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Assistant Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Jupiter Aluminum

Assistant Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

Assistant Operator Jupiter Aluminum Corporation Hammond, Indiana Apply Now Position Summary The Assistant Operator supports daily production operations by assisting machine operators with material ...

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 · 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 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 ...

Zekelman

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 ...

T&B Tube

Assistant and Mill Operators

Gary, IN · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

MILL OPERATOR / ASSISTANT OPERATOR! Ready to take your manufacturing skills to the next level? Join our team! We're looking for a dependable, hands-on Mill Operator / Assistant Operator to help keep ...

Pratt Industries

Stacker 2nd Shift

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$17.60/hr

Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to the Operator. Assist operator and first helper as necessary. Be willing to move up the line of progression to the Operator regardless of shift.

Pratt Industries

Stacker 2nd Shift

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$17.60/hr

Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to the Operator. Assist operator and first helper as necessary. Be willing to move up the line of progression to the Operator regardless of shift.

Anonymous Employer

Forklift Operator

Hammond, IN

$22/hr

... Assist Operators as needed Perform other duties as directed. JOB REQUIREMENTS As a Material Handler, you will be expected to fulfill the following requirements: Material Handlers may need to lift raw ...

Burgess Norton Mfg Co

Lapper Operator

Geneva, IL

$17 - $22.50/hr

Help train and assist operators as required. * Perform necessary preventative maintenance on machines as required. * Participate in team problem solving as part of the departmental continuous ...

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Assistant Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Chicago, IL is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 significantly higher compensation due to the complexity and risk involved.

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,496 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Assistant Operator

Hammond, IN • On-site

Jupiter Aluminum
Coal, Metals and Minerals Mining • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Jupiter Aluminumexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Assistant Operator
Jupiter Aluminum Corporation
Hammond, Indiana
Apply Now
Job Description
Position Summary
The Assistant Operator supports daily production operations by assisting machine operators with material handling, equipment monitoring, quality checks, and housekeeping activities.
This role helps ensure safe, efficient, and continuous manufacturing operations while maintaining compliance with safety, quality, and production standards.
Key Responsibilities
Production Support
  • Assist operators in the setup, operation, and monitoring of production equipment and machinery.
  • Load and unload materials, parts, or coils using forklifts, hoists, or other material-handling equipment as assigned.
  • Monitor equipment performance and report abnormal conditions, alarms, or malfunctions to the operator or supervisor.
  • Follow work orders, production schedules, and operating procedures to support throughput goals.

Quality & Inspection
  • Perform basic quality checks per work instructions, including visual inspections and measurement verification.
  • Identify and report product defects, process deviations, or nonconforming materials.
  • Accurately complete production and quality documentation.

Equipment & Housekeeping
  • Assist with routine cleaning, lubrication, and basic maintenance tasks.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas in accordance with 5S standards.
  • Support maintenance personnel during equipment repairs or changeovers as directed.

Safety & Compliance
  • Follow all safety rules, procedures, and PPE requirements.
  • Participate in safety training, job safety analyses, and toolbox talks.
  • Report unsafe conditions, near misses, and incidents immediately.
  • Comply with OSHA regulations and Jupiter Aluminum safety policies.

Teamwork & Communication
  • Work collaboratively with operators, supervisors, maintenance, and quality teams.
  • Communicate production issues and material needs clearly and promptly.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives as requested.

Other duties as assigned.
Working Conditions
  • Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, moving equipment, dust, and temperature variations.
  • Required use of PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear.
  • Work performed on rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Prior manufacturing or industrial experience preferred but not required.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to follow work instructions.
  • Forklift or material-handling experience a plus.

Behavioral Competencies
  • Strong safety awareness and adherence to procedures.
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willingness to learn new equipment and processes.
  • Team-oriented with good communication skills.
  • Attention to detail and quality.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work around moving machinery and industrial equipment.
  • Ability to work extended shifts as scheduled.

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Management reserves the right to modify responsibilities as needed.
By choice, Jupiter Aluminum is committed to creating a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability
Job Requirements

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