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Junior Machine Operator Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 1St Shift Marine Junior Assembler to join our Prairie Du ... Occasional material handling and stocking of components at machine being operated. Essential Duties ...

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 1st Shift Jr. Assembler Trainee to join our Prairie Du Sac ... Occasional material handling and stocking of components at machine being operated. Essential Duties ...

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 2nd Shift Marine Junior Assembler to join our Prairie Du ... Occasional material handling and stocking of components at machine being operated. Essential Duties ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Madison, WI

$105K - $139K/yr

... junior engineers, and contribute to strategic decisions that support the commercialization of ... to and including operating machine shop equipment. * Communication: Synthesize and present ...

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Junior Machine Operator information

See Madison, WI salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do junior machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior machine operator in Madison, WI is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes experience with computerized control systems are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient production processes and help maintain quality standards on the manufacturing floor.

What are Junior Machine Operators?

Junior Machine Operators are entry-level workers responsible for operating and maintaining machinery in manufacturing or production environments. They assist in setting up machines, monitoring their operation, and ensuring products meet quality standards. Junior Machine Operators often perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot minor issues, and follow safety protocols to maintain a smooth workflow. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced operators or supervisors while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by Junior Machine Operators during their first few months on the job?

Junior Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as learning to operate different types of machinery efficiently and safely, adapting to shift work or fast-paced production environments, and quickly identifying and resolving minor equipment issues. They may also need to familiarize themselves with quality control standards and reporting procedures. Support from more experienced colleagues and ongoing training are typically available to help new operators overcome these hurdles and build confidence in their role.

What is the difference between Junior Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectJunior Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, some certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, manufacturing or production settingsMore autonomous, similar manufacturing environments
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with machine setup, basic operation, and maintenanceOperating machinery independently, troubleshooting, quality checks

The main difference between a Junior Machine Operator and a Machine Operator lies in experience and responsibility level. Junior Machine Operators are typically entry-level, requiring basic training and supervision, while Machine Operators have more experience and handle more complex tasks independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing settings, with the Junior role serving as a stepping stone to becoming a fully qualified Machine Operator.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI are:
1st Shift Marine Junior Assembler (Dept 030)

1st Shift Marine Junior Assembler (Dept 030)

Milwaukee Valve

Prairie Du Sac, WI

$20.58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 1St Shift Marine Junior Assembler to join our Prairie Du Sac, WI team in Department 030. This position has a starting hourly wage of $20.58.

* This position is eligible for a $1,000 sign-on bonus. The first half ($500) is payable after successful completion of the orientation period and the second half ($500) is payable after one year of employment. *

The regularly scheduled hours for this position are 6:00am-2:30PM, Monday through Friday. Overtime may become a possibility or even required. When working overtime, the regularly scheduled shift is adjusted by 1-2 hours at either the beginning or end of the regularly scheduled shift. Overtime may also be requested or mandatory on Saturdays as well. 

All offers of employment made by Milwaukee Valve are contingent upon successfully completing our required drug screen and physical capabilities tests.

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Established in 1901, Milwaukee Valve manufactures valves for a variety of industries including Industrial, Commercial, Fire Protection, Marine and the dry bulk hauling industries. Our products have been installed on every U.S. Navy ship built for the last 50 years. 

Our heritage, our people, and our passion is to be the best, and Milwaukee Valve is proud of its engineering excellence and its employees who take pride and dedication in their work. In return, Milwaukee Valve offers an excellent benefit package, competitive wages, and promotional opportunities including Health, Dental, Life and Disability Insurance options, Flex Spending, 401K with employer match, tuition assistance, paid time off, and shift premiums. For more information please visit: 

Our Homepage 
Job Opportunities Video 
Modern Machining Centers Tour 
Employee Testimonial Commerical

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Summary - The Marine Junior Assembler is responsible for learning the process of assembling and operation of assembly machines according to directions.  With assistance, they will aid in the fabrication, to produce various size and types of valves, using tools and fixtures. Occasional material handling and stocking of components at machine being operated.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities to which competency will be measured include the following: 

  • Learn the operation of hand or bench type power tools.
  • Learn the operation of air and hydro testers.
  • Learn how to read and interpret instructions on test reports.
  • Application of sealants, greases and thread locker as called out on test reports.
  • Learn to disassemble and repair product.
  • Minor material handling and stocking required.
  • Use of hoist and other lifting equipment.
  • Keep a clean and well-maintained workspace.
  • Must be able to perform fore-mentioned duties with varying product types.
  • Work is subject to final inspection.

Other duties may be assigned. 

Additional Requirements - To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following requirements and competencies:
Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; applies feedback to improve performance; monitors own work to ensure quality.
Quantity - Meets productivity standards; completes work in timely manner; strives to increase productivity; works quickly.
Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.
Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and present at his/her workstation and ready to begin working at their scheduled time.

Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions.

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. 

Education and/or 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 Skills -
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions read and interpret documents, such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, routers, test reports and bill of materials. 

Mathematical Skills - Ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Reasoning Ability -
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written or oral form. Ability to deal effectively with routine problems and situations.
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.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand. The employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch or bend. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Requires good manual dexterity. Must be able to move hands and arms freely and reach for objects above eye level.

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 frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.