1

Senior Machine Operator Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Senior CNC Programmer

Richfield, WI ยท On-site

$42 - $56/hr

Senior CNC Programmer (3 & 5-Axis) Richfield, WI | Full-Time | 1st Shift (5:45 AM - 2:15 PM) | $42 ... Collaborate with machinists, operators, engineers, and manufacturing teams to improve processes and ...

Senior CNC Programmer

Richfield, WI ยท On-site

$42 - $56/hr

Senior CNC Programmer (3 & 5-Axis) Richfield, WI | Full-Time | 1st Shift (5:45 AM - 2:15 PM) | $42 ... Collaborate with machinists, operators, engineers, and manufacturing teams to improve processes and ...

Senior MLOps Engineer (Remote)

Menomonee Falls, WI ยท On-site

$104K - $144K/yr

About the Role As Senior MLOps Engineer, you will focus on supporting cross-functional teams in designing, deploying, and operating machine learning solutions while building scalable infrastructure ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Germantown, WI ยท On-site

$98K - $130K/yr

As a Senior Controls Engineer at MGS, you will be responsible for the design of industrial ... Develop machine HMI applications (Beckhoff or Ignition) for operator interaction, data collection ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Germantown, WI ยท On-site

$98K - $130K/yr

As a Senior Controls Engineer at MGS, you will be responsible for the design of industrial ... Develop machine HMI applications (Beckhoff or Ignition) for operator interaction, data collection ...

Senior Tooling Engineer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

Operating as a team of one, this role partners with New Product Introduction (NPI), Manufacturing ... Fabricate completed designs in MEC's machine shop using a full complement of manual and additive ...

Senior Tooling Engineer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

Operating as a team of one, this role partners with New Product Introduction (NPI), Manufacturing ... Fabricate completed designs in MEC's machine shop using a full complement of manual and additive ...

CNC Machinist III

Richfield, WI ยท On-site

$35/hr

... senior-level machinist responsible for independently programming, setting up, and ... operating CNC machine tools to produce complex components. This individual is capable of taking a ...

CNC Machinist III

Richfield, WI ยท On-site

$35/hr

... senior-level machinist responsible for independently programming, setting up, and ... operating CNC machine tools to produce complex components. This individual is capable of taking a ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Machine Operator information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$24.6K

$79.1K

$161.1K

How much do senior machine operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior machine operator in Milwaukee, WI is $79,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,900.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectSenior Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires more experience and sometimes certifications in specific machineryBasic machine operation certifications or training
Work EnvironmentOversees complex machinery, may supervise othersOperates machinery under supervision or standard procedures
ResponsibilitiesMaintains, troubleshoots, and optimizes equipment; mentors junior staffPerforms routine machine operation tasks

The main difference between a Senior Machine Operator and a Machine Operator lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Machine Operators handle more complex tasks, oversee equipment, and often mentor others, whereas Machine Operators focus on routine operation. Both roles require relevant certifications, but the senior position demands more expertise and experience.

What opportunities for career advancement are available to senior machine operators within manufacturing organizations?

Senior Machine Operators often have several pathways for career growth, including moving into supervisory or team lead roles, such as Production Supervisor or Shift Manager. Many organizations value the technical expertise and leadership skills developed in this position, making it possible to transition into roles that focus on process improvement, quality assurance, or training new operators. Additionally, pursuing certifications in advanced manufacturing technologies or equipment maintenance can open doors to specialized roles, such as Maintenance Technician or Process Engineer. Demonstrating initiative and strong problem-solving abilities can further increase advancement prospects within the company.

What is a senior machine operator?

Senior Machine Operators are experienced professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting industrial machinery in manufacturing or production settings. They oversee machine performance, ensure safety standards are met, and may supervise junior operators. Their role often includes setting up machines, performing quality checks, and making adjustments to optimize efficiency and product quality. Senior Machine Operators typically have several years of hands-on experience and a strong understanding of mechanical systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior machine operator?

To thrive as a Senior Machine Operator, you need advanced mechanical aptitude, experience with manufacturing equipment, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with additional technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, PLC systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe and productive work environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Senior Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Senior Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Machine Operator job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,102 per year, or $38 per hour.

Senior CNC Programmer

Strohwig Industries Inc

Richfield, WI โ€ข On-site

$42 - $56/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Senior CNC Programmer (3 & 5-Axis)

Richfield, WI | Full-Time | 1st Shift (5:45 AM - 2:15 PM) | $42.00–$56.00/hour

Program the Parts Others Can't.

Some shops run the same programs every day. We don't.

At Strohwig, we specialize in manufacturing complex, high-precision components for the aerospace, defense, energy, and other demanding industries. Our customers come to us because their parts require creativity, precision, and technical expertise—not because they're easy.

We're looking for an experienced Senior CNC Programmer who enjoys solving difficult machining challenges, optimizing toolpaths, and pushing manufacturing processes to the next level.

If you're the kind of programmer who gets excited by difficult parts, tight tolerances, and finding a better way to machine something, you'll fit right in.


Why Strohwig?

For more than 40 years, Strohwig has invested in advanced machining technology, engineering expertise, and talented people. Our 210,000-square-foot manufacturing facility is equipped with state-of-the-art CNC machining centers, including advanced 5-axis capabilities, allowing us to tackle projects that many shops simply can't.

You'll work alongside experienced machinists, engineers, and programmers who value collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

This isn't a production programming job—it's an opportunity to solve challenging manufacturing problems every day.


What You'll Do

As a Senior CNC Programmer, you'll:

  • Create and optimize CNC programs for complex 3-axis and 5-axis machining operations using PowerMill CAM software
  • Develop efficient machining strategies that maximize productivity while maintaining exceptional quality
  • Analyze engineering drawings, GD&T, models, and customer specifications
  • Select tooling, workholding, cutting strategies, and machining parameters
  • Collaborate with machinists, operators, engineers, and manufacturing teams to improve processes and reduce cycle times
  • Troubleshoot machining challenges and continuously improve existing programs
  • Support new product launches and prototype development
  • Mentor programmers and machinists by sharing programming knowledge and best practices
  • Drive continuous improvement in machining efficiency, quality, and productivity

What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications
  • Two or more years of CNC programming experience
  • Experience programming 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machining centers
  • Experience with CAM software (PowerMill experience is highly preferred)
  • Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, and cutting parameters
  • Ability to read engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams
Preferred Qualifications
  • Five or more years of CNC programming experience
  • Experience programming complex aerospace or high-precision components
  • Apprenticeship, technical degree, or equivalent training
  • Experience with fixture design and machining strategy development
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement practices

Benefits

We believe great employees deserve great benefits.

  • Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Company-Paid Dental Insurance
  • Company-Paid Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company-Paid Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance Plans Available
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Unpaid Excused Absences
  • Company-Paid Uniforms
  • Training & Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • Safety Shoe & Glasses Reimbursement Program
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement Program

Why You'll Love Working Here
  • Earn $42.00–$56.00 per hour
  • Program complex parts—not repetitive production work
  • Work with advanced CNC machining technology and 5-axis equipment
  • Collaborate with highly skilled machinists and engineers
  • See your programming ideas become reality on the shop floor
  • Join a company that continually invests in new technology and employee development
  • Build a long-term career with one of Wisconsin's premier precision manufacturers

About Strohwig Industries

Strohwig Industries manufactures precision-machined components for customers in the aerospace, defense, energy, and other high-performance industries. We specialize in solving complex manufacturing challenges through advanced machining technology, engineering expertise, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Ready to program parts that challenge your skills and make a real impact? Apply today and become part of the Strohwig team.


1st Shift