Machine Operator

QPS Employment Group; Athens (WI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

QPS Employment Group seeks a dependable Machine Operator in Athens, WI for a 1st shift (6:15am–2:45pm). You will operate and set up woodworking equipment, monitor quality, complete production records, and assist with material handling and packaging.

Ideal candidates are mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and able to work independently while contributing to a safety-focused team environment. Prior woodworking or lumber experience is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn machine setup and troubleshooting.
• Strong math skills for production calculations and measurements.
• Ability to read a tape measure; calipers preferred or willing to learn.
• Clear documentation of production records and data.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate production equipment like gang rip saws, planers, and sanders.
• Feed, sort, stack, and organize lumber and finished materials.
• Adjust machines to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and lubrication.
• Measure materials and setups using tape measures/calipers.
• Complete production records and reports accurately.
• Calculate lumber footage using provided formulas.
• Assist with packaging and labeling for shipment.
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized work area.
• Follow safety procedures and production standards.
• Collaborate with team to meet goals and customer specs.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Tape measure reading

Math skills

Attention to detail

Independent worker

Tools

Calipers

Job description

Position Title: Machine Operator Wage: $20.00 - $25.00/hour Shift: 1st Hours: 6:15am - 2:45pm (Monday - Friday)

We are seeking a dependable and motivated Machine Operator to support daily production operations in a wood manufacturing environment in Athens, WI. This role involves operating and setting up woodworking machinery, monitoring product quality, completing production documentation, and assisting with material handling and packaging. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and able to work independently while contributing to a team-focused environment.

Machine Operator Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate production equipment, including gang rip saws, planers, and sanders
• Feed, relieve, sort, stack, and organize lumber and finished materials throughout the production process
• Perform machine adjustments and basic equipment setups as needed to ensure product quality and efficiency
• Conduct routine preventative maintenance tasks, including greasing equipment and monitoring fluid levels
• Accurately measure materials and machine setups using tape measures and calipers
• Complete production records, reports, and other required documentation accurately and legibly
• Calculate lumber footage and other production measurements using provided formulas and calculators
• Assist with packaging products for shipment, including counting, marking, tagging, and labeling materials
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Follow all safety procedures, policies, and production standards
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet production goals and customer requirements

Requirements for Machine Operator:

• Reliable attendance and a strong commitment to being on time and ready to work
• Ability to accurately read a tape measure; experience with calipers is preferred or the willingness to learn
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn machine setup, adjustments, and troubleshooting
• Strong basic math skills and the ability to complete production calculations accurately
• Ability to read, write, and maintain clear and accurate production documentation
• Previous manufacturing, machine operation, woodworking, or lumber industry experience is preferred but not required
• Willingness to learn different wood species and quality standards
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality, safety, and accuracy
• Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the workday
• Ability to perform repetitive motions, including bending, twisting, lifting, reaching, and material handling
• Ability to safely work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Ability to lift and move materials as required by the position
• Ability to perform physical job duties safely and consistently throughout scheduled shifts

IND050 QPS Employment Group is a full-service staffing firm comprised of dedicated and passionate people with over 50 offices throughout the United States. We place great people with great companies in industrial, skilled trades, administrative, manufacturing, general labor and professional employment. Hiring immediately!

Why Work with QPS?

• Access to sought-after positions with leading employers
• Dedicated placement specialists who will guide you through every step of the job search process

Best of all, our job matching and resume assistance services are 100% free to job seekers! We will never ask you to pay a fee.

Please note that QPS Employment Group may use a virtual recruiting assistant to help screen and schedule candidates efficiently. All information collected through this process is used solely for employment purposes and is handled securely in accordance with our privacy policy.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.