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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

$343 - $360/day

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL This is a full-time, non-exempt level position. Position Summary ... Operating a keyboard * Kneeling and climbing stairs/ladders * Ability to work near or on large ...

AB Specialty Silicones

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

... apprentice operators • Volunteer and work weekends to maintain production demands • Additional duties as assigned. Requirements Job Requirements and Qualifications Work Experience: 1+ years of ...

City of Carbondale, IL

Apprentice Teamster

IL · On-site

$21.81/hr

Driving and operating solid waste vehicles and equipment is required. The Apprentice Teamster follows the lead of the refuse truck driver while on the collection route, but reports, is directly ...

Swiss Automation Inc

CNC Apprentice

Cary, IL · On-site

$18/hr

CNC Apprentice The CNC Apprentice works in a production CNC environment with the expectation of ... Learn how to produce custom precision parts by operating Multi-axis CNC Swiss-style machines ...

Swiss Automation Inc

CNC Apprentice

Barrington, IL · On-site

$18/hr

CNC Apprentice The CNC Apprentice works in a production CNC environment with the expectation of ... Learn how to produce custom precision parts by operating Multi-axis CNC Swiss-style machines ...

Mister Sparky

Apprentice Electrician

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

JOB SUMMARY An apprentice will assist lead electricians in the completion of all jobs while ... Each franchise location is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Illinois

Apprentice Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Illinois is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice operator?

Apprentice Operators are entry-level workers who are learning to operate machinery or equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. They typically participate in a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. The goal is to develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to perform the operator role independently. Apprentice Operators are common in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, and construction, where hands-on training is essential. Their responsibilities may include monitoring equipment, assisting with maintenance, and following safety procedures.

What can I expect during my first few months as an apprentice operator?

During your initial months as an Apprentice Operator, you'll primarily focus on learning operational procedures, safety protocols, and equipment handling under the guidance of experienced operators. You'll rotate through different stations, participate in hands-on training, and gradually take on more responsibility as you demonstrate competence. Close supervision and feedback are typical, as safety and accuracy are paramount in this role. Expect to work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration and clear communication are essential for smooth operations and troubleshooting.

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

To thrive as an Apprentice Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes entry-level certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation of machinery, which is critical to maintaining production standards and workplace safety.

What is the difference between Apprentice Operator vs Operator?

AspectApprentice OperatorOperator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training settingFull operational environment
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level rolesFull-time operational roles in manufacturing, utilities

The main difference between an Apprentice Operator and an Operator is experience and certification level. Apprentice Operators are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Operators have completed training and are fully responsible for operations. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Operators handle daily operational tasks independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,652 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

On-site

$343 - $360/day

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 366 rated logistics

Job description

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL
This is a full-time, non-exempt level position.
Position Summary:
  • The ARTCO Pilot Apprentice Program is designed to develop our most qualified internal candidates into industry leading Captains. ARTCO is confident that graduated Pilot Apprentice will be sufficiently trained to safely and efficiently operate towing vessels on the Inland Waterways.
  • Pay-  $343-$360 Range/Daily Rate
Job Responsibilities:
  • Complete the core components of the Pilot Apprentice program, including, but not limited to, Vessel Familiarization and Operations; Watch Standing; Environmental Protection; Safety and Emergency Response; Rules of the Road; Maneuvering; and Leadership
  • Additional duties and responsibilities as required or requested
Job Requirements:
  • Current, or ability to obtain, Apprentice Mate (Steersman) license
  • Successful completion and favorable evaluation of the Pilot Apprentice Program Tiers 1 through 3 as specified in the Pilot Apprentice Program guidelines
  • Promote the ADM Way and core Values
  • Ability to manage a diverse team
  • Able to communicate with all levels of the organization
  • Must have a demonstrated history of safe work behavior and a sincere desire to follow and improve upon safety policies and procedures
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Outlook, and Word
  • Problem solving and conflict resolution
  • Critical and creative thinking
  • Demonstrate time management and organization skills
  • Ability to coach, mentor, engage and develop workforce
  • Participate and lead strategic discussions and decisions
  • Complete trainings and attend meetings as required
  • Ability to work extended hours, evenings, weekends and Holidays 
  • Reliable transportation to and from work
  • Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card required.  If you do not have a TWIC card upon hire, you must apply for one within 5 days.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to safely steer a vessel
  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors and in varying conditions such as hot, cold, dusty, etc.
  • Standing and sitting for prolonged periods of time
  • Operating a keyboard
  • Kneeling and climbing stairs/ladders
  • Ability to work near or on large bodies of water, at various heights and in confined spaces
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:106361BR

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