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Assistant Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Zekelman Industries

Assistant Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

Reporting to the Production Foreman, the Assistant Operator will safely operate machines and maintain awareness of machine safety requirements. This role involves operating individual equipment on ...

Zekelman

Assistant Operator

Chicago, IL

Reporting to the Production Foreman, the Assistant Operator will safely operate machines and maintain awareness of machine safety requirements. This role involves operating individual equipment on ...

Zekelman

Floater Assistant Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Reporting to the Production Foreman, the Assistant Operator will safely operate machines and maintain awareness of machine safety requirements. This role involves operating individual equipment on ...

Zekelman Industries

Floater Assistant Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Reporting to the Production Foreman, the Assistant Operator will safely operate machines and maintain awareness of machine safety requirements. This role involves operating individual equipment on ...

Ampac Holdings, LLC

Assistant Operator - Press

Granite City, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Troubleshoots equipment malfunctions and perform routine maintenance tasks to keep machinery operating efficiently. * Trains and provides guidance to machine assistants and new crew members. * Keeps ...

ProAmpac

Assistant Operator - Press

Granite City, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Troubleshoots equipment malfunctions and perform routine maintenance tasks to keep machinery operating efficiently. * Trains and provides guidance to machine assistants and new crew members. * Keeps ...

ProAmpac

Assistant Operator - Press

Granite City, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Troubleshoots equipment malfunctions and perform routine maintenance tasks to keep machinery operating efficiently. * Trains and provides guidance to machine assistants and new crew members. * Keeps ...

Pregis

Operator I (Assistant Operator)

Roselle, IL · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Operator I Classification: Hourly Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager Department: Cold Chain pilot equipment Summary of Job The Operator I plays a key role in our production team ...

pregis

Operator I (Assistant Operator)

Roselle, IL

$22 - $26/hr

Operator I Classification: Hourly Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager Department: Cold Chain pilot equipment Summary of Job The Operator I plays a key role in our production team ...

pregis

Operator I (Assistant Operator)

Roselle, IL

$22 - $26/hr

Operator I Classification: Hourly Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager Department: Cold Chain pilot equipment Sign on Bonus: $3,000!!!! Summary of Job The Operator I plays a key role in our ...

Glanbia

Operator I

Taylorville, IL

$20.41/hr

Properly label, fill and tape closed boxes * Assist operator with assigned tasks during production. * Scaling * Able to distinguish material and lot numbers. * Able to identify allergenic material ...

New

Glanbia

Operator I

Taylorville, IL

$19.72/hr

Properly label, fill and tape closed boxes * Assist operator with assigned tasks during production. * Scaling * Able to distinguish material and lot numbers. * Able to identify allergenic material ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Illinois

Assistant Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Illinois is $19.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges assistant operators face during shift changes, and how can they be managed effectively?

Assistant Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as incomplete handovers or miscommunication about ongoing tasks. To manage these effectively, it’s important to follow standardized handover procedures, maintain accurate and up-to-date logs, and communicate proactively with both outgoing and incoming team members. Building strong teamwork and attention to detail helps ensure a smooth transition and minimizes operational disruptions.

Which assistant operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying assistant operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, or power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry, with some positions offering higher compensation due to the complexity of equipment or hazardous environments.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, control panels, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good teamwork skills help you excel in supporting smooth operations. These skills ensure safe, efficient production processes and help maintain workplace safety and productivity.

What is the difference between Assistant Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssistant OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in setup, monitoring, and maintenance of machineryOperates machinery directly, responsible for production output
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, construction, and industrial plantsPrimarily in manufacturing, processing, and production facilities

Assistant Operators support Machine Operators by preparing equipment and monitoring processes, while Machine Operators handle the direct operation of machinery. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in industrial settings, but Machine Operators have more responsibility for operating equipment independently.

What is an assistant operator?

Assistant Operators are entry-level professionals who support the operation of machinery or equipment in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or logistics. They work under the supervision of senior operators to help monitor processes, perform basic maintenance, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Their responsibilities may include setting up machines, loading materials, inspecting products, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Assistant Operators play a key role in maintaining efficient production and minimizing downtime. This position is often a stepping stone to more advanced operator roles.
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 Assistant Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Assistant Operator job openings:
Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,945 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Assistant Operator

Express Employment

Jacksonville, IL

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Assistant Operator

Location: Meredosia, IL
Pay: $15.00 per hour
Schedule: Full-Time

  • 7:00 AM-3:00 PM
  • 3:00 PM-11:00 PM
  • 11:00 PM-7:00 AM

Express Employment Professionals is hiring an Assistant Operator for a growing, locally owned manufacturing company in Meredosia, IL. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career with a company that offers steady work and opportunities for advancement.

Why Apply?

  • Locally owned and growing company
  • Steady, full-time work
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Hands-on manufacturing experience

Responsibilities

  • Keep production lines supplied with raw materials
  • Monitor line feeds both upstairs and downstairs to ensure continuous production
  • Assist the Machine Operator with daily production activities
  • Work with Material Handlers to keep pellet inventory stocked
  • Operate a forklift to transport materials throughout the facility
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment
  • Support efficient production and minimize downtime

Qualifications

  • Previous assembly, manufacturing, or factory experience preferred
  • Forklift experience is a plus
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Dependable with a strong work ethic
  • Ability to lift, stand, and move throughout the shift
  • Team-oriented with good communication skills

Work Environment

This facility is not climate controlled and can be hot during the summer and cold during the winter. Benefits are not currently offered.

Apply today for immediate consideration and land your next manufacturing job!

#2876LI

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About Express Employment Professionals

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Express Employment Professionals, based in Oklahoma City, OK, USA, operates in the staffing industry and is renowned for providing robust and reliable staffing solutions. Their official website - expresspros.com - details their variety of services, which include temporary and full-time staffing, human resources services, and professional search. The company was established in 1983 with the aim of helping as many people as possible to find good jobs, and since then, it has grown exponentially, expanding its reach to various domains within the job market.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Oklahoma City, OK, US

Social media

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