Machine Operator / Inventory Handler 1st Shift

Location: 

Watertown, WI, US, 53094

Job Posting Date:  Apr 21, 2026
Requisition ID:  53398
Shift:  First Shift
Employment Type:  Hourly
Full-time

Position Facility: Watertown

 

 Our manufacturing members are the heart of our organization. Members of our manufacturing team, which includes machine operators, packaging, shipping and more, take pride in ensuring we produce only the highest-quality, most consistent products for our customers and consumers. If you’re passionate about making a difference, we want you to help make our products, processes, communities and each other better.

Position Overview

Starting Hourly Rate:  $26.44/hr 
Hours: 5:30am – 2:30pm, Monday-Friday (Overtime as production demands).


The Formulation Department is the area where the fresh pork is ground, the spices are added, and then blended (formulated) to specifications for sausage making. This position will focus on chopping and chilling fat that will be added into product to meet specifications. The successful candidate will ensure compliance with safety, quality, and sanitation requirements in the department as well as operate, setup and teardown the machinery in the Formulation Dept.

Responsibilities

•    Prepare equipment for use by utilizing detailed checklists for inspection and assembly
•    Completing documentation accurately is critical
•    Perform periodic wash-downs of equipment 
•    Work together with other Formulation Members to obtain World Class results in safety, yields, usages, and efficiencies.
•    Utilizing SAP software functions for the department for inventory control and maintenance
•    Maintain the highest standards of detail as it relates to product specifications and quality
•    Comply with USDA regulations, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and safety rules at all times
•    Complete all other duties as assigned

Experience

•    Prior food manufacturing experience preferred
•    Grinding experience preferred but not required
•    Forklift experience preferred; Must be able to obtain forklift license and keep safe driving record

Skills

•    Teamwork is a must
•    Strong written and verbal communication skills required
•    Ability to read and understand a production schedule
•    Ability to work at a pace consistent with the process flow
•    Basic computer skills required
•    Proven ability to multi-task
•    Ability to communicate effectively with the team and work toward a common goal without direct supervision
•    Willingness to work overtime as production demands
•    Ability to work at a pace consistent with the process flow


Physical Demands:
•    Ability to hand grip up to 50 lbs, and push/pull up to 40 lbs on a regular basis
•    Walking and/or Standing throughout the shift
•    Bending and/or Reaching throughout the shift
•    Ability to work safely from elevated platforms and lifts
•    Ability to work in a cold environment
•    Willingness to work in cold conditions

Other Requirements

•    Must be at least 18 years old
•    External Candidates Only:  Ability to pass a pre-employment, post offer drug screen, physical and background check

Benefits and Compensation

Members have potential for a monthly bonus and 401k with a company match. Members also have access to terrific benefits including affordable medical, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; disability and life insurance; and fertility and adoption assistance. Johnsonville also offers competitive paid time off, including paid parental time off! Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the country where this job is located, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

About our Company

Since 1945, our family-owned band of sausage-makers has invented better ways to make, eat and prepare crave-able sausage.  Today, we are 4,000+ Members strong.  We sell our famous sausage in all 50 United States and more than 40 countries.  We have a culture built on the idea that if we make developing your talents our top priority, great business results will follow naturally.  We call it The Johnsonville Way.  It has been our secret sauce for decades, and we hope you get to experience it for yourself!

Johnsonville is an equal opportunity employer, including Vet/Disability. 

We embrace the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and do not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including protected veteran and disability status.

The Johnsonville Way

Our culture, called the Johnsonville Way, guides the way we behave, operate and treat one another. We truly believe that here at Johnsonville, we have a moral responsibility to create and maintain an environment that requires each Member to fully develop their God-given talents and help others to do the same. We achieve this by living the Johnsonville Way.

Our owner is famous for saying that, "Other companies use their people to build a business, but at Johnsonville, we use the business to build our people." We are proud to offer endless opportunities for continued learning and growth here at Johnsonville.


Nearest Major Market: Milwaukee