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Apprentice Machine Operator Jobs in Skokie, IL (NOW HIRING)

TekPro

First Shift CNC Turning Machinist

Addison, IL

$26 - $31/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operating and programming CNC lathes and ... Adjust machine settings as needed to maintain tight tolerances and quality standards. * Conduct ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Printer Operator 23

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30.33/hr

Check machines. Analyze types of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Printer Operator 23

Chicago, IL

$30.33/hr

Check machines. Analyze types of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Printer Operator 23

Chicago, IL

$30.33/hr

Check machines. Analyze types of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

Ardagh Group

Printer Operator 23

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30.33/hr

Check machines. Analyze types of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Printer Operator 23

Chicago, IL

$30.33/hr

Check machines. Analyze types of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

Ardagh Group

Printer Operator 23

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30.33/hr

Check machines. Analyze types of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

GCM Inc.

CNC Horizontal Mill Machinist

Addison, IL · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Use machine controls for proper feeds and speeds for maximum efficiency. * Optimize process to ... Journeyman's card/Four-year apprenticeship program. PHYSICAL DEMANDS WHILE PERFORMING THE JOB

GCM

CNC Horizontal Mill Machinist

Addison, IL · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Use machine controls for proper feeds and speeds for maximum efficiency. * Optimize process to ... Journeyman's card/Four-year apprenticeship program. PHYSICAL DEMANDS WHILE PERFORMING THE JOB

TECOMET

2nd Shift CNC Machinist II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

... by operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards; keeping records; maintaining equipment and supplies. The role requires the above to be ...

TECOMET

2nd Shift CNC Machinist II

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... by operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards; keeping records; maintaining equipment and supplies. The role requires the above to be ...

TECOMET

2nd Shift CNC Machinist II

Great Lakes, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

... by operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards; keeping records; maintaining equipment and supplies. The role requires the above to be ...

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All JobsApprentice Machine Operator JobsApprentice Machine Operator Jobs in Skokie, IL

Apprentice Machine Operator information

See Skokie, IL salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice machine operator in Skokie, IL is $19.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice machine operator?

An Apprentice Machine Operator is an entry-level worker who is learning how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot industrial machines under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprentices often work in manufacturing or production settings, where they receive hands-on training and guidance to develop the necessary skills for machine operation. Their tasks typically include setting up machines, monitoring equipment during operation, performing basic maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Over time, apprentices gain the knowledge and experience needed to become fully qualified machine operators.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice machine operators during their training period?

Apprentice Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of a manufacturing floor and learning to troubleshoot machinery under supervision. Mastering safety protocols and understanding the technical nuances of different machines can be demanding at first. Additionally, apprentices must develop effective communication skills to collaborate with experienced operators and maintenance staff, as teamwork is essential for smooth production. However, with hands-on training and mentorship, most apprentices quickly gain confidence and proficiency in their role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes training in CNC or automated systems is typically required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies are essential for maintaining production efficiency, ensuring safety, and supporting smooth operations on the manufacturing floor.

What is the difference between Apprentice Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectApprentice Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some certificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for operating machinery in manufacturing or production settings
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning phaseExperienced, capable of independently operating machinery

The Apprentice Machine Operator is in a training phase, gaining skills under supervision, while the Machine Operator is fully responsible for operating equipment independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career in machine operation by providing hands-on experience and certifications needed for full roles.

How to become an apprentice machine operator with no experience?

To become an apprentice machine operator with no experience, you should look for entry-level apprenticeship programs or training opportunities offered by manufacturing companies. Basic skills in math, reading, and safety procedures are often required, and completing relevant certifications or courses can improve your chances. On-the-job training typically provides hands-on experience with machinery and equipment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Skokie, IL?

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

What cities near Skokie, IL are hiring for Apprentice Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Skokie, IL with the most Apprentice Machine Operator job openings:

Apprentice Machine Operator jobs near you

CNC Milling Set Up Operator - Second Shift

Acme Industries

Elk Grove Village, IL

$28 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The CNC Mill Setup Technician is an experienced, self-sufficient machinist responsible for setting up, proving out, and running complex CNC milling programs on second shift with minimal supervision. This is not an operator role — it is a setup role. The right candidate owns the machine from job launch to last part, troubleshoots independently, holds tight tolerances on high-mix, low-volume aerospace and defense components, and has the instinct and experience to be the last line of defense on second shift.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Perform complete job setups on CNC vertical and/or horizontal machining centers from engineering drawings, routers, and work orders
  • Select, install, and qualify tooling, fixtures, and workholding for each job
  • Prove out new and revised programs; make offsets, edits, and parameter adjustments as needed to achieve first-article approval
  • Run in-process and final inspection using precision measurement tools — micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, dial indicators, and CMM where applicable
  • Read and interpret GD&T and blueprints accurately and independently
  • Diagnose and resolve machine alarms, tooling failures, surface condition issues, and out-of-tolerance conditions without waiting for engineering or programming support
  • Maintain accurate production records, setup sheets, first-article documentation, and non-conformance reports
  • Transition jobs cleanly to operators once setups are proven; document setups clearly for repeatability
  • Support shift continuity by communicating open issues, in-process jobs, and priorities to day shift at turnover
  • Follow all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards; support 5S on the shop floor
  • Participate in cross-training and knowledge transfer as the team grows
Qualifications

Required:

  • 5+ years of CNC milling experience with demonstrated setup responsibility — not operator-only background
  • Ability to set up jobs start to finish independently, including workholding, tooling, and program prove-out
  • Proficiency reading blueprints and GD&T
  • Experience with precision measurement and first-article inspection
  • Ability to troubleshoot out-of-tolerance conditions, tool wear issues, and machine alarms independently
  • Commitment to second shift on a consistent, long-term basis

Preferred:

  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or heavy industrial precision manufacturing
  • Familiarity with FANUC or Siemens controls
  • Exposure to AS9100 or ISO quality management systems
  • Experience with high-mix, low-volume complex component manufacturing
  • Experience informally training or mentoring less experienced operators
What We Offer
  • Competitive hourly wage commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
  • A stable, growing company with 70+ years of history and a long-term ownership mindset
  • Complex, interesting work — high-mix aerospace and defense components, not repetitive production runs
  • Active investment in workforce development and apprenticeship — room to grow into training, lead, and mentorship roles
Core Values

At ACME, we are Dedicated, Persistent, Creative, and Supportive. We're looking for someone who gets the job done, thinks through problems, finds better ways, and helps the team win.

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