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Machine Operator Jobs in Middleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

washingtonmills

Machine Operator

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator Position type: Full-Time, Hourly Location: Sun Prairie, WI Ask Yourself This... Do you enjoy working with your hands in a team-centric environment? Do you fix everything yourself?

washingtonmills

Machine Operator

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator Position type: Full-Time, Hourly Location: Sun Prairie, WI Ask Yourself This... Do you enjoy working with your hands in a team-centric environment? Do you fix everything yourself?

washingtonmills

Machine Operator

Sun Prairie, WI

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator Position type: Full-Time, Hourly Location: Sun Prairie, WI Ask Yourself This... Do you enjoy working with your hands in a team-centric environment? Do you fix everything yourself?

Washington Mills

Machine Operator

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator Position type: Full-Time, Hourly Location: Sun Prairie, WI Ask Yourself This... Do you enjoy working with your hands in a team-centric environment? Do you fix everything yourself?

Career Search

Machine Operator

Portage, WI · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Set up, start, and operate machinery to mix, extrude, discharge, or handle materials according to operating procedures ensuring strands of material are continuous and ensure all controls for ...

Service 1st Staffing

Machine Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS - FAST HIRING PROCESS Looking for a hands-on job where you're actually working with machines--not just watching them run? We're hiring Machine Operators for immediate openings and ...

McFarlane's

Machine Operator

Sauk City, WI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The machine operator has knowledge of commonly used production machine operation concepts, practices and procedures and relies on pre-established guidelines to perform job. Under general supervision ...

Maxcess International

Machine Operator

Edgerton, WI

$23/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and mechanically inclined individual to join our team as a Machine Operator. Position Summary: We are seeking a reliable mechanically inclined person to operate ...

Maxcess International

Machine Operator

Edgerton, WI

$23/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and mechanically inclined individual to join our team as a Machine Operator. Position Summary: We are seeking a reliable mechanically inclined person to operate ...

Maxcess International

Machine Operator

Edgerton, WI · On-site

$23/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and mechanically inclined individual to join our team as a Machine Operator. Position Summary: We are seeking a reliable mechanically inclined person to operate ...

ITEC

Winding Machine Operator

Oregon, WI · On-site

$41K - $45K/yr

Winding Machine Operator Department: Pre-AssemblyMid-Central Electric is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Winding Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. This position is responsible ...

ITEC

Winding Machine Operator

WI · On-site

$41K - $45K/yr

Winding Machine Operator Department: Pre-Assembly Mid-Central Electric is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Winding Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. This position is responsible ...

Placon Corporation

Machine Operator - Nights

Madison, WI · On-site

$21.90 - $23.81/hr

Machine Operator - Nights We're looking for a dependable Machine Operator to join our Night Shift team. If you enjoy hands-on work, have strong mechanical aptitude, and want to grow in a fast-paced ...

Placon Corporation

Machine Operator - Nights

Madison, WI · On-site

$21.90 - $23.81/hr

Machine Operator - NightsWe're looking for a dependable Machine Operator to join our Night Shift team. If you enjoy hands‑on work, have strong mechanical aptitude, and want to grow in a ...

Demco

Machine Operator (2 Positions)

De Forest, WI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Manufacturing Machine Operators: Cutter Operator or Size Jacket Operator 1st Shift | Monday-Friday | 6:30 AM - 3:00 PMDeForest, WI Join the team that helps bring learning to life! Demco is looking ...

Demco, Inc.

Machine Operator (2 Positions)

De Forest, WI

$17 - $20.50/hr

Manufacturing Machine Operators: Cutter Operator or Size Jacket Operator 1st Shift | Monday-Friday | 6:30 AM - 3:00 PMDeForest, WI Join the team that helps bring learning to life! Demco is looking ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Middleton, WI

Machine Operator information

See Middleton, WI salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Middleton, WI is $18.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What is the work of a machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

What is a machine operator?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What do machine operators do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Middleton, WI? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Middleton, WI are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Middleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Middleton, WI are:
What cities near Middleton, WI are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Middleton, WI with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Middleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,961 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Machine Operator

washingtonmills

Sun Prairie, WI • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Machine Operator 

  

Position type:  Full-Time, Hourly

Location: Sun Prairie, WI

Ask Yourself This…

Do you enjoy working with your hands in a team-centric environment? Do you fix everything yourself? Are you driven to solve unique problems on process-integral equipment quickly and safely? Are you cool under pressure and excited by work that’s different every day? Then join us in Sun Prairie, WI!

 

What You’ll Do


The Machine Operator will run specific extrusion equipment and the associated cell machinery as well.  The Machine Operator is responsible for keeping the equipment supplied with extrusion feedstock, monitoring the operation of all cell equipment, and ensuring that the extruded product meets all appropriate quality specifications.  This person will work with the Production Mechanics and manufacturing management to solve any issues with machinery and products.  1st Shift: 5:30 am to 2:00 pm Monday through Friday

  • Supply feedstock to the extrusion equipment and ensure that a steady supply of material is available
  • Complete appropriate paperwork for each lot of production before it leaves the extrusion area
  • Accurately report daily extrusion totals for all designated lines
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment at all times

What You’ll Need


To be successful in this position, you must:

  • Possess a High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Having prior industrial experience is a plus.
  • Be willing to learn all equipment specific to the plant operations
  • Have a strong commitment to safety and work well in a team environment

Who We Are


Washington Mills is built on values that matter. Founded more than 150 years ago, we have earned our reputation as one of the world’s most trusted and reliable producers of abrasive, ceramic and refractory grains and powders. Serving thousands of customers and offering the broadest selection of abrasive grain and specialty electro-fused minerals in the market today, we constantly pursue growth in our products, our approach, and our people.  Our founding principles of honesty, integrity and reliability still guide our business today, and we are a proud community of hands-on problem solvers, committed to shaping the materials applications of the future.  With global distribution and sites located throughout North American and Europe, Washington Mills opens the door to a world of opportunity, creativity, and challenge.

Compensation


We proudly offer robust compensation and benefits packages, including:

  • Competitive pay, with opportunities to advance
  • World-class medical and dental plans
  • Employer-sponsored retirement plan
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Paid vacation and generous holiday time
  • Family-friendly personal leave policies

Interested? We want to hear from you! Visit washingtonmills.com/careers and tell us why you’re the candidate we’re looking for.

The job responsibilities described above indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to include a comprehensive inventory of all duties and responsibilities for this job. Job duties and responsibilities are subject to change based on evolving business needs and conditions.

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