2nd Shift - Machine Operator

Aerotek; Fitchburg (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) plan with match

Steel-toe footwear voucher

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a 2nd Shift Machine Operator in Fitchburg, WI to set up, operate, and adjust production machinery, load materials, perform changeovers, and ensure quality products. You will record production data in the ERP system while working safely in a team-oriented environment.

The role requires 1+ year of manufacturing experience, ability to lift up to 50 pounds, and comfort working on the 2nd shift (4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.).

Qualifications

• 1+ year of manufacturing or production experience.
• Hands-on machine operating experience in a production environment.
• Experience with machine setup, including die changes and changeovers.
• Ability to perform basic machine operation tasks such as loading, running, and unloading equipment.
• Experience working with fiberglass or insulation, or willingness to work around these materials while using PPE.
• Experience in automotive or related manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Follow all operating procedures and work instructions to ensure safe and consistent machine operation.
• Load materials into machines such as punch presses and cookie cutter machinery according to job specifications.
• Perform machine setup, including die changes and changeovers, and complete light computer work for job changes.
• Adjust machine settings to meet job order specifications and maximize productivity.
• Monitor machine operation and finished product quality, reporting defects or concerns.
• Remove finished products, stack on pallets, and prepare for shipment or processing.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Machine setup/changeovers

Load/unload equipment

ERP data entry

Quality awareness

Lift 50 lbs

Team/independent work

Fiberglass/insulation PPE

Attention to detail

Auto/manufacturing env experience

Tools

ERP system

Job description

Job Title: 2nd Shift Machine Operator

The Machine Operator on 2nd shift sets up, operates, and adjusts production machinery to safely and efficiently produce high-quality products according to specifications. This role involves loading materials, performing machine changeovers, monitoring output for quality, and accurately recording production data while working in a clean, organized, and team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Follow all operating procedures and written work instructions to ensure safe and consistent machine operation.

• Load materials into machines such as punch presses and cookie cutter machinery in accordance with job specifications.

• Perform machine setup, including die changes and changeovers, and complete light computer work required for job changes.

• Adjust machine settings to meet job order specifications, ensuring accurate production and maximizing productivity.

• Monitor machine operation and finished product quality, promptly detecting and reporting defective materials or questionable conditions to supervisors.

• Remove finished products from the machine, stack them neatly on pallets, and prepare them for shipment or further processing.

• Wrap pallets securely and stage them for pickup by forklift operators.

• Maintain a clean and safe workstation by following the shop 5S system and adhering to all safety guidelines.

• Accurately record labor time and material usage in the ERP system to support production tracking and inventory control.

• Work safely around machines that may involve fiberglass or insulation, using all provided personal protective equipment as required.

• Collaborate effectively with team members on machines that require a two-person operation and work independently on machines designed for solo operation.

• Lift and move materials and products weighing up to 50 pounds as part of daily tasks.

• Support general production activities such as assembly, inspection, packing, and basic machine adjustments as needed.

Essential Skills

• 1+ year of manufacturing or production experience.

• Hands-on machine operating experience in a production or manufacturing environment.

• Experience with machine setup, including die changes and changeovers.

• Ability to perform basic machine operation tasks such as loading, running, and unloading equipment.

• Experience working with fiberglass or insulation, or willingness to work around these materials while using appropriate PPE.

• Experience in automotive or related manufacturing environments.

• Capability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and perform physical tasks throughout the shift.

• Ability to accurately record labor and material usage in an ERP or similar production tracking system.

• Strong attention to detail to detect defective materials and ensure products meet specifications.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adhere to standard operating procedures.

• Comfort working both as part of a two-person team and independently, depending on the machine.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in production, packaging, assembly, inspection, or packing roles.

• Familiarity with 5S or other workplace organization and continuous improvement practices.

• Comfort using light computer applications for job changes and data entry.

• Interest in learning new machines and processes to expand skills and earning potential.

• Strong work ethic and reliability in a shift-based manufacturing environment.

Why Work Here?

Employees enjoy a family-like atmosphere with a supportive leadership team that values trust and independence rather than micromanagement. The environment is relaxed yet professional, with perks such as being able to listen to music on speakers while working. Once hired directly, team members gain access to comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage through a major provider, a 401(k) with a 3.5% match, and an annual steel-toe footwear voucher. Paid time off becomes available after a short waiting period, and annual performance reviews provide opportunities for feedback and growth. Employees can learn new machines and skills to earn pay increases, creating a clear path for development within a stable manufacturing operation.

Work Environment

This role is for 2nd shift, working Monday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., with overtime typically available on Fridays for a 6-hour shift that is mostly voluntary but may occasionally be required. There is also a 1st shift schedule of Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., within the facility. The workplace operates in a laid-back, family-feel manufacturing environment where the general culture emphasizes accountability without close supervision. Employees receive two paid 10-minute breaks and one paid 30-minute break per shift and do not need to clock out for these breaks. The facility uses production equipment such as punch presses and cookie cutter machinery, and some machines involve working with fiberglass or insulation; all necessary personal protective equipment is provided. Work may be performed either in pairs or independently, depending on the machine. The role is physically active, involving lifting up to 50 pounds and working on the production floor, where appropriate work attire and safety footwear are required, supported by an annual steel-toe voucher once hired direct.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.50 - $19.50/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographical location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your jobclassification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may besubject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefitsavailable for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

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

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 23, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Fitchburg,WI.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.