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Process Operator Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Hydrite

Process Operator - Day Shift

Cottage Grove, WI · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - PROCESS OPERATOR The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the operation of chemical processes (adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rate ...

Hydrite

Process Operator - Day Shift

Cottage Grove, WI · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - PROCESS OPERATOR The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the operation of chemical processes (adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rate ...

Hydrite

Process Operator - Night Shift

Cottage Grove, WI · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - PROCESS OPERATOR The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the operation of chemical processes (adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rate ...

Hydrite

Process Operator - Night Shift

Cottage Grove, WI

$18 - $22.75/hr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - PROCESS OPERATOR The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the operation of chemical processes (adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rate ...

Hydrite

Process Operator - Day Shift

Cottage Grove, WI · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - PROCESS OPERATOR The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the operation of chemical processes (adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rate ...

Hydrite

Process Operator - Night Shift

Cottage Grove, WI

$18 - $22.75/hr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - PROCESS OPERATOR The primary purpose of this position is to be responsible for the operation of chemical processes (adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rate ...

Phelps Industries LLC

Processing Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Processing operators perform different jobs depending on skill and training level.Essential ... in process (WIP) bins making sure not to mix products and properly labeling WIP bins. Ensure ...

Phelps Industries LLC

Processing Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Processing operators perform different jobs depending on skill and training level. Essential ... in process (WIP) bins making sure not to mix products and properly labeling WIP bins. * Ensure ...

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All JobsProcess Operator JobsProcess Operator Jobs in Madison, WI

Process Operator information

See Madison, WI salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in Madison, WI is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process operator?

Process Operators are professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the machinery and systems that produce goods in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, and oil and gas. Their duties include monitoring equipment, adjusting controls to maintain quality and safety, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during production. They play a critical role in ensuring production runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely, often working as part of a larger operations team. Process Operators must adhere to strict safety protocols and may be required to document production data or perform routine maintenance.

What does a process operator do?

A process operator is a skilled industrial professional who works as part of a team, or individually, to manage a safe and effective production process within a manufacturing plant, facility, or refinery. Process operators are charged with monitoring the equipment, machinery, and instruments within the facility and troubleshooting when issues arise. As a process operator, it is important to inspect equipment and maintain records of all updates, repairs, and replacements.

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

To thrive as a Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial processes, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with control systems like DCS/SCADA, equipment maintenance, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation of machinery, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges faced by process operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Process Operators often work in rotating shifts to ensure continuous plant operation, which can present challenges such as adjusting to changing sleep schedules and managing fatigue. To address these issues, operators are encouraged to maintain healthy sleep habits, communicate openly with team members about workload distribution, and utilize scheduled breaks effectively. Many facilities also offer training on shift work management and provide support resources to help employees adapt, ensuring both safety and productivity are maintained.

What is the difference between Process Operator vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectProcess OperatorMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or trade licenses often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, or industrial facilities operating machinery and equipmentIndustrial or manufacturing settings focusing on equipment repair and maintenance
Job FocusMonitoring, controlling, and optimizing production processesMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting machinery and equipment

While both roles work in industrial environments, Process Operators focus on running and controlling production processes, whereas Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in manufacturing and industrial sectors.

How much do process operators earn?

Process operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in facilities with shift work or hazardous environments.

Is it hard to be a process operator?

Being a process operator involves monitoring and controlling industrial equipment, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but with proper training and certifications, it is manageable for many individuals.
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What job categories do people searching Process Operator jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Operator jobs in Madison, WI are:

Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,326 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Production/Process Operator

Aztalan Bio LLC

Johnson Creek, WI • On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Join a team that helps produce renewable fuel for the future. We are hiring a Production Operator to support our ethanol plant operations, where safety, reliability, and continuous improvement are at the core of everything we do. This position works a 2-2-3 rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, alternating between day and night shifts every six weeks, and plays a key role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations. We offer competitive pay of $27 - $33/hr and a strong benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance; additional ancillary plans; a 401(k) with company match; paid time off; and sick time.
What We Offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Sick Time
  • Monthly Bonuses
  • Additional voluntary benefits
  • Many more employee perks

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Monitor the operation of the plant constantly to monitor production and quality, anticipating and solving problems in a timely manner, and identifying opportunities for improvement.
  • Troubleshoot, anticipate and correct problems associated with plant operations. May need to inspect different areas of the plant to locate problems.
  • Review the slurry and fermentation process to ensure accuracy and the highest quality of product. (Slurry Operator)
  • Review the distillation and evaporation process to ensure accuracy and the highest quality of the product. Certification of the ethanol before it can be transported. (D&E Operator)
  • Document and monitor process variables, sample data and routine tasks as required for position, to ensure plant operations are maintained within operating parameters.
  • Monitor use and inventories of process chemicals and supplies.
  • Communicate with the lab to anticipate or remedy any problems to ensure the highest quality and optimize the facility's efficiency.
  • Communicate with the maintenance department to anticipate or fix problems in a timely manner. Prepare equipment to ensure it is safe for maintenance/contractors to perform scheduled work.
  • Handle chemicals according to the MSDS safety sheets.
  • Cross train with other operators to assure adequate coverage during unexpected interruptions in the plant. May need to watch the boards when a supervisor has to step away.
  • Participate in projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.
  • Perform scheduled Operations Work Requests as requested by Supervisor or Plant Management.
  • Participate in safety, health, and environmental programs (LOTO-lock out tag out, Safe Work Permit, FSMA-Food Safety Modernization Act). Participate in programs and procedures required to ensure safe work practices and plant cleanliness.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to maintain a safe, reliable, and consistent operation.

Who is Aztalan Bio?
Located outside Jefferson, WI - Aztalan Bio is a biorefinery that utilizes a dry front-end fractionation system which separates corn components (starch, protein, germ) before the distillation process, leading to a wider range of products and potentially higher efficiency - producing corn oil, ethanol, corn germ, bran, and distillers' grains. These outputs support a wide range of markets, including food production, animal nutrition, and renewable energy.
The plant has been in operation since 1898, first as a malting company and then, in 2006, was converted to ethanol production, becoming Wisconsin's largest ethanol operation. Over the coming years, Aztalan Bio will undergo a similar transformation to its sister facility, Pannonia Bio in Hungary, to create a next-generation biorefinery tailored to Wisconsin's agricultural strengths and diversity.
Building on more than a century of history, this next chapter is about investing in people, progress, and community. With the revitalization of this historic plant and the hiring of a new workforce, we are creating opportunities for local employees while reinforcing generations of partnership with farmers.
Aztalan Bio is owned by ClonBio Group who is family-owned and invests in their people for long-term success.
Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • 0-2 Years' relevant experience.
  • Associate degree in Process Technology or equivalent is preferred.
  • Experience in an Ethanol Processing plant preferred.
  • Able to read, understand and follow standard operating procedures for operation of plant and associated equipment.
  • Basic computer operation and data entry skills.
  • Excellent communication, time management, multi-tasking, and problem skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:
  • Noise level in the work environment is moderate. Occasional exposure to high noise levels.
  • Employee may be exposed to work near moving mechanical parts.
  • Occasional exposure to chemicals used in the process.
  • Humid conditions and outdoor weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.
  • Personal Protective Equipment such as safety glasses, steel-toed boots, flame-resistant clothing, and hearing protection will regularly be required (or may be required).
  • Regularly required to walk, sit, talk, and hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and may occasionally be required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and may occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • The employee will be required to do some walking/climbing stairs and occasional use of ladders.
  • Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Aztalan Bio LLC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Salary Description
$27 - $33 per hour

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