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1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Freeport, IL (NOW HIRING)

Etnyre

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

... Operator to join our team. If you're detail-oriented and enjoy hands-on work in a fast-paced ... First Shift Monday-Friday 40-48 hours per week What You'll Do: * Operate machines such as lathes ...

E.D. Etnyre & Co.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

... Operator to join our team. If you're detail-oriented and enjoy hands-on work in a fast-paced ... First Shift | Monday-Friday 40-48 hours per week What You'll Do: * Operate machines such as lathes ...

Aebi Schmidt Group

Machine Operator- 1st Shift

Monroe, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR At Monroe Truck Equipment, an Aebi Schmidt brand located in Monroe WI, we pride ... Health Insurance 1st of the Month after Hire * Vision & Dental Insurance 1st of the Month after ...

McDonald Mfg. Co.

Machine Operator - 1st shift

Beloit, WI

$16 - $19.25/hr

Able to operate multiple machines within a work center. * Collection and data entry of production tracking into company computers. * Adds coolant to reservoirs and lubricates machine parts as needed.

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All Jobs1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Freeport, IL

1St Shift Machine Operator information

See Freeport, IL salary details

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How much do 1st shift machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift machine operator in Freeport, IL is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a 1st shift machine operator?

To thrive as a 1st Shift Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, basic computer skills, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel and maintain a safe, efficient work environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for minimizing downtime, ensuring product quality, and supporting overall plant productivity.

What is the difference between 1St Shift Machine Operator vs 2Nd Shift Machine Operator?

Aspect1St Shift Machine Operator2Nd Shift Machine Operator
Work HoursTypically 8:00 AM - 4:00 PMUsually 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
CertificationsRequires basic machine operation certificationsSame certifications as 1st shift
Work EnvironmentDaytime production floorEvening/night shift on the same production floor
Employer UsageCommonly advertised for day shifts in manufacturingOften sought for night shift roles in factories

The main difference between a 1St Shift Machine Operator and a 2Nd Shift Machine Operator lies in their working hours. Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but they operate during different shifts. Employers often seek these roles based on shift timing preferences, with 1st shift covering daytime hours and 2nd shift handling evening or night hours.

What does a 1st shift machine operator do?

As a 1st Shift Machine Operator, your day typically starts early in the morning and involves setting up, operating, and monitoring machinery to ensure efficient production runs. You'll be responsible for maintaining quality standards, troubleshooting minor equipment issues, and completing production reports. Collaboration is common—you'll frequently communicate with supervisors, maintenance teams, and quality assurance staff to address issues and meet production goals. This teamwork is essential for keeping the workflow smooth and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is a 1st shift machine operator?

A 1st Shift Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery during the first shift of the workday, typically starting in the early morning and ending in the afternoon. Their duties include setting up machines, monitoring production processes, conducting quality checks, and performing basic maintenance or troubleshooting tasks. This role is common in manufacturing, production, and warehouse environments, and requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and adherence to safety protocols.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Freeport, IL? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Freeport, IL are:
What cities near Freeport, IL are hiring for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Freeport, IL with the most 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings:
1St Shift Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings in Freeport, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,930 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st shift

Hughes Recruiting & Consulting

Freeport, IL

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Machine Operator: Freeport, Illinois
Our customer in Freeport, Illinois, is seeking motivated individuals to join their team. As a Machine Operator, you will be responsible for operating saw and fabrication equipment while supporting daily production goals in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities of the Machine Operator:
  • Operate saw machines and fabrication equipment to cut and process steel materials accurately.
  • Set up and operate punch press and brake press machines according to job specifications.
  • Push and pull carts of steel and load materials into machines safely.
  • Assist with robotic machine operation as needed.
  • Measure materials using a tape measure to ensure accuracy and quality.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.
  • Follow all safety procedures and production guidelines.
Machine Operator Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Prior machine operating experience required.
  • Ability to read and use a tape measure accurately.
  • Comfortable with labor-intensive work and heavy lifting.
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
  • Willingness to learn and grow within the fabrication department.
Pay for Machine Operator: Starting at $16.00/hour with potential for increases within the first two months based on attendance and performance.
Machine Operator Benefits:
  • Health insurance.
  • Paid time off.
  • 401k with company match.
  • Paid weekly.
  • Direct deposit.
  • Paid training.
Type: 1st Shift, Full-time.
Schedule: Monday – Thursday 6:00am – 4:00pm with overtime Friday 6:00am – 2:00pm and Saturday 6:00am – 11:00am as needed.
Apply now!
Are you ready to move from the worries of today to your dreams of tomorrow? If so, give Hughes a call. We are the top-rated staffing, recruiting, and HR experts in the region. We are headquartered in Freeport, IL and have 11 locations across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Where we have offices, we have connections to the best local jobs! Walk in our doors and you’ll find friendly professional staff who dig deep, get results, and most importantly have fun! The reviews speak for themselves, at Hughes we quickly hook you up with companies that offer competitive pay rates, great culture & benefits, and a chance to elevate your life. We offer health insurance and 401(k) too to all our employees. To get the ball rolling, visit us online at www.hughesrecruiting.com and complete our application. We’ll be in touch soon!