Machine Operator

This role focuses on operating fabrication equipment such as press brakes, lasers, and turrets in a low-volume, high-changeover production environment. You will begin as a helper, learn parts sorting and labeling, and progress to setting up, programming, and running fabrication machinery while ensuring parts move accurately to their next operations across multiple production areas.

Responsibilities

• Run fabrication equipment including press brakes, lasers, and turrets based on experience and training.
• Perform multiple changeovers per shift in a low-quantity production environment, often 5 or more changeovers per shift.
• Start as a helper and learn the parts sorting function, becoming proficient in this key aspect of the machine operator role.
• Label parts correctly as they are produced and determine their next operation, such as machining, paint, or transfer to another plant.
• Accurately route parts to designated drop zones, including approximately 10 drop zones at the main fabrication and paint plant and many more across other locations.
• Learn and follow the specific process steps for different parts so each part reaches the correct next operation without needing to be remade.
• Set up, program, and run laser, brake, or turret equipment as skills develop.
• Work with a variety of equipment brands, including Amada turrets, Bystronic and Mazak lasers, and Cincinnati and Bystronic brakes, many of which use offline programming.
• Use blueprints to understand part specifications and ensure parts meet required dimensions and quality standards.
• Measure parts accurately with a tape measure and perform basic math conversions between fractions and decimals.
• Collaborate with fabrication, machining, and paint departments to maintain smooth workflow and on-time part movement.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area in the fabrication department.
• Support production across different shifts as needed, including occasional mandatory Friday work and optional overtime.

• Previous manufacturing experience in a fabrication or machining environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints to understand part requirements and tolerances.
• Proficiency in reading a tape measure down to at least 1/16 inch, with qualification expectations up to 1/32 inch.
• Capability to perform math conversions between decimals and fractions and vice versa.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with fabrication machinery and tools.
• Ability to set up, program, and run laser, brake, or turret equipment.
• Attention to detail when labeling and sorting parts to ensure accurate routing to the next operation.
• Reliability in following established processes for different parts so they reach the correct drop zones.

• Experience operating press brakes, lasers, turrets, and other CNC fabrication equipment.
• Familiarity with Amada turrets, Bystronic and Mazak lasers, and Cincinnati or Bystronic brakes, including offline programming environments.
• Strong organizational skills for managing multiple part types and drop zones across several locations.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with frequent machine changeovers.
• Willingness to learn new trades and cross-train in different fabrication operations.
• Interest in taking on additional overtime when available.

You join a workplace that rewards growth and initiative, offering eligibility for three raises within your first 18 months once you become a direct employee. There is abundant overtime available for those who want to increase their earnings, and clear upward mobility to learn new trades and expand your skill set. The environment supports continuous learning, cross-training, and long-term career development in fabrication and related operations.

Work Environment

The role is based in a fabrication and paint plant where all fabrication and painting operations take place. The facility houses brakes, lasers, punches, turrets, bars, and various CNC machines within the fabrication department. The department operates multiple shifts: first shift runs Monday through Thursday from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; second shift runs Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; weekend shift runs Friday through Sunday from 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The department follows a rotating schedule with one mandatory Friday per month, typically an 8-hour shift, and offers as much optional overtime as you want. The environment is production-focused, with active fabrication and painting operations, and requires adherence to safety guidelines and appropriate industrial work attire suited to a shop floor setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Appleton, WI.

The pay range for this position is $25.15 - $26.80/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 Appleton,WI.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 2026.

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.