Production / Process Operator

Location: Johnson Creek, WI
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 2-2-3 Rotating Schedule | 12-Hour Shifts | Day/Night Rotation
Pay: $27-$33/hour

Position Overview

We are seeking a Production / Process Operator to monitor and operate industrial production processes, troubleshoot equipment and process issues, and ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations.

This is a hands-on industrial operations role suited for candidates with experience in process operations, manufacturing, production, chemical processing, food processing, power generation, utilities, or other continuous-process environments.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, comfortable working around industrial equipment and chemicals, able to follow detailed operating procedures, and capable of working a rotating 12-hour schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor production equipment and processes to maintain safe, efficient, and consistent operations.

• Monitor process conditions, production output, quality, and equipment performance.

• Identify, troubleshoot, and correct process or equipment issues.

• Inspect different areas of the facility to identify abnormal operating conditions or potential problems.

• Monitor and record process variables, operating data, samples, and routine production activities.

• Operate and monitor process systems, equipment, pumps, valves, tanks, conveyors, and related industrial machinery.

• Monitor chemical and material usage and maintain appropriate inventories.

• Communicate with laboratory, quality, maintenance, and operations teams to resolve production or quality issues.

• Prepare equipment for maintenance and contractors while following required safety procedures.

• Follow SOPs, lockout/tagout (LOTO), safe work permits, and other safety procedures.

• Handle chemicals and hazardous materials according to established safety procedures and SDS requirements.

• Cross-train on multiple production areas to provide operational coverage.

• Participate in process improvement projects designed to improve efficiency, reliability, safety, and operating costs.

• Complete scheduled operational work orders and assigned maintenance-related tasks.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.

• Participate in safety, environmental, quality, and food-safety programs.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support reliable plant operations.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• 0-2+ years of relevant industrial, manufacturing, production, or process operations experience.

• Associate degree in Process Technology, Industrial Technology, Chemical Technology, or a related field is preferred.

• Previous experience in a continuous-process or industrial manufacturing environment preferred.

• Experience in ethanol, chemical processing, food processing, refinery, power generation, water/wastewater, utilities, or similar industries is a plus.

• Ability to read, understand, and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Basic computer skills and ability to perform data entry and maintain production records.

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.

• Good communication and teamwork skills.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to monitor multiple processes simultaneously.

• Ability to work independently while following established safety and operating procedures.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work around moving mechanical equipment, industrial machinery, chemicals, noise, and varying temperatures.

• Work may involve indoor and outdoor environments, including extreme heat and cold.

• Ability to wear required PPE, including safety glasses, steel-toed boots, flame-resistant clothing, and hearing protection.

• Ability to regularly walk, stand, sit, communicate, and use hands for operating equipment.

• Ability to climb stairs and occasionally use ladders.

• Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and work in different areas of an industrial facility.

• Ability to regularly lift or move up to 25 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs.

• Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable qualified individuals to perform essential job functions.

Compensation & Benefits

• $27-$33/hour

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Sick Time

• Monthly Bonus Opportunities

• 401(k) with Company Match

• Additional Voluntary Benefits

• Other Employee Benefits and Perks