Assistant Machine Operator

Assistant Machine Operator (Extrusion)

At Pregis, you're joining more than a packaging company. You're joining a growing, innovative organization where your contributions matter and your career can thrive. As a privately held industry leader with more than $1 billion in annual revenue, 2,700+ employees, 25+ manufacturing and warehouse locations, and over $300 million invested into our operations in recent years, we're committed to long-term growth, innovation, and investing in our people.

Location: Sussex, WI N59 W22387 Silver Spring Dr., Sussex, WI 53089

Available Shifts: Day Shift & Night Shift (12-hour schedules) Mon-Thurs OR Fri-Sun

Are you mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and looking to grow your skills in a high-tech manufacturing environment? As an Extrusion Assistant Operator, you'll play an important role in producing high-quality blown film products while learning the technical skills needed to advance into an Extrusion Operator position. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and continuous learning.

What You'll Do

Production & Equipment Support

• Assist in the operation of blown film extrusion lines to meet production and quality goals.
• Support machine setup activities, production startups, and roll changes.
• Learn to independently operate an extrusion line as skills and experience develop.
• Operate core cutting and palletizing equipment to support production flow.

Quality & Inventory Management

• Perform visual and measurement-based quality inspections to ensure products meet specifications.
• Maintain raw materials and supplies needed for extrusion operations.
• Accurately label finished rolls and inventory.
• Complete production documentation and reporting accurately and on time.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and inventory handling procedures.

Material Handling & Safety

• Safely operate forklifts and other material handling equipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
• Attend required safety meetings and training sessions.

Teamwork & Continuous Learning

• Work closely with operators, leads, and supervisors to maximize production efficiency.
• Communicate equipment, material, or quality concerns promptly.
• Develop the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to advance
• Support a positive, collaborative team environment.

What We're Looking For

Required Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft applications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to follow established procedures.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb stairs and work at elevated heights.
• Ability to work around manufacturing equipment safely.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed footwear.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the shift.

Preferred Qualifications & Abilities

• High School Diploma or GED.
• One year of experience in a manufacturing, technical, mechanical, or industrial environment.
• Forklift experience is a plus.
• Experience working with production equipment, quality inspections, or material handling processes preferred.
• Take pride in producing high-quality products.
• Learn quickly and seek opportunities to grow their technical skills.
• Work safely and efficiently in a team environment.
• Demonstrate reliability, flexibility, and a strong work ethic.
• Show initiative and a desire to advance into higher-level manufacturing roles.

Benefits & Rewards

At Pregis, we invest in our employees' success both on and off the job. In addition to competitive pay, eligible employees may qualify for sign-on bonuses, referral bonuses, gainsharing opportunities, shift differentials, weekend premiums, and overtime pay. We also offer comprehensive medical, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off benefits to support you and your family.

• Medical plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Dental and Vision coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company-paid Life Insurance and AD&D coverage
• Short-Term Disability coverage at no cost to employees
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
• Paid Time Off, Sick Time, and Floating Holidays

What Else Makes Pregis a Great Place to Work?

• Paid Training & Development - We set our employees up for success from day one. New team members participate in our structured 8-week training program, receiving hands-on instruction, mentorship, and support to build confidence and develop the skills needed to succeed in the role.
• Growth is a way of life at Pregis. We believe in promoting from within and providing employees with opportunities to advance their careers through training, skill development, and internal career paths. Whether you're looking to become a technical expert, team lead, supervisor, or move into other areas of the business, we'll help you get there.
• A safe, team-oriented work environment
• A culture built on integrity, collaboration, innovation, and customer focus
• Employee Resource Groups, including Veterans and Women's ERGs
• A company committed to sustainability, community involvement, and making a positive impact beyond the workplace
• We believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion

We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis' culture and achievements. Visit us at for more information about Pregis LLC.