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Operating Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Experience operating programmable wire cutters * Flexibility to assist with other machines or positions as needed Preferred Education and Experience: * High school diploma or equivalent * Prior ...

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Operating Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$36.3K

$85.8K

$136.3K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Wisconsin is $85,824.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $94,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Operating Engineers?

Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, commonly used on construction sites and in other industrial settings. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of this equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and sometimes assisting with repairs. Operating Engineers play a critical role in the successful completion of construction and infrastructure projects by helping move materials, clear land, and perform tasks that require mechanical power.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Engineer, you need expertise in operating, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, often backed by a high school diploma, technical training, and relevant licenses or certifications. Familiarity with control systems, heavy equipment, and safety protocols—such as OSHA standards—is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and help maintain a secure work environment.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOSHA certifications, state licenses, technical trainingOSHA certifications, technical/vocational training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, large facilitiesBuildings, manufacturing plants, facilities maintenance
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utilities, manufacturingFacilities management, manufacturing, commercial buildings

Operating Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often share certifications and work in industrial or large facility environments. Operating Engineers focus on operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment, while Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and preventive maintenance of building systems. Both roles are essential for facility operations, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

What are some common challenges Operating Engineers face when managing multiple pieces of equipment on a job site?

Operating Engineers often juggle the operation and maintenance of several types of heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, which requires strong multitasking and organizational skills. A common challenge is coordinating equipment use efficiently to avoid downtime and bottlenecks, particularly on busy construction sites with tight schedules. Additionally, they must remain vigilant about safety protocols and equipment inspections to prevent accidents or mechanical failures. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure a smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin? For Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in WI? For Operating Engineer jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,824 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Wire EDM/Vollmer Setup Operator

Wire EDM/Vollmer Setup Operator

SEEK Careers Staffing

New Berlin, WI • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Wire EDM/ Vollmer Setup Operator

Position – Wire EDM/ Vollmer Setup Operator

Job Location – New Berlin, WI

Starting Date – Immediate

Employment Term – Direct Hire

Employment Type – Full-Time

Work Hours (Shift) – 1st Shift (6:00am – 2:00pm)

Starting Pay – Depends on Experience, $18-$22/hr

Benefits – Medical, Vision, Dental, 401(K), Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Referral Bonus

Required Education – High School Diploma/GED

Required Experience – At least 3+ years of experience


Responsibilities

-Set up and operate Wire EDM/Vollmer machines (FANUC/Sodick)

-Monitor machine and make adjustments as needed

-Load/unload work pieces, install and align tooling, and perform adjustments as needed

-Develop and optimize CNC programs for machines based on engineering drawings and specifications


Qualifications

-HS Diploma/GED required

-3+ years experience as a Wire EDM Operator/Programmer in a manufacturing environment, specifically with FANUC/Sodick

-Knowledge of machine shop practices, techniques, operations, as well as familiarity with CNC programs/engineer drawings

-Basic math, logical reasoning, and problem solving skills


Please send your resume to waukesha@seekcareers.com. Call/text at 262-798-3036 or apply online at www.seekcareers.com.

Keywords: Wire EDM, CNC, setup operator, New Berlin


About SEEK Careers/Staffing

You are a person with unique skills, experience and education.When you want to be heard and when you want to be matched with great career opportunities that are right for you, you can count on SEEK Careers/Staffing, Inc.Since 1971, our professional staffing consultants have been Servicing Your Success®.You’ll find that the process is thorough and that your experience is personalized.

SEEK Careers/Staffing is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability or handicap, genetic, military status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

ASK ABOUT OUR $100 SIGN-ON/REFERRAL BONUS PROGRAM!


SEEK Careers/Staffing logo

About SEEK Careers/Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SEEK was founded in 1971 by Carol Ann Schneider, CPC, SPHR, a Grafton, Wisconsin resident. The name SEEK was derived from a combination of initials in Carol’s family. It was a tradition that names derived in such a way would bring success to that person or business. So, from Carol’s home, SEEK assignment employees were sent to serve the temporary needs of Ozaukee County business people. The business grew and was eventually incorporated in 1975. The Grafton office expanded from Carol’s home to several other buildings in town before finally settling in their current location on Opportunity Drive in Grafton in 1997. Currently, there are 19 total branch offices with 16 located throughout Wisconsin and a recent acquisition has expanded SEEK’s portfolio to 3 branch offices in the Twin Cities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Grafton, WI, US

Year founded

1971