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Machine Helper Jobs in Sun Prairie, WI (NOW HIRING)

Every day, you help turn ideas into impact using science, technology, and creativity to tackle real ... machine, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical. Ability to effectively present ...

Every day, you help turn ideas into impact using science, technology, and creativity to tackle real ... machine, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical. Ability to effectively present ...

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Machine Helper information

See Sun Prairie, WI salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Sun Prairie, WI is $16.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine helper?

Machine Helpers are workers who assist machine operators in manufacturing or production settings. They are responsible for supporting the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery, as well as ensuring materials are loaded correctly and finished products are removed efficiently. Their duties often include cleaning equipment, monitoring machine performance, and helping with minor repairs or adjustments. Machine Helpers play a vital role in keeping production lines running smoothly and safely.

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

To excel as a Machine Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and possibly forklift or OSHA certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe and efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and contribute to a productive work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by machine helpers in a manufacturing environment and how can they be addressed?

Machine Helpers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with fast-paced production lines, handling repetitive tasks, and ensuring safety around heavy machinery. To address these, it's important to stay attentive, follow safety protocols, and communicate effectively with machine operators and supervisors. Developing good organizational habits and being proactive about machine maintenance can also help prevent breakdowns and maintain efficiency. Training and teamwork are key for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Machine Helper vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine HelperMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; often additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing and constructionPrimarily in manufacturing, production, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist machine operators, prepare materials, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, monitor production, ensure safety and quality

In summary, a Machine Helper assists Machine Operators by preparing materials and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators are responsible for running and managing machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and required skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine jobs in Sun Prairie, WI?

The most popular types of Machine jobs in Sun Prairie, WI are:

What cities near Sun Prairie, WI are hiring for Machine Helper jobs?

Cities near Sun Prairie, WI with the most Machine Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Sun Prairie, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,311 per year, or $17 per hour.

Machine Operator-Watertown, Wisconsin

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Cambridge, WI • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Illinois Tool Works rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

180th of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Looking for more than just another manufacturing job? We are looking for dependable, mechanically minded individuals who want the opportunity to learn a skilled manufacturing trade and build a long-term career.
Our Machine Operator position is open to all levels of experience and is in cold heading and thread rolling. If you have experience in Assembly, CNC, Press Operator or other manufacturing experience, we encourage you to apply. Previous cold heading or thread rolling experience is not required. If you have experience working in a manufacturing environment, enjoy working with machinery, take pride in producing quality work, and are willing to learn, we are willing to train you.
You'll work alongside experienced team members who will teach you how to set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain specialized equipment used to manufacture precision metal fasteners.
1st and 2nd Shift positions available - 2nd Shift - Enjoy a 3-Day Weekend!
Our 2nd shift position is a 4-day workweek! Our 2nd shift team works four 10-hour days, Monday through Thursday, 2:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m., giving you Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off during a regular workweek. When additional overtime is available or needed, it is typically scheduled for Friday afternoons, helping you earn extra hours while still leaving much of your weekend open for family, friends, hobbies, and activities outside of work. You will also enjoy a robust shift premium on second shift.
What You'll Do
As you learn and develop in the position, your responsibilities will include:
  • Learn to set up and operate cold heading and/or thread rolling equipment.
  • Select, install, and align dies, tooling, guides, and machine components.
  • Load coils of metal wire or rod and properly feed material into production equipment.
  • Adjust machine settings and tooling to produce parts within required specifications and tolerances.
  • Monitor machines during production and identify potential equipment problems or product defects.
  • Perform routine machine maintenance, including cleaning and oiling equipment.
  • Inspect your work and help ensure products meet our quality standards.
  • Complete required production, quality, and safety documentation.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, including handling scrap and general housekeeping.
  • Follow established safety procedures and work practices.
  • Work with experienced operators and other team members to continuously improve processes, quality, and productivity.

What We're Looking For
You do not need previous cold heading or thread rolling experience to be considered. If you have experience in a manufacturing environment including assembly, CNC operators, Punch Press Operators, you are encouraged to apply. We're looking for someone who brings a good work ethic, mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn.
Qualifications include:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Previous manufacturing, machine operating, production, or similar industrial experience preferred.
  • Mechanical aptitude and an interest in learning how machinery and tooling work.
  • Ability to read and follow safety rules, work instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to complete routine production and quality documentation.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
  • Safety-focused mindset.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Continuous improvement mindset.

Previous experience operating single- or multi-die header machines, thread rolling equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery is a plus, but it is not required.
Learn a Skilled Manufacturing Trade
This isn't a position where we expect you to know everything on your first day. You'll have the opportunity to learn specialized cold heading and thread rolling equipment while working with experienced employees who know the equipment and processes.
We're looking for someone who wants to learn, develop their skills, and become a valuable long-term member of our manufacturing team.
We have an amazing benefits package which includes:
  • Health Insurance with discounts for Wellness program participation
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Short and Long Term Disability
  • Robust Vacation, Holiday and Paid Sick Time
  • Generous 401(k) program starting Day 1
  • Charitable Giving Programs with Company Match

Compensation Information:
You can expect to receive competitive wages for Machine Operator. Starting wage is dependent on experience.
$20.00 - $30.00 per hour based on experience
ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues' unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.
As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

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About Illinois Tool Works

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ITW is a global industrial company built around a differentiated and proprietary business model. The company’s seven industry-leading segments leverage the unique ITW Business Model to drive solid growth with best-in-class margins and returns in markets where highly innovative, customer-focused solutions are required. From state-of-the-art dishwashers, ovens and refrigerators in restaurants and hotels, to automobile components inside vehicles all over the world ... the products we manufacture and the solutions we design are all around us. The buildings where we live and work are built with ITW construction and welding products, and our ITW test & measurement solutions help to ensure the quality and safety of millions of products. ITW’s dedicated colleagues around the world thrive in the company’s decentralized and entrepreneurial culture. Our leaders have deep expertise in the ITW Business Model and leverage it to deliver superior performance and value to our customers.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Glenview, IL, US

Year founded

1912