Machine Operator Entry Level

ITW Shakeproof; Watertown (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

ITW Shakeproof in Watertown, WI is hiring for an entry-level Machine Operator to learn cold heading and thread rolling. No prior experience required; training will be provided as you gain skills setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment to produce precision fasteners.

The 2nd shift offers a four‑day workweek, 10‑hour days, 2:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., with Fridays through Sundays off and a robust shift premium when overtime occurs. We value safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous manufacturing, machine operating, production, or similar experience preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and an interest in learning how machinery and tooling work.
• Ability to read and follow safety rules, work instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to complete routine production and quality documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
• Safety-focused mindset.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Continuous improvement mindset.

Responsibilities

• Learn to set up and operate cold heading and/or thread rolling equipment.
• Select, install, and align dies, tooling, guides, and machine components.
• Load coils of metal wire or rod and properly feed material into production equipment.
• Adjust machine settings and tooling to produce parts within required specifications and tolerances.
• Monitor machines during production and identify potential equipment problems or product defects.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, including cleaning and oiling equipment.
• Inspect your work and help ensure products meet our quality standards.
• Complete required production, quality, and safety documentation.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including handling scrap and general housekeeping.
• Follow established safety procedures and work practices.
• Work with experienced operators and other team members to continuously improve processes, quality, and productivity.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Good work ethic

Attention to detail

Safety mindset

Teamwork

Communication skills

Physical strength

Willingness to learn

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

Looking for more than just another manufacturing job? We are looking for dependable, mechanically minded individuals who want the opportunity to learn a skilled manufacturing trade and build a long-term career.

Our Machine Operator position is an entry-level opportunity in cold heading and thread rolling. Previous cold heading or thread rolling experience is not required. If you have experience working in a manufacturing environment, enjoy working with machinery, take pride in producing quality work, and are willing to learn, we are willing to train you.

You’ll work alongside experienced team members who will teach you how to set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain specialized equipment used to manufacture precision metal fasteners.

2nd Shift – Enjoy a 3-Day Weekend!

This is a 2nd shift position with a 4-day workweek! Our 2nd shift team works four 10-hour days, Monday through Thursday, 2:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m., giving you Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off during a regular workweek. When additional overtime is available or needed, it is typically scheduled for Friday afternoons, helping you earn extra hours while still leaving much of your weekend open for family, friends, hobbies, and activities outside of work. You will also enjoy a robust shift premium on second shift.

What You'll Do

As you learn and develop in the position, your responsibilities will include:

• Learn to set up and operate cold heading and/or thread rolling equipment.
• Select, install, and align dies, tooling, guides, and machine components.
• Load coils of metal wire or rod and properly feed material into production equipment.
• Adjust machine settings and tooling to produce parts within required specifications and tolerances.
• Monitor machines during production and identify potential equipment problems or product defects.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, including cleaning and oiling equipment.
• Inspect your work and help ensure products meet our quality standards.
• Complete required production, quality, and safety documentation.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including handling scrap and general housekeeping.
• Follow established safety procedures and work practices.
• Work with experienced operators and other team members to continuously improve processes, quality, and productivity.

What We're Looking For

You do not need previous cold heading or thread rolling experience to be considered. We’re looking for someone who brings a good work ethic, mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn.

Qualifications Include

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous manufacturing, machine operating, production, or similar industrial experience preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and an interest in learning how machinery and tooling work.
• Ability to read and follow safety rules, work instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to complete routine production and quality documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
• Safety-focused mindset.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Continuous improvement mindset.

Previous experience operating single- or multi-die header machines, thread rolling equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery is a plus, but it is not required.

Learn a Skilled Manufacturing Trade

This isn't a position where we expect you to know everything on your first day. You'll have the opportunity to learn specialized cold heading and thread rolling equipment while working with experienced employees who know the equipment and processes.

We’re looking for someone who wants to learn, develop their skills, and become a valuable long-term member of our manufacturing team.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.