing on equipment maintenance and process support
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in chemical, oil & gas, and manufacturing sectorsUsed across similar industries, often overlapping with process roles

The Entry Level Process Operator and Production Technician roles share similar environments and credentials, often working in manufacturing plants. While both roles support production processes, process operators typically focus on monitoring and controlling equipment, whereas technicians may handle maintenance and troubleshooting tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and career goals.

What is an entry level process operator?

An entry level process operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling machinery and equipment in manufacturing or processing plants. They ensure that processes run smoothly, safely, and efficiently by following standard operating procedures and reporting any issues to supervisors. Their duties often include starting or stopping equipment, taking readings, performing basic maintenance, and maintaining accurate logs. This role typically requires a high school diploma and some on-the-job training, making it an accessible entry point into industrial operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,396 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: Processing Operators are responsible for meeting production throughput and quality goals, ensuring all product checks are performed and documentation is correct. They must be able to follow food safety Good Manufacturing Practices and procedures and personal safety procedures. Processing operators perform different jobs depending on skill and training level.


Essential Functions and Related Responsibilities:


Processing Operator 1


Entry level position generally responsible for removing cooked product from screens and packing into work in process (WIP) bins making sure not to mix products and properly labeling WIP bins.

  • Ensure product is released by quality and can be removed from screens.
  • Remove product from the screens and place into WIP bins.
  • Notify department leader and/or quality of any noted issues with the product.

Positions may be 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift.


Processing Operator 2


Next level position that may be assigned to several different tasks;

  • Loading screens onto extrusion conveyor belt,
  • taking screens with product on them off the extruder belt and placing into racks, or
  • moving racks into the processing room and taking filled racks out of the processing room and placing into an oven.

This is a 1st shift position with staggered start times working in the processing cold room.


Processing Operator 3


Upgraded skill position that includes ability to setup, run, and disassemble the extruder in addition to tasks assigned in Processing Operator 2 and/or coarse chopping meat prior to mixing.


Extrusion skills;

  • Assemble extruder parts and attach the correct die for the order.
  • Change dies as needed for additional jobs.
  • Disassemble the extruder after production for sanitation.

Meat chopping skills;

  • Locate meat according to the batch sheet and coarse chop with the provided machine.
  • Record the lot numbers used on the batch sheet.
  • Assist loading meat into the mixer as needed.
  • Insure ingredients are clean, packaged, and labeled correctly before returning to stock.

This is a 1st shift position with staggered start times working in the processing cold room.


Processing Operator 4


Upgraded skill position that includes the ability to add ingredients according to the batch sheet and run the mixing bowl in addition to tasks assigned in Processing Operator 3.


Mixing skills;

  • Ability to follow batch sheet for ingredients and mixing instructions.
  • Record appropriate lot numbers and mix time on the batch sheet.

This is a 1st shift position with staggered start times working in the processing cold room.


Processing Operator 5


Upgraded skill position that includes the ability to gather materials required for making batches and be able to perform any of the Operator level tasks as needed.

  • Ability to understand and pick ingredients needed for products to be run for the day
  • Ability to drive a forklift.
  • Record appropriate lot numbers and mix time on the batch sheet.

This is a 1st shift position with staggered start times working in the processing cold room.


Job Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be detailed oriented
  • Must be 18 years of age

Education/Experience:

High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.


Language Ability:

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.


Math Ability:

Ability to add and subtract and to multiply and divide. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance.


Reasoning Ability:

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out simple instructions. Ability to deal with standardized situations with only occasional or no variables.


Computer Skills:

No computer skills required.


Physical Demands:


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


The employee must (depending on position)

  • regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds,
  • frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and
  • occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • regularly required to stand; walk and use hands to handle or feel. The employee is

frequently required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is

  • occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk and hear.
  • pushing and pulling of materials on carts.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


While performing the duties of this job, the employee is

  • occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions (non-weather).
  • work near moving mechanical parts.
  • fumes or airborne particles.
  • cold (non-weather) and heat (non-weather).
  • The noise level in the work environment may be loud.