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Line Operator Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Line Operator * Equipment Operator * Forklift Operator * Warehouse Associate ๐Ÿ“ข Apply Today! โœ… 1st & 2nd Shift Openings โœ… $21-$23/hr Starting Pay โœ… West Milwaukee, WI โœ… Immediate Interviews ...

Assistant Line Lead

Mount Pleasant, WI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

The Assistant Line Lead will perform roles of Assembly Operators, train new hires and internal employees, and assist the L10 Production Department as needed. Responsibilities * Perform roles and ...

In this vital role, you will be responsible for hanging, masking, packaging and moving parts through the powder coating line. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where precision and ...

Machine Operator

Random Lake, WI ยท On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Keep accurate records of production, machine settings, and downtime events in line with quality ... being operated and document line issues. * Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Quality Technician - Line B (VB)

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

... line to ensure they meet established quality standards and specifications. Your day is spent ... Check that production operators are using the correct tools for each task and that all tools are in ...

Forklift Operator, 2nd Shift

Belgium, WI ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Forklift Operator, 2nd Shift At Lakeside Foods and our family of companies, we're committed to ... Check that line has pallets and boxes/trays to start running. Complete a pallet ticket for each ...

Showing results 41-60

Line Operator information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do line operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for line operator in Milwaukee, WI is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a line operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Line Operator, you typically need a high school diploma, mechanical aptitude, and a keen attention to detail for monitoring production lines. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and often basic computer systems or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is important. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help set top performers apart. These skills ensure smooth production flow, minimize downtime, and uphold quality and safety standards.

What is the difference between Line Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectLine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in manufacturingHigh school diploma; certifications in machinery or safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, assembly areasFactories, machine rooms, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageManufacturing, food processing, automotiveManufacturing, industrial production, packaging
Job FocusOverseeing production line operations, quality checksOperating specific machinery, maintenance, troubleshooting

While both roles work in manufacturing environments, a Line Operator manages entire production lines, ensuring smooth operation and quality, whereas a Machine Operator focuses on operating and maintaining specific machinery within the production process.

What is a line operator?

A line operator works on a production line, ensuring product standards are met and filling packages or containers before shipping them out of the facility. As a line operator, the job duties you perform include conducting routine maintenance and calibration of all production line equipment and ensuring the quality of labeling and packaging. The qualifications needed for this career include job experience at a production facility or factory, strong physical endurance and skills, and a keen eye for detail.

What are some common challenges faced by line operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Line Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent production quality, meeting tight deadlines, and quickly resolving equipment malfunctions. Managing these effectively involves staying attentive to detail, following standard operating procedures, and communicating promptly with supervisors and maintenance teams when issues arise. Continuous training and teamwork are essential, as many production lines require coordination with colleagues to ensure smooth workflow and minimal downtime.
Infographic showing various Line Operator job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,187 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Packaging Line Operator - 1st Shift (Dry Powder Operations) - 4x10s M-Thurs

Fortress Nutrition, LLC

New Berlin, WI โ€ข On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Fortress Nutrition is growing-and we're looking for reliable, detail-oriented Packaging Line Operators to join our Dry Powder Operations team. This role is responsible for operating packaging equipment, completing real-time quality checks, and working closely with the production team to package products safely, accurately, and according to customer specifications.
If you enjoy hands-on work, take pride in accuracy, and work well in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, this is a great opportunity to build your skills while working a consistent 1st shift schedule with 3 day weekends.
Schedule: 1st Shift
  • Monday-Thursday: 6:00 AM-4:30 PM
  • Overtime and weekend work may be required based on production and business needs
What You'll Do
  • Set up, operate, and maintain packaging equipment and related machinery (fillers, sealers, x-ray systems, metal detectors, scales, coders, etc.)
  • Make equipment adjustments as needed to ensure products and packaging meet required specifications
  • Perform consistent, accurate quality checks (visual bag inspections, seal-integrity checks, coding verification, weight checks) throughout production
  • Complete Master Manufacturing Records (MMRs), production records, and quality documentation in real time following Good Documentation Practices
  • Continuously monitor equipment and product flow to identify and address faults, errors, or slowdowns
  • Act quickly to identify and address equipment issues or slowdowns
  • Report any/all production concerns to Production Supervisor or Lead promptly for resolution
  • Follow all food-safety requirements, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), safety procedures, and sanitation standards
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work area
  • Support team operations through overtime or weekend work when needed
  • Perform all other duties as assigned by leadership

What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 1+ years of experience in food manufacturing, with understanding/knowledge of food-safety and quality programs, including GMPs, handwashing, allergen controls, sanitation, and cross-contamination prevention
  • Ability to perform basic shop math
  • Ability to read, write, and communicate in English
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work as part of a team
  • Ability to work in an environment with food allergens, dry powder, dust, and wet conditions
  • Ability to work overtime and weekends as required by production or business needs
Must demonstrate a strong sense of urgency and remain actively engaged throughout the shift. This role requires continuous equipment monitoring, timely and accurate quality checks, and immediate response to faults or production concerns. Delays or inattention can affect product quality and stop production. Individuals who are not attentive, proactive, and fast-moving will not be successful in this role.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience operating high-speed packaging equipment in a manufacturing environment
  • Strong knowledge of GMPs, food safety, and quality standards
  • Previous machine operating experience
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 10 hours in a shift)
  • Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, pull, or move materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to safely work from a mezzanine workstation or scissor lift up to 20 feet high
  • Frequent use of hands to operate controls, tools, equipment, and packaging materials
  • Frequent reaching, bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and balancing
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle and operate tools, equipment and packaging materials

Pay & Benefits
  • $19.00 - $20.00+ per hour (based on experience and qualifications)
  • Double pay for hours worked after 50 hours in a workweek
  • Weekend work is paid at double pay
Benefits Include:
  • PTO Package with Carryover Option
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental & Vision (Affordable Family Coverage)
  • HSA with Company Contributions
  • Company-paid Life, AD&D, Short- & Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) with strong company match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Referral Bonuses
  • And more

Ready to Apply?
Email your resume to careers@fortressllc.com
Please ensure your resume is up to date. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.
Fortress Nutrition is an equal opportunity employer.