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

Ontech Talent

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2nd & 3rd Shift Machine Technician Operators

Mazomanie, WI · On-site

$22.50/hr

Machine Technician Operator Location: Mazomanie, WI 2nd Shift 1:45-10PM (Includes $2.00/Shift ... The Machine Technician Trainee or Machine Tech 1 performs similar duties within a developmental ...

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Madison, WI salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Madison, WI is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator Trainee, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and basic computer systems or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel in fast-paced production environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing downtime, and maintaining workplace safety.

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

AspectMachine Operator TraineeMachine Operator
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma or equivalent; training provided on the jobTypically requires relevant certifications or licenses; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseFull operational environment, responsible for machine operation
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting and learning machine operation tasksOperating machinery independently, ensuring safety and efficiency

The main difference is that a Machine Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, often supervised and still acquiring skills, while a Machine Operator is fully responsible for operating machinery independently. Trainees focus on gaining experience, whereas operators perform the job routinely with established skills.

How to get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator trainee, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Completing on-the-job training or technical courses related to machinery operation and safety certifications can improve employment prospects. Familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for machine operator trainees or experienced machine operators can reach $700 a day, especially in specialized industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or working in remote or high-demand environments, and may involve overtime or shift work to achieve such earnings.

What are some common challenges Machine Operator Trainees face during their initial months on the job?

Machine Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as learning to operate complex machinery safely, adapting to fast-paced production environments, and mastering quality control procedures. Adjusting to shift work and understanding the importance of teamwork in a manufacturing setting can also take time. However, most employers provide hands-on training and mentorship to support new trainees as they build confidence and proficiency in their roles.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Machine operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training and certifications such as OSHA safety courses are provided. However, having basic skills in equipment operation, mechanical aptitude, and a valid driver's license can improve chances of employment; some employers may prefer candidates with related skills or certifications. Entry-level roles typically focus on training new operators to safely and effectively handle heavy machinery.

What is a machine operator trainee?

A machine operator trainee is an entry-level worker learning to operate manufacturing or industrial machinery under supervision. The role involves gaining skills in equipment operation, safety procedures, and maintenance, often requiring on-the-job training and sometimes certifications. Trainees typically work in manufacturing environments and develop technical proficiency for full machine operator positions.
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:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,115 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
1st Shift CNC Operator Trainee (Dept. 301)

1st Shift CNC Operator Trainee (Dept. 301)

MILWAUKEE VALVE

Prairie Du Sac, WI • On-site

$22.34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 1st Shift CNC Operator Trainee/or higher to join our Prairie Du Sac, WI team in Department 301. This position has a starting hourly wage of $22.34.
*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 consecutive year of employment. *
The regularly scheduled hours for this position are 7:00AM-3:30PM, 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.
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
Modern Machining Center Tour
Employee Testimonial Commercial
Summary: During the approximate 90-day training period the CNC Operator Trainee will be required and responsible for learning the safe operation of CNC machines, how to maintain operations during production runs, obtain general knowledge and ability to read, comprehend and interpret blueprint specifications and the skills to perform the inspection of machined parts by the use general measuring instruments.
Prior machining experience is not required. Personal hand tools and measuring instruments are required after successful training period. Other duties may be assigned.
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 help individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education:
  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
Language Skills:
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as:
    • Safety policies and rules
    • Operating and maintenance instructions
    • Procedure manuals
    • Ability to communicate effectively.
Reasoning Ability:
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding.
  • Thoroughly carry out instructions given in any form
  • Ability to deal effectively with routine problems and situations
Mathematical Skills
  • Basic math ability such as:
    • Addition
    • Subtraction
    • Multiplication
    • Division
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
    • Constantly stand and walk throughout the workday
    • Frequently use hands and arms to reach, grasp, manipulate, handle, or feel material
    • Constant use hands and fingers to grasp, pinch, pull, feel, handle, and manipulate parts and tools
    • Frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts
    • Occasional bending
    • Frequent lifting up to 40 lb. unassisted
    • Occasional lifting up to 70lbs unassisted.
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.
    • Frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles
    • Constant exposure to louder noise levels
Definitions: Constant (5-8 hrs./shift) Frequent (2-5 hrs./shift) Occasional (Up to 2 hrs./shift)

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