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Light Manufacturing Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

As our Manufacturing Engineer, Fabrication, you'll design and optimize the metal fabrication ... Occasional bending, reaching, climbing stairs, and light lifting (up to 40 lbs., if applicable)

This manufacturing technician position will be based in Madison, WI. This position will be ... light of export control restrictions. #LI-RD1 Employment Type: OTHER

This manufacturing technician position will be based in Madison, WI. This position will be ... light of export control restrictions. #LI-RD1 Employment Type: OTHER

Light Assembly - (2nd shift)

Roberts, WI ยท On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment * Willingness to learn and follow instructions * Basic understanding of measuring tools and color coding is a plus * Ability to stand, bend ...

Lead Manufacturing Technician

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$28.87 - $41.28/hr

Job ID: 114911 DRS Daylight Solutions business provides industry-changing mid-infrared laser light ... Job Summary As a Lead Manufacturing Technician, you will be responsible for the assembly, precise ...

Showing results 41-60

Light Manufacturing information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$25

$34

How much do light manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for light manufacturing in Wisconsin is $25.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in light manufacturing?

To thrive in Light Manufacturing, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and inventory management systems like ERP software is often required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and reliability help individuals excel in this environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficiency, safety, and product quality on the production floor.

What is the difference between Light Manufacturing vs Assembly Line Worker?

AspectLight ManufacturingAssembly Line Worker
CredentialsMinimal; often requires high school diploma or equivalentMinimal; typically high school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, involving various manufacturing processesFactories, assembly stations, repetitive tasks on production lines
Industry UsageManufacturing sectors like electronics, textiles, plasticsPrimarily in automotive, electronics, and consumer goods industries

Light Manufacturing involves a broad range of production activities with varied processes, while Assembly Line Workers focus on repetitive tasks assembling products on a conveyor. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in factory settings, but Light Manufacturing covers a wider scope of manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges faced in a light manufacturing role, and how can new employees overcome them?

In light manufacturing, employees often encounter challenges such as adapting to repetitive tasks, maintaining attention to detail, and meeting production deadlines. It can also be demanding to quickly learn the safe and efficient use of various machinery or tools. New hires can overcome these challenges by seeking guidance from experienced team members, taking advantage of training opportunities, and staying organized to manage workloads. Open communication with supervisors about workflow concerns and a proactive approach to learning can also help new employees succeed in this environment.

What is light manufacturing?

Light manufacturing refers to the production of small or lightweight goods that typically require less capital investment and energy than heavy industry. Products made in light manufacturing facilities often include electronics, clothing, household items, and consumer goods. These operations usually have less environmental impact and are more flexible in terms of location compared to heavy manufacturing. Light manufacturing jobs may involve assembly, packaging, quality control, and machine operation. The work environment is often cleaner and less physically demanding than in heavy manufacturing industries.
What are popular job titles related to Light Manufacturing jobs in Wisconsin? For Light Manufacturing jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Light Manufacturing jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Light Manufacturing jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Light Manufacturing job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,375 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer Fabrication

MPE-Inc

Sturtevant, WI โ€ข On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

At MPE, we're dedicated to making a difference in the world through cutting-edge medical technology. Our mission is to be the global leader in design, engineering, and manufacturing solutions for the medical and technology industries — creating impactful solutions that improve lives, and fostering an environment where our team members can thrive, grow, and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in the medical field.

A better career for you. Creating medical technology for all.

Why This Role

Join our fabrication engineering team and own real process ownership from day one. As our Manufacturing Engineer, Fabrication, you'll design and optimize the metal fabrication processes — laser cutting, press brake, welding, and more — that go into building medical device assemblies. This isn't a "shadow someone for a year" role: with 2+ years of process or manufacturing engineering experience in fabrication, you'll be trusted to program processes, lead technical conversations with customers, and drive real improvements in how we build.

You'll work in a low-volume, high-mix environment, which means variety — you won't be optimizing the same process for years on end. You'll touch new parts, new challenges, and new problems to solve on a regular basis, backed by a team that will invest in growing your skills further.

What You'll Do

Process Design & Programming

  • Program and optimize metal fabrication and machining processes for subassemblies used in medical device electro-mechanical assemblies
  • Convert 3D models and drawings into flat patterns, including bend deductions and allowances
  • Design, program, and help procure the tools, tooling, fixtures, and gauges that make fabrication processes controlled and repeatable

Process Documentation & Control

  • Build and maintain work instructions, process flows, quality checklists, and technical drawings
  • Establish PFMEA-aligned process controls to support successful product launches and design transfers
  • Define ERP BOM structures and develop assembly documentation aligned with GMP requirements

Validation & Troubleshooting

  • Provide hands-on technical support and troubleshooting during prototype builds, production, and tooling
  • Support process validation activities, including IQ/OQ/PQ as needed

Customer & Team Interface

  • Serve as a technical point of contact for customers during product transfers, tolerance reviews, and manufacturability discussions
  • Train and mentor fabrication and quality personnel on established processes
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives that boost efficiency and reduce cost
What You Bring

Required

  • Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience
  • 2+ years of experience in a process or manufacturing engineering role within fabrication, with exposure to laser cutting, welding, and/or press brake
  • Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks, ProE, AutoCAD, or similar)
  • Ability to read and create engineering drawings and technical specifications
  • Comfort with hand/power tools and precision measurement instruments
  • Experience with root cause and problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, 5 Whys, Fishbone, etc.)

Nice to Have

  • Working knowledge of ISO 9001 / 13485 quality systems
  • Familiarity with FDA regulations
  • Experience with 4i Blank and Form, Influent, or SigmaNest programming software
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification

Physical and Mental Demands

  • Frequent prolonged standing and sitting standing and walking in office, manufacturing, warehouse, or operational environments.
  • Occasional bending, reaching, climbing stairs, and light lifting (up to 40 lbs., if applicable).
  • Visual acuity to review data, analyze reports, and observe operational processes, with color perception required.
  • High level of analytical thinking and problem-solving to evaluate complex processes and identify root causes.
  • Ability to interpret data, metrics, and financial impact analyses to drive decisions.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with shifting priorities.
  • High attention to detail with strong organizational skills.
  • Effective communication skills, including presenting to customers and frontline teams.
  • Resilience and adaptability in dynamic operational settings.
  • Ability to receive and provide instructions in a positive manner.
  • Willing to work across all locations and alter hours as to ensure continuous support for projects and production as needed.
  • Flexible to change and possess a high degree level of integrity and “can do attitude”.

The mental and physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
Work Environment

  • Primarily office-based work with frequent presence in a production environment. While in the production facility, exposure to moderate to loud noise levels and non-climate-controlled conditions may occur.
Why Work With MPE?
  • Medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, and life insurance starting the first of the month after your hire date
  • 401(k) match and profit sharing
  • Vacation time from day one
  • 9 paid holidays for regular full-time employees
  • Paid training