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Area Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$19 - $22.50/hr

Maintain clean and orderly work assigned work area * Operators must also recognize the negative impacts that result in not following documented standards * All Operators are to inspect products that ...

Processing Operator II, Multi-Area 7pm- 7am

Mounds, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Processing Operator II, Multi Area Location: MD Department: Processing Reports To: Processing Supervisor Job Overview: Processing Operator II is responsible for operating dryer and mill room to ...

Processing Operator II, Multi-Area 7pm- 7am

Mounds, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Processing Operator II, Multi Area Location: MD Department: Processing Reports To: Processing Supervisor Job Overview: Processing Operator II is responsible for operating dryer and mill room to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Area Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do area operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for area operator in Illinois is $19.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Area Operator vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectArea OperatorMaintenance Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications vary by industryHigh school diploma; technical certifications or vocational training often required
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, factories, or plants; operating equipment and monitoring processesIndustrial or commercial settings; performing repairs and preventive maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, or processing industriesManufacturing, facilities management, or industrial sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Area Operator and a Maintenance Technician lies in their primary responsibilities. An Area Operator focuses on operating equipment and monitoring processes within a specific area, while a Maintenance Technician specializes in repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, often found in manufacturing or industrial settings. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and interests.

What is an area operator?

An area operator is a worker responsible for managing and maintaining equipment or systems within a specific geographic or operational zone. They often monitor operations, perform inspections, and ensure safety and efficiency, typically using tools like radios or control panels. This role may require technical skills, safety certifications, and adherence to operational procedures.
What are popular job titles related to Area Operator jobs in Illinois? For Area Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Area Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Area Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Area Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,109 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Machine Operator

Accurate Personnel LLC

Elgin, IL • On-site

$19 - $22.50/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

HIRING IMMEDIATELY: MACHINE OPERATOR IN ELGIN, IL
Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our team in Elgin, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for handling the computer numerical control machine (lathes, grinders, heat-treat). Maintaining, setting, and adjusting the machine are all part of the operator's daily tasks. The ideal candidate will possess a high school diploma, ability to read and interpret piece part drawings, and more listed below. Apply online and kickstart your career today!

Pay, Schedule, and Location
  • Starting at $19-$22.50/hour
  • Excellent benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision
  • 1st shift ($19), 2nd shift ($21.50), 3rd shift ($22.50)
  • Located in Elgin, Illinois

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operators must follow all Safety, Quality, fabrication rules and equipment maintenance requirements as documented in the company’s quality system
  • Operators are responsible for operating computer numerical control machines (“CNC”) (Latches, grinders, turning, and heat treat equipment) for metal component parts
  • Monitor equipment functions
  • Maintain all oil and coolant levels, clean out chips from all lathes empty chip hoppers and scrap, complete recuts and repairs
  • Maintain clean and orderly work assigned work area
  • Operators must also recognize the negative impacts that result in not following documented standards
  • All Operators are to inspect products that are received to line and before it leaves their process.
  • Once job specific training has been verified operators will then aid in the training of new operators
  • Keeps management and technical support aware of any need for assistance with safety, quality or machine operations issues
  • You are responsible for ensuring the machine produces high quality products, runs smoothly and at capacity, and is properly maintained
  • Any other duties assigned by manager

Requirements and Qualifications
  • High School Diploma
  • Six months minimum experience operating a CNC lathe and or machining center responsible for loading parts, inspecting parts, changing offsets and tooling.
  • Must be able to read and interpret piece part drawings and make decisions regarding part quality and offset changes.
  • Experience with Okuma or FANUC equipment types and controls strongly preferred
  • Must have experience using measuring tools such as drop indicators, dial bore gauges, plug gauges and calipers.
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment running multiple production lines.
  • Willing to perform light preventative maintenance on equipment during the shift.
  • Must be able to lift 12-20 lbs. on a regular basis for an 8-12 hour period.
  • Must be able to stand for an entire 8-12 hour shift.

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(Salary range based on experience)
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ABOUT ACCURATE PERSONNEL
Do you need your next job fast? Accurate Personnel is here to help! As an industry-leading full-service staffing agency, we have all the tools you need to start earning that next paycheck soon. Send us your application and our team will instantly get to work on finding you the right placement to fit your needs. Accurate Personnel has provided temporary job services and direct hire searches for 45 years. Our expertise has allowed us to grow from a regional Chicagoland office into a nationwide search firm that services over 500 clients while never losing sight of personalized service. Let Accurate work for you. Apply with us today!
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Accurate Personnel provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

(ELGB)