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

2nd Shift Machine Operator Onsite - Gurnee, IL Who We Are: PurposeBuilt Brands, rooted in a legacy dating back to Weiman, stands as a pioneer in crafting top-tier products for specialty surfaces. Our ...

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Mechanical aptitude and previous machine operating experience. * 1st Shift: Blending/mixing experience required. * 2nd Shift: Previous machine operating experience required (training completed on 1st ...

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Machine Operator 1st Shift

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Title: Machine Operator FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports to: Production Supervisor Supervises: N/A Travel: As needed according to the essential functions of the position Department: Production ...

The Machine Operator is responsible for the production and inspection of all work orders assigned ... Shift Differential: $0.50 Schedule Options: 2nd Shift (Monday - Friday: 3pm-11pm) At Wieland, we ...

The Machine Operator is responsible for the production and inspection of all work orders assigned ... Shift Differential: $0.50 Schedule Options: 2nd Shift (Monday - Friday: 3pm-11pm) At Wieland, we ...

The Machine Operator is responsible for the production and inspection of all work orders assigned ... Shift Differential: $2.00/hr. Schedule Options: 3rd Shift (Monday - Friday: 11 pm - 7 am) At ...

Machine Operators

Burlington, WI · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

2nd Shift Machine Operator Location: Burlington, WI Shift: 2nd Shift | Monday-Friday, 2:45 PM - 11:05 PM Pay Rate: $19.00-$23.00 per hour (Based on Experience) Job Summary We are seeking reliable and ...

The Machine Operator is responsible for the production and inspection of all work orders assigned ... Shift Differential: $0.50 Schedule Options: 2nd Shift (Monday - Friday: 3pm-11pm) At Wieland, we ...

The Machine Operator is responsible for the production and inspection of all work orders assigned ... Shift Differential: $0.50 Schedule Options: 2nd Shift (Monday - Friday: 3pm-11pm) At Wieland, we ...

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1St Shift Machine Operator information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$12

$17

$23

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift machine operator in Gurnee, IL is $17.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.94 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 Gurnee, IL? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Gurnee, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Gurnee, IL? For 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Gurnee, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Gurnee, IL with the most 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings in Gurnee, 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 $36,686 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

1ST SHIFT MACHINE OPERATOR

SMALLEY STEEL RING COMPANY

Lake Zurich, IL • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

About us

Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal formed products - known for our Spirolox retaining rings and Crest-to- Crest wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery - supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers. We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.

Why Smalley?

At Smalley, we take pride in cultivating an inclusive work environment that values creativity, collaboration and diversity. We believe in our associates' unique perspectives that they bring to every challenge, which is why we will empower you to push the boundaries of what is possible. We are committed to nurturing an enjoyable work atmosphere demonstrated through activities such as Spirit Days, Cancer Awareness events, Health and Wellness activities, and fun sports opportunities to play in basketball, bags, and ping pong tournaments!

We Offer

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package as well as: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k match, Life insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO, and more!
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth
  • Ongoing learning and training and development opportunities
  • Company and department led team-building activities and events

Responsibilities:

  • No prior manufacturing experience required, we will train you! Retail and restaurant experience welcomed.
  • Learns independently to operate machines
  • Operates all testing equipment including: micrometers, calipers, etc.
  • Retrieves all gauges, tooling, racks, and materials needed
  • Provides complete, accurate documentation when required
  • Previous experience preferred: machine operating, manufacturing, and blueprints, calipers, and micrometers
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Pass required exam of basic math and English

Apply today and discover the opportunities that await you!

A reasonable estimate of the base salary range for this role is $18.00 - $20.00 USD. Please note that actual salaries may vary within the range, or be above or below the range, based on factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, professional achievement, business need, and location. This role is bonus/and or incentive eligible.

EEO/Affirmative Action Smalley is an equal opportunity employer and believes in equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. Accordingly, all employment decisions are based on the principles of equal opportunity. These decisions include recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, discipline, compensation, benefits, training, and other personnel actions involving persons in all job titles and shall occur without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, ancestry, marital status, or any other legally protected class as recognized by applicable law.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, paid holidays, paid time off and 401(k).