Machine Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Stoughton Trailers is a trusted, industry leading trailer manufacturer with strong Wisconsin roots and a focus on automation, innovation, safety, and manufacturing excellence. Our advanced manufacturing systems are critical to achieving production targets, maintaining quality, and supporting future growth.

Position Details:

Schedule: 1st Shift 5:30 am to 4 pm and 2nd Shift 4:30 pm to 3 am 
Shift: Monday - Thursday 
Overtime: Required as business needs

What You’ll Do -

You will lead advanced manufacturing operations, support production teams, and ensure equipment reliability, efficiency, and safety.

Advanced Manufacturing Equipment Leadership:

• Ensure automated manufacturing equipment is operational and productionready at start of shift
• Navigate and operate HMI controls for robotic and automated systems
• Lead troubleshooting of part fitup, system function, and machine performance issues
• Assist system teams with loading parts and assemblies into automated lines
• Communicate equipment status and issues with Line Leads and Production Supervisors
• Coordinate technical support needs with Engineers, Maintenance, and vendors

Programming, Setup & Technical Support:

• Lead programming, operation, and maintenance of assigned manufacturing equipment
• Troubleshoot machine programming, logic, and function issues
• Set up and operate specified machining centers and automated systems
• Work from CAD models, solid models, and blueprints
• Program, validate, and support new products, prototypes, and R&D parts
• Engage external suppliers or OEMs when required to resolve complex issues

Production Support & Continuous Improvement:

• Monitor and report key performance indicators (KPIs), including:
• Ontime delivery
• Quality
• Takt time
• Machine utilization
• Support adherence to production schedules
• Conduct quality checks of parts and assemblies
• Perform time studies, parts analysis, and productivity evaluations
• Recommend and implement process, programming, and equipment improvements
• Optimize production efficiency by adjusting machine settings and workflows

Training, Leadership & Collaboration:

• Train new production employees on equipment operation and system functionality
• Provide ongoing technical guidance to tenured production personnel
• Facilitate operator preventive maintenance tasks and escalate issues as needed
• Assist Machine Operators with equipment handling and setup
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, and Maintenance teams
• Maintain accurate equipment logs and documentation

Safety, Maintenance & Professional Expectations:

• Perform all work in a safe, efficient, timely, accurate, and highly productive manner
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and safety requirements
• Perform minor repairs and report breakdowns promptly
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas
• Wear required PPE and comply with all regulations
• Maintain dependable attendance and support mandatory overtime
• Perform other duties as assigned

What You Bring -

Education:

• High school diploma required
• Associate degree in a focused technology field preferred, but not required

Experience & Certifications:

• Experience in advanced manufacturing, automation, or machine operations
• Robotics or programming certifications (preferred, not required)
• Welding certification (preferred, not required)
• Crane certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong experience with hand tools and measuring devices
• Intermediate troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
• Experience operating or supporting:
• Laser cutting systems
• Automated bending/forming cells
• Robotics and robotic welding systems
• Mechatronic systems
• Experience with CAD and production programming software
• Knowledge of digital manufacturing tools (OEE, condition monitoring, smart technology)
• Intermediate computer skills
• Intermediate understanding of electrical and hydraulic systems
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including:
• Welding and assembly
• Cutting, forming, and part fitup
• Mechanical clamping systems
• Basic math skills for inspection and measurement
• Ability to operate overhead and jib cranes with hoists
• Strong safety mindset
• Strong communication skills and ability to lead and train others
• Proven team player with leadership capability

Training & Development:

• TRUMPF University training
• Advanced Robotic Programming with Arc Welding
• Ongoing technical and safety training

Work Environment & Physical Expectations:

This position requires the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Work is performed in a manufacturing environment and requires standing for extended periods, repetitive lifting and loading of parts up to 50 lbs, wearing required PPE, and working around automated equipment. Overtime may be required. Additional details are outlined in the applicable Physical Demands Checklist.

Why This Role Matters -

The Manufacturing Technician II is a key contributor to Stoughton Trailers’ advanced manufacturing capabilities and production reliability. By leading equipment operation, training others, solving complex technical issues, and optimizing processes, this role helps drive efficiency, maintain quality, and support continuous improvement. It serves as a critical progression step toward senior manufacturing, automation, or engineering support roles.