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

Machine Operator

Oregon, IL · On-site

$22.10/hr

DUTIES * Sets Up and Operates Machines * Sets up and operates moderately difficult machines ... Available to work 1st Shift Hours * Operator work a 40 hour week, plus overtime as required to meet ...

DUTIES * Sets Up and Operates Machines * Sets up and operates moderately difficult machines ... Available to work 1st Shift Hours * Operator work a 40 hour week, plus overtime as required to meet ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Monroe, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times ... Collect first shots and last shots * Correctly complete Production Orders and Machine Cards * Use ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Monroe, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times ... Collect first shots and last shots * Correctly complete Production Orders and Machine Cards * Use ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Monroe, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times ... Collect first shots and last shots * Correctly complete Production Orders and Machine Cards * Use ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Monroe, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times ... Collect first shots and last shots * Correctly complete Production Orders and Machine Cards * Use ...

Machine Operator- 2nd 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 ...

Machine Operator- 2nd 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 amp; Dental Insurance 1st of the Month after ...

Machine Operator- 2nd 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 amp; Dental Insurance 1st of the Month after ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

... Shift Premium | Annual Bonus Eligible Etnyre International , a family-owned and growing manufacturer of road maintenance and repair equipment, is hiring a Machine Operator to join our team. If you're ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

... Shift Premium Annual Bonus Eligible Etnyre International , a family-owned and growing manufacturer of road maintenance and repair equipment, is hiring a Machine Operator to join our team. If you're ...

Showing results 21-40

1St Shift Machine Operator information

See Freeport, IL salary details

$12

$17

$22

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:
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.

$24/hour - Machine Operator - 1st Shift-Freeport,Illinois

Zurn Elkay Water Solutions

Forreston, IL

$24/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

$24/hour - Machine Operator - 1st Shift
The Company
Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation is a thriving, values-driven company focused on doing the right things. We're a fast growing, publicly traded company (NYSE: ZWS), with an enduring reputation for integrity, giving back, and providing an engaging, inclusive environment where careers flourish and grow.
Named by Newsweek as One of America's Most Responsible Companies and an Energage USA Top Workplace, at Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation, we never forget that our people are at the center of what makes us successful. They are the driving force behind our superior quality, product ingenuity, and exceptional customer experience. Our commitment to our people and their professional development is a recipe for success that has fueled our growth for over 100 years, as one of today's leading international suppliers of plumbing and water delivery solutions.
Headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation employs over 2800 employees worldwide, working from 24 locations across the U.S., China, Canada, Dubai, and Mexico, with sales offices available around the globe. We hope you'll visit our website and learn more about Zurn Elkay at zurnelkay.com.
If you're ready to join a company where what you do makes a difference and you have pride in the work you are doing, talk to us about joining the Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation family!
If you are a current employee, please navigate here to apply internally.
$24/hour
Under the supervision of the Supervisor, the Machine Operators primary function is to set up, run, and oversee machines that produce or process materials, contributing to consistent production output, while minimizing downtime or defects.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Load raw materials into the inventory system
  • Store and retrieve offcuts for reuse in production processes
  • Monitor tooling performance and coordinate timely replacements
  • Perform quality inspections on finished goods to ensure compliance with standards
  • Perform routine checks and minor maintenance; report major issues to technicians.
  • Collaborate with the Planning department to meet production requirements
  • Complete daily inventory cycle counts following standardized work instructions
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the machine operation area
  • Execute system transactions in MRP/ERP and generate required reports
  • Work safely and effectively, adhering to all safety protocols
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth material flow
  • Other duties as required

Knowledge, Skill & Experience Requirements:
  • Experience operating CNC machinery in a manufacturing environment
  • Familiarity with inventory systems and ERP software (JD Edwards preferred)
  • Strong understanding of tooling maintenance and performance monitoring
  • Knowledge of quality inspection procedures and standards
  • Perform routine checks and minor maintenance; report major issues to technicians.
  • Attention to detail and good problem-solving skills
  • Good attendance record; no culpable absences
  • Effective communication skills with supervisor and team
  • Demonstrates initiative, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn
  • Available for overtime when necessary to meet production goals

The standard schedule for 2nd shift is Monday-Friday, 2:30PM-11:00PM.
The compensation range(s) identified below are a good faith estimate of the salary expected to be paid as performed from these locations. Actual salaries may vary based on compensable factors including but not limited to skillset, experience, education and training, and other relevant business and organizational factors. Most candidates will start in the lower half of the range.
Total Rewards and Benefits
  • Competitive Salary
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, AD&D, and Life Insurance
  • Matching 401(k) Contribution
  • Health Savings Account
  • Up to 3 weeks starting Vacation (may increase with tenure)
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Annual Bonus Eligibility
  • Educational Reimbursement
  • Matching Gift Program
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan - purchase company stock at a discount!

**THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Zurn Elkay, and we will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions.**
Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran