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Operator Helper Jobs in Wausau, WI (NOW HIRING)

Plant Helper

Kronenwetter, WI · On-site

$46.75/hr

Auxiliary Operator II * Conveyor Operator * Plant Shift Maintenance Helper * Be a member of plant teams such as operations, coal & yard, mechanics, instrument & electrician, lab, stockroom, ad hoc ...

Press Operator

Antigo, WI · On-site

$22.53 - $26.35/hr

Job Title: Press Operator This role operates industrial press machines to produce high-quality ... Union environment experience is helpful but not required. Why Work Here? The company offers ...

We?re eager to hear about your PASSION, your STORY, and how you can bring your EXPERTISE to help us make an impact.From your PASSION to oursMachine Operators are responsible for operating packaging ...

... to help us make an impact. From your PASSION to ours Machine Operators are responsible for ... operating packaging filling machines and/or robotic equipment such as a palletizer, case erector or ...

Machine Operators in Schofield and Mosinee! We offer a starting wage of $19.00 per hour plus a $2 ... You'll set up and operate machinery, perform quality checks, and help keep production running ...

Forklift Operators

Schofield, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Forklift Operators Rediscover Your Passion at Crystal Finishing Systems! Are you ready to fall in ... Apply today to explore how Crystal Finishing Systems can help you rediscover your passion for work.

Forklift Operators

Mosinee, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Forklift Operators Rediscover Your Passion at Crystal Finishing Systems! Are you ready to fall in ... Apply today to explore how Crystal Finishing Systems can help you rediscover your passion for work.

Forklift Operators

Schofield, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Is comfortable operating forklifts and other equipment (experience with four-directional lifts or ... Apply today to explore how Crystal Finishing Systems can help you rediscover your passion for work.

Forklift Operators

Schofield, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Is comfortable operating forklifts and other equipment (experience with four-directional lifts or ... Apply today to explore how Crystal Finishing Systems can help you rediscover your passion for work.

Forklift Operators

Schofield, WI

$17 - $20/hr

Is comfortable operating forklifts and other equipment (experience with four-directional lifts or ... Apply today to explore how Crystal Finishing Systems can help you rediscover your passion for work.

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Showing results 1-20

Operator Helper information

See Wausau, WI salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Wausau, WI is $19.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator helper?

Operator Helpers assist machine operators, technicians, or skilled workers in manufacturing, construction, or production environments. Their duties often include preparing materials, maintaining equipment, cleaning work areas, and helping ensure smooth operation of machinery. They play a vital role in supporting workflow, reducing downtime, and keeping the workplace safe and efficient. Operator Helpers typically work under direct supervision and may advance to more specialized roles with experience.

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

To thrive as an Operator Helper, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, hand tools, and sometimes forklift certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are crucial soft skills for supporting operators and maintaining a safe work environment. These abilities ensure smooth production processes, minimize downtime, and contribute to overall workplace safety and efficiency.

What are some common challenges operator helpers face on the job, and how can they overcome them?

Operator Helpers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced environments, maintaining safety standards, and learning to operate different types of machinery. To overcome these challenges, it's important to be proactive in communicating with team members, strictly follow safety protocols, and seek out on-the-job training opportunities. Building strong relationships with experienced operators can also help new Operator Helpers gain valuable insights and hands-on experience, making it easier to navigate daily responsibilities and advance within the team.

What is the difference between Operator Helper vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator HelperEquipment Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings assisting equipment operatorsConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings operating heavy machinery
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors as support staffUsed in similar sectors but with responsibility for operating machinery
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level support roles in machinery operationLearning about operating heavy equipment and related roles

The main difference between an Operator Helper and an Equipment Operator is that the Helper assists with supporting tasks and does not operate heavy machinery independently, while the Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and controlling machinery directly. Both roles are essential in industrial and construction environments, but they differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Wausau, WI?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Wausau, WI are:

What cities near Wausau, WI are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities near Wausau, WI with the most Operator Helper job openings:

Plant Helper

WEC Energy Group

Kronenwetter, WI • On-site

$46.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


WEC Energy Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Wisconsin Public Service Corp, a subsidiary of WEC Energy Group, is seeking a Plant Helper at the Weston Power Plant located in Kronenwetter, Wisconsin. This position is represented by Local No. 420 IUOE.

Job Summary

The Plant Helpers provide support for plant activities and assists plant teams in improving the Weston Plant process of converting fuel to energy.  

This position ensures continuous generation of electricity by operating, monitoring, and maintaining equipment within design specifications, by using appropriate procedures and policies including safely analyzing, installing, maintaining, calibrating, and repairing plant equipment.   Equipment includes all that is needed within the fossil plant electricity generation supply chain.

Job Responsibilities
  • Perform duties as needed by plant teams dependent on skill level and capability.  This position will accept the training necessary to fill the following positions at a minimum:
    • Auxiliary Operator II
    • Conveyor Operator
    • Plant Shift Maintenance Helper
  • Be a member of plant teams such as operations, coal & yard, mechanics, instrument & electrician, lab, stockroom, ad hoc, etc.
  • Provide assistance or work without assistance in job areas when sufficient knowledge and training are attained
Minimum Qualifications
  • Technical Diploma in electrical, instrument, mechanical, or power plant related field
    OR
  • 2 years of operations experience in a power generation or heavy industrial environment that utilizes similar equipment and/or processes as a power generation facility plus a high school diploma or GED/HSED
    OR
  • 2 years of power plant or industrial maintenance experience plus a high school diploma or GED/HSED
    OR
  • 2 years of related military experience plus high school diploma or GED/HSED
Testing Requirements

POSS-C/MASS Combo

  • Plant Operator Selection System (POSS): Ability to read and understand technical material, ability to understand mechanical principles, skill in solving and manipulating mathematical relationships including word problems and algebra, ability to visualize the proper assembled form of an object, and speed and accuracy in reading tables and graphs
  • Maintenance Selection System (MASS): Ability to understand basic mechanical principles, visualize proper assembled form of objects, read and comprehend technical material; and skill in working basic mathematical problems

End Date: 08/26/2026 

Minimum Posting Range:  $33.88 

Maximum Posting Range:  $46.75 

The pay range reflects the minimum and maximum for the position at the time of posting and may be modified in the future. The starting salary/pay within the pay range will be based on several factors, as applicable, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, travel requirements, collective bargaining agreements, and business and organizational needs.  At WEC Energy Group, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role.

WEC Energy Group benefits

We reserve the right to modify the application deadline or discontinue accepting applications for any position if deemed necessary.
Learn more at Careers


WEC Energy Group will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1 with OPT or CPT, H-1, H-2, L-1, B, J or TN, or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

WEC Energy Group and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. As a result, all qualified applicants will receive equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected status. The Company also complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws that require it to take affirmative action.
EEO/AA policies and statements


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