Machine Operator Apprentice - 3rd Shift (Coils)

Eaton’s ES AMER ESS division is seeking a Machine Operator Apprentice to join our team in Waukesha, WI.

Pay

The hourly rate for this position is $24.45 plus a $2.50 per hour shift differential and a $2.50 per hour shift premium. Overtime may be required and may exceed the core hours of 11 pm – 7 am.

A sign-on bonus of $3,000 is offered, paid in two installments (less applicable withholding). Bonus terms:

• Applications must be submitted on or after January 1, 2026 to qualify.
• Bonuses are only applicable to specific job types and shifts; additional terms and conditions may apply.
• Associates must be employed at the time of payout.

Schedule

Core hours are 11 pm – 7 am (3rd shift).

Benefits

• Health benefits and vacation time available from day one.
• Paid holidays (up to 12).
• Weekly pay.
• Shift premiums ($2.50/hr for off shifts).
• Overtime opportunities.
• Career progression opportunities to cross-train in different departments and increase compensation.
• Retirement benefits.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Educational Assistance Program.
• Wellness Reimbursement.

About the Role

The Coil Winder Machine Operator Apprentice will set up and operate winding machines to produce coils of various sizes according to specifications on winding sheets, diagrams, and order pouches. Coil conductor configurations include strip, round, and rectangular wire in various combinations.

The apprenticeship program includes:

• Classroom technical training.
• Welding and brazing training at WCTC.
• Use of HoloLens virtual reality smart glasses.
• On-the-job training.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret winding specification documents.
• Find the coil number, quantity, and revision, and record the coil number on the coil and labor recording paperwork.
• Install and adjust appropriate devices on the coil winding machine to meet window sizing specifications.
• Load strip, conductor, and insulating paper to dereeling mechanisms on the machine.
• Measure materials, make adjustments to the machine, and verify proper alignment.
• Place and adjust the coil form as specified.
• Apply pack out as needed per specification, repeated on each section of the coil.
• Fold, insulate, and tape-weld pre-cut leads to strip stock of the coil body.
• Operate a crimping tool to crimp wire to static shielding.
• Complete a two-week welding and brazing training at WCTC.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 months of experience or education in manufacturing, military, or a related field.
• Eaton will not sponsor employment-based immigration (e.g., CPT, OPT, H-1B, O-1, TN, etc.) for this position.
• No relocation is offered; candidates must live within 50 miles of Waukesha, WI (Active Duty Military Service members exempt from geographical limitation).

Qualifications

• Preferred: High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution.
• Preferred: Minimum of one year of manufacturing experience or military technical training.
• Preferred: Minimum of six months prior coil winding experience.

Skills

• Ability to interpret prints, quality specifications, and applicable instructions for safety, maintenance, operating, and engineering.
• Ability to work overtime when required.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; bend, twist, grab, reach, stand, walk, push, pull, and use both hands to lift and lower materials.
• Ability to perform all essential duties with or without reasonable accommodations.