Machine Operator

The Machine Operator sets up, operates, and maintains mill equipment that bends metal into precision tubing and pipe. This role combines mechanical aptitude, basic electrical understanding, and hands-on troubleshooting to keep production running safely and efficiently while maintaining high quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate the mill machine to bend metal into pipe and tubing, following established procedures and specifications.
• Change out metal rolls on the mill machine at intervals ranging from approximately every 2 to 12 hours, ensuring correct setup and alignment.
• Perform routine quality checks on parts and adjust machine settings as needed to maintain dimensional accuracy and surface quality.
• Troubleshoot machine issues and perform minor mechanical repairs and adjustments to minimize downtime.
• Use basic knowledge of 3-phase, 480-volt electrical systems to recognize when to escalate and call qualified personnel for major electrical issues.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance on the mill and related equipment using hand tools and power tools, following maintenance schedules and checklists.
• Complete a small tack weld to connect metal strips as part of the process; participate in on-the-job training to learn this basic welding step.
• Use measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers to verify product dimensions and ensure parts meet specifications.
• Monitor equipment performance throughout the shift and communicate any concerns or recurring issues to the appropriate team members.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines to maintain a safe work area and protect yourself and coworkers.
• Document production, maintenance activities, and quality checks as required.
• Collaborate with team members in machining, maintenance, mechanics, and fabrication to solve problems and improve processes.
• Think critically and creatively to troubleshoot unusual issues and contribute to continuous improvement of the operation.

• At least 2 years of experience troubleshooting and running industrial machinery or production equipment.
• At least 2 years of experience in maintenance and welding/fabrication or closely related mechanical work.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues and perform minor repairs on production machines.
• Familiarity with basic electrical concepts, including 3-phase, 480-volt systems, sufficient to identify when to involve qualified electrical personnel.
• Ability to perform basic preventative maintenance using hand tools and power tools.
• Experience using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers to verify part dimensions.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with machining, maintenance, mechanic, or fabrication equipment.
• Ability to perform simple welding tasks (tack welds) or willingness to learn on the job.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think outside the box when addressing equipment or process issues.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and work safely in a manufacturing environment.

• Background in machining, maintenance, mechanical repair, or metal fabrication.
• Experience with industrial troubleshooting on mills or similar production machinery.
• Hands-on experience with preventive maintenance programs in a manufacturing setting.
• Comfort using a variety of hand tools and power tools in daily work.
• Ability to learn new processes and equipment and adapt to a highly skilled, technical position.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain troubleshooting steps, maintenance performed, and quality findings.
• Reliability and consistent attendance to support production schedules and team performance.
• Interest in continuous learning and developing advanced skills in machine operation and fabrication.

You will join a stable, safety-focused manufacturer that invests in its people through strong benefits, structured training, and clear opportunities for growth. The environment is relaxed yet professional, with leadership that is willing to work with employees through personal situations as long as communication remains open and proactive. The role offers annual pay raises and bonus programs tied to company sales, safety performance, and individual attendance, with typically aggressive increases that reward commitment and contribution. Shift premiums and the potential for substantial raises within the first 120 days reflect the value placed on skilled operators. You will build a highly marketable skill set in a position that is constantly challenging and never boring, while working alongside a friendly, supportive team in a non-union, collaborative setting.

Work Environment

This position is based in a manufacturing plant with approximately 100 employees working across four shifts in a non-union environment. Available shifts include: A Shift: Monday–Thursday, 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; B Shift: Monday–Thursday, 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.; C Shift: Friday–Sunday, 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; D Shift: Friday–Sunday, 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Training typically lasts 3 to 6 months, after which you may work independently on your assigned shift. The facility emphasizes safety and a friendly, supportive culture, with a relaxed atmosphere where clear communication is encouraged. Work is hands-on around industrial mill equipment, metal materials, and standard manufacturing tools, including hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring devices. The environment is production-focused, with an emphasis on safe work practices, teamwork, and continuous learning.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Janesville, WI.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Janesville,WI.

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.