1

Production Machine Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator - Laser Production This role focuses on operating laser equipment to produce high-quality medical products, including biowearable sensors such as glucose monitors, wound care items ...

Machine Operator

Chippewa Falls, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... Inspects the quality of bottles during production, packaging and labeling. * Perform audits ...

Machine Operator

Chippewa Falls, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... Inspects the quality of bottles during production, packaging and labeling. * Perform audits ...

Machine Operator

Sauk City, WI

$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 ...

Machine Operator I- PM

Elroy, WI

$19.25 - $23/hr

Machine Operator Department: Operations FLSA: Hourly Non-Exempt Position Description ... Sets-up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.

Machine Operator I-AM

Elroy, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

Machine Operator Department: Operations FLSA: Hourly Non-Exempt Position Description ... Sets-up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.

Machine Operator

Random Lake, WI

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Keep accurate records of production, machine settings, and downtime events in line with quality ... being operated and document line issues. * Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Production Machine Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do production machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for production machine operator in Wisconsin is $18.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a production machine operator?

A production machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring manufacturing equipment to ensure efficient production. They perform quality checks, troubleshoot machine issues, and follow safety protocols, often working with tools and machinery in a factory environment. Basic technical skills and adherence to safety standards are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Production 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 basic computer-controlled equipment (such as CNC machines) is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production output in a manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Production Machine Operator vs Machine Setter?

AspectProduction Machine OperatorMachine Setter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, operating machineryManufacturing floors, setting up and adjusting machines
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly linesCommon in manufacturing, equipment setup
Primary FocusOperating machines to produce goodsPreparing and adjusting machines for production

While both roles work in manufacturing environments, Production Machine Operators focus on running machinery during production, whereas Machine Setters prepare and calibrate machines before operation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or chemical manufacturing, where operators may earn higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements. Roles involving advanced skills, certifications, or operating complex machinery tend to offer higher salaries, with some positions exceeding $70,000 annually. Experience, technical training, and working in high-demand sectors contribute to higher compensation for machine operators.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Production machine operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, overtime, and working in high-demand industries such as manufacturing or energy. These roles often require technical skills, safety certifications, and the ability to operate complex machinery, but typically do not require a college degree.

What is a production machine operator?

A production machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining manufacturing equipment to produce goods efficiently and safely. They typically monitor machines, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot issues, often requiring knowledge of mechanical systems and safety protocols. The role may involve working in shifts and following strict production standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Production Machine Operators and how can they be overcome?

Production Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing machine downtime, maintaining high-quality output under tight deadlines, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Staying proactive with regular maintenance, following safety protocols, and communicating effectively with maintenance teams are key strategies to overcome these issues. Additionally, being adaptable and open to ongoing training helps operators keep up with technological advancements and improve efficiency on the production line.

What are Production Machine Operators?

Production Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for running, monitoring, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing and production processes. They set up machines, ensure they operate efficiently, and perform quality checks on products. Operators may also troubleshoot minor mechanical issues and keep records of production output. Their role is vital for ensuring that products are made efficiently, safely, and to quality standards.
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Production Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Production Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Production Machine Operator jobs in WI? For Production Machine Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Production Machine Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,654 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Production Machine Operator (PMO)

Production Machine Operator (PMO)

Stoughton Trailers

Stoughton, WI

$16 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Stoughton Trailers rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

412th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

  • Operate all types of tools and machines necessary to the job, such as forming, punching, cutting and other common sheet metal machines, including a variety of hand tools.
  • Use blueprints to select appropriate tooling and operate machinery to produce the required quality of product needed.
  • Utilize existing control programs on various machines in order to create parts.
  • Select the proper thickness and gauge of material as specified by shop documents.
  • Perform visual inspection of parts before and after each operation by following the required inspection procedures and ensuring all parts meet acceptable quality standards.
  • Secure and band material together when transporting parts.
  • Understand the routing process and be able to retrieve/input information on a computer.
  • Perform all assigned tasks in a safe, efficient and highly productive manner according to company policy.
  • Contribute to the team effort to produce a quality product in a highly safe and productive manner.
  • Attend scheduled work hours on a regular and timely basis. Maintain good attendance.
  • Ability to work mandatory overtime. Other duties may be assigned by the company.

Education: High school diploma or equivalent, based on education and work experience.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Ability to accurately use precision measuring equipment including tape measures, micrometers, squares, and protractors.
  • Must be able to read blueprints.
  • Must have basic math skills and ability to convert decimals to fractions and fractions to decimals.
  • Must be able to operate computerized, automated equipment.

Training:

  • Orientation
  • Company provided training may include but not limited to:
    • LOTO Training
    • Powered Pallet Jacks/Walkie/Barrel Lifters Training

What Stoughton Trailers employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom