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Associate Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Aampower

Operator Level 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Job Posting Title Operator Level 1 Summary The Operator Level 1 is responsible for visually ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

RICH PRODUCTS

Operator - Machine

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$20.01/hr

With more than 13,500 associates working globally in 100 countries and annual sales of $5.9 billion ... Purpose Statement The operator is responsible for setting up and changing equipment based upon ...

Cintas

Warehouse Associate - High Bay Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.40 - $22.98/hr

Requisition Number: 232350 Cintas is seeking a Warehouse Associate - High Bay Operator to stock cases in our distribution center utilizing a cherry picker/forklift which raises 30 feet in the air.

RICH PRODUCTS

Operator - Machine

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$19.01/hr

With more than 13,500 associates working globally in 100 countries and annual sales of $5.9 billion ... Purpose Statement The Machine Operator controls machinery in a safe, sanitary, cost-effective, and ...

RICH PRODUCTS

Operator - Machine

Crest Hill, IL

$19.01/hr

With more than 13,500 associates working globally in 100 countries and annual sales of $5.9 billion ... Purpose Statement The Machine Operator controls machinery in a safe, sanitary, cost-effective, and ...

Capstone Logistics

Forklift Operator

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$800 - $900/wk

Warehouse Associate Opportunity People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance ... Capstone is a North American supply chain solutions partner with more than 650 operating locations ...

Malone

Sitdown Forklift Operator

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$19.95/hr

... Associate Benefits: Medical Plan (including MEC, MEC Plus and MVP plans), Dental and other ... Subject to plan guidelines* #cr1 Now Hiring - Sit-Down Forklift Operators - 1st & 2nd Shift ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Switchboard Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$18.85 - $28.30/hr

... associates and all other callers. * 6)Determine what action to take when an immediate problem ... operator(s). * 8)Keep work area clean and safe. * Follows proper procedure for all aspects of ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Operator JobsAssociate Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Operator information

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate operator?

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

Which associate operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying associate operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size.

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 Associate Operator jobs?

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

Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Operator - Machine

Rich Products Corporation

Crest Hill, IL • On-site

$19.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Rich's, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. With more than 13,500 associates working globally in 100 countries and annual sales of $5.9 billion, Rich's is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich's®-Infinite Possibilities. One Family.
Purpose Statement
The Machine Operator controls machinery in a safe, sanitary, cost-effective, and efficient manner that meets company food safety and quality standards. Also maximizing product quality / attractiveness through strong leadership and achieve individual outputs to support your team in meeting their production goals.
Key Accountabilities and Outcomes
  • Observes all safety rules and regulations including use of personal protective equipment.
  • Follows all established Good Manufacturing Practices, including maintaining an orderly and clean workarea.
  • Must be able to set up, change over, adjust, repair and operate all machinery and equipment.
  • Ensures all equipment is in operating condition and ready for on time startup.
  • Must have the knowledge and experience to make necessary adjustments to keep products flowing consistently.
  • Performs process control and quality checks.
  • Operates date coders and verifies code dates on cases.
  • Cleans all equipment using current sanitation practices.
  • Assists Quality Assurance in obtaining samples of products and other miscellaneous duties. Responsible for basic troubleshooting of all processing equipment.
  • Responsible for accurate, timely and legible completion of daily production reports/documents.
  • Trains new associates.
  • Performs any other miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 1+ years Machine operator experience required.
  • Basic computer skills including Excel and Word.
  • Must be able to take direction and follow instructions.
  • Self-motivated and ability to take initiative and use sound judgment in day-to-day decision making.
  • Punctual and reliable in work attendance.
  • Ability to organize and communicate to all levels of personnel.
  • Flexible and able to manage others.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Excellent English communication skills required, bilingual speaker a plus.

COMPENSATION
In accordance with state law, the rate or range provided is Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Rich's"), reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may be higher or lower, based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, shift differential, and location.
Annual Range/Hourly Rate
$19.01 - $19.01
Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Rich's"), are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity, standing up for fairness and maintaining a culture of belonging, to provide an exceptional experience for all. We will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity, and maintain employment statistics on applicants.
Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Rich's. Please contact Rich's Associate Experience Network at hrhelp@rich.com if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process.
BRINGING YOUR BEST SELF TO WORK.
As a family-owned company, caring for our associates-their whole selves-is a top priority. That's why we provide benefits and tools to help our people balance the integration of work and life:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Health & financial benefits
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Family planning support
  • Flexible work policy
  • Associate resource groups
  • Volunteering & community impact opportunities
  • Holiday gatherings
  • In-house taste tests (we are a food company after all)!

It's all part of how we support our family of associates. Because in the company of family, all things are possible.
MEET RICH'S.
Rich's, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. With over 13,500 associates working in 100 locations globally, and annual sales at $5.9 billion, Rich's is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich's®-Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

Apply