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

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Sterling, IL · On-site

$19.40 - $20.01/hr

Role Summary The Machine Operator 3 operates with minimal supervision and is responsible for ... Shift: 1st shift, 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday to Friday * Pay Range: $19.40 - $20.01 Key ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Oregon, IL

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Paint Machine Operator - Multiple Shifts

Sterling, IL · On-site

$18.80 - $19.40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Multiple shifts available: 1st Shift, Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM-2:30 PM; 2nd Shift, Monday-Friday, 3 ... What You'll Do as a Paint Machine Operator * Perform complete machine setups, including tooling ...

Machine Operator

Oregon, IL · On-site

$22.10/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Oregon, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

$19.50 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Production Operator 1st Shift- Oregon

Oregon, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to run production machines making required yields and efficiencies. * Ability to safely ... Prior machine operating experience is helpful * Average computer skills * Attention to detail

Production Operator 1st Shift- Oregon

Oregon, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to run production machines making required yields and efficiencies. * Ability to safely ... Prior machine operating experience is helpful * Average computer skills * Attention to detail

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1St Shift Machine Operator information

See Sterling, IL salary details

$12

$17

$22

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift machine operator in Sterling, IL is $17.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.65 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 Sterling, IL?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Sterling, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Sterling, IL?

For 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Sterling, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Sterling, IL are hiring for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Sterling, IL with the most 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings in Sterling, 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 $36,187 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

MacLean-Fogg

Sterling, IL • On-site

$19.40 - $20.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


MacLean-Fogg rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Role Summary
The Machine Operator 3 operates with minimal supervision and is responsible for independently performing complete machine setups, conducting detailed inspections, troubleshooting recurring production issues, and recommending process improvements. This role requires strong technical proficiency and a deep understanding of machine functions and production processes. Advanced operators are accountable for the quality, efficiency, and consistency of their assigned production runs and play a key role in maintaining equipment reliability. They also provide guidance to less experienced operators, serve as a technical resource for routine challenges, and actively contribute to efficiency and quality improvements across their work area.
Job Details
  • Position Type: Full-time
  • Work Location: Sterling, IL
  • Shift: 1st shift, 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday to Friday
  • Pay Range: $19.40 - $20.01
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform complete machine setups, including tooling changes, calibration, and adjustments
  • Conduct first piece and in-process inspections using precision measurement equipment
  • Troubleshoot and resolve routine production issues independently, escalating complex problems when required
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications with proficiency
  • Recommend process improvements to enhance safety, efficiency, or quality
  • Accurately document production data, downtime, and corrective actions
  • Support preventive maintenance by identifying equipment wear, damage, or recurring problems
  • Provide informal guidance and assistance to Levels 1 and 2 operators
  • Collaborate with quality and maintenance teams to ensure smooth production operations
  • Participate in continuous improvement and 5S initiatives
  • Maintain machine cleanliness and contribute to daily care requirements
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support production goals
Qualifications (Required)
  • Education: None
  • Experience: 2-3 years of prior machine operator experience
  • Strong blueprint reading and technical interpretation skills
  • Proficiency with precision measurement tools
  • Demonstrated ability to perform setups independently

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods up to 12-hour shifts
  • Regularly lift, carry, push, or pull up to 35 to 50 lbs
  • Manual dexterity for tool changes, adjustments, and material handling
  • Visual acuity for precision inspections and reading technical drawings
  • Tolerance for manufacturing environments with noise, vibration, dust, oil and temperature variations
  • Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)

#ff-dd-ov
Division Mallard Manufacturing Locations Sterling, IL (Mallard Rd) Hourly salary $19.4 - $20.01 Employment type Full-time Work Schedule Category Day / 1st Shift FLSA Status Non-Exempt Division Mallard Manufacturing

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