Program associate Jobs in Madison, WI

Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program – Skilled Trades

Are you mechanically inclined and interested in building a long-term career in manufacturing? Placon is seeking motivated individuals for our Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program to work in our Madison, WI facility. This paid, hands-on training opportunity allows you select a CNC Tooling, Industrial Maintenance, or Machine Operations career path to develop valuable technical skills in a modern thermoforming manufacturing environment.

Whether you're a recent graduate, changing careers, a military veteran, or someone who enjoys working with tools and solving mechanical problems, we will provide the training and support needed to succeed.

No prior experience required. We are willing to train motivated individuals who demonstrate mechanical aptitude and a desire to learn.

Compensation

Starting pay based on experience and selected apprenticeship track.

• Paid on-the-job training
• Structured skill development program
• Progressive wage increases as skills are obtained
• Overtime opportunities available
• Shift differentials available for off-shift assignments

Work Schedule

• 2nd Shift: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Monday – Friday
• 3rd Shift: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM | Monday - Friday

OR take advantage of the Rotational 12-hour shift

• Rotating Night Shift: 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM | 12-hour rotation (2 days on, 2 days off, 3 days on, 2 days off and repeat)
• Benefits of working a Rotational 12-hour shift:
• More time off: Enjoy 182 days off per year (double a traditional 8-hour schedule)
• Long weekends: 3-day weekend every other week
• Built-In overtime: 8 hours of overtime every two weeks
• Consistent full-time work with predictable time off

Why Placon – You'll Love It Here

• Earn while you learn a skilled trade
• No prior manufacturing experience required
• Hands-on training with experienced mentors
• Exposure to CNC machining, tooling, maintenance, and manufacturing operations
• Stable full-time employment with advancement opportunities
• Competitive benefits package
• Culture focused on safety, continuous improvement, and employee development
• Career paths leading to:
• CNC Machinist
• Tooling Technician
• Industrial Maintenance Technician
• Thermoforming Machine Operator
• Process Technician
• Manufacturing Supervisor

What You'll Learn

Throughout the apprenticeship program, participants will gain experience in one of these areas:

Tooling - CNC

• Operate and set up CNC machining equipment
• Read blueprints and technical drawings
• Measure and inspect parts using precision measuring instruments
• Assist with tooling repairs and modifications
• Learn machining fundamentals and manufacturing processes

Industrial Maintenance

• Troubleshoot mechanical equipment
• Perform preventative maintenance
• Assist with machine repairs and equipment installation
• Learn electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems
• Support continuous improvement initiatives

Machine Operations

• Set up and operate thermoforming equipment
• Monitor product quality
• Perform routine machine adjustments
• Troubleshoot basic processing issues
• Complete production and quality documentation

What You Bring

• Mechanical aptitude and interest in learning technical skills
• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Manufacturing, automotive, farm, construction, military, robotics, welding, machining, or mechanical experience is helpful but not required
• Ability to learn new equipment and processes
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to work safely and follow established procedures
• Ability to read, write, and speak English for training, safety, and quality requirements
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform the physical requirements of manufacturing work
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic
• Ability to handle differing opinions and resolve conflict professionally while upholding The Placon Way

Ideal Candidates May Have Experience In

• Automotive repair
• Welding
• CNC machining
• Construction trades
• Maintenance
• Manufacturing
• Robotics competitions
• Technical education programs
• Military mechanical occupations
• Agricultural equipment operation

No prior experience required. We are willing to train motivated individuals who demonstrate mechanical aptitude and a desire to learn.

Does this sound like you?

If you're looking for a career instead of just a job and want to develop highly marketable technical skills while earning a paycheck, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and start building your future with Placon.

Placon employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug test, basic physical, background check, educational verification, and reference checks (as applicable).

Placon requires that employees have and maintain authorization to work in the country in which the role is based. In general, Placon does not sponsor candidates for non-immigrant visas or permanent residency unless based on business need.

Placon is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics.

This role requires the ability to work through differing perspectives and resolve conflict in a respectful and professional manner consistent with The Placon Way.