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Boring Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

As a Machine Operator at Caterpillar Pontiac, you will operate, set up and adjust automatic lathes or numerically controlled drilling and boring machines to perform various combinations of machining ...

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Run machining operations such as drilling, boring, tapping, and milling to print requirements. * Use precision gauges and measuring instruments to verify parts and make offsets/adjustments as needed.

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CNC Machine Operator

West Chicago, IL

$21 - $28.50/hr

DESCRIPTION Machine Operators produce machined parts under close supervision by operating computer ... Change reamers, drills, and boring bars, live and static. * Read and understand tool layout sheets ...

CNC Machine Operator

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

DESCRIPTION Machine Operators produce machined parts under close supervision by operating computer ... Change reamers, drills, and boring bars, live and static. * Read and understand tool layout sheets ...

Drill Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$300 - $400/day

Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery ... Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications; * Ability to sit, stand, bend ...

Drill Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$300 - $400/day

Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery ... Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications; * Ability to sit, stand, bend ...

Machinist - Roscoe, IL

Roscoe, IL · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

As a Machine Operator for H&S, you'll be setting up and operating Boring Mills, Lathes, Hobbing, and Grinding Machines to machine industrial gearing parts to specific tolerances. Experience running ...

COM Job Duties: * 2+ years of experience operating similar manual machinery. * Operate a variety of ... boring machines. * Inspect machined product to ensure quality standards have been met. * Cuts ...

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Boring Machine Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$20

$29

How much do boring machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for boring machine operator in Illinois is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Boring Machine Operator Do?

In manufacturing and materials fabrication, a boring machine operator controls a boring machine or similar drilling or mill machine to bore, ream, or drill holes in different materials, such as metal and plastic. Your responsibilities include the set-up, calibration, and maintenance of the machinery and other tools. Your duties are to read technical specifications and operate the machines to drill holes in the objects. This may involve calibrating CNC equipment or other computer controlled machinery at the production facility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boring Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To excel as a Boring Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining principles, blueprint reading, and mechanical aptitude, often obtained through vocational training or apprenticeships. Experience with CNC or manual boring machines, familiarity with measurement instruments, and knowledge of safety protocols are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help operators maintain precision and collaborate with team members. These capabilities ensure accurate production, minimize errors, and uphold safety and efficiency standards in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges a Boring Machine Operator may face on the job and how can they be managed?

Boring Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and working with heavy or unwieldy materials. Successfully managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and engineering teams. Regularly inspecting tools, performing preventive maintenance, and staying up-to-date with operating procedures can help minimize downtime and ensure high-quality output.

What is the difference between Boring Machine Operator vs Drilling Machine Operator?

AspectBoring Machine OperatorDrilling Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machine operationHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in drilling equipment
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesConstruction sites, mining operations, oil and gas industries
Industry UsageHeavy machinery manufacturing, metalworking, constructionMining, oil & gas extraction, construction

Both Boring Machine Operators and Drilling Machine Operators work with heavy machinery in industrial settings. While they share similar credentials and work environments, Boring Machine Operators focus on enlarging or finishing holes in metal or concrete, whereas Drilling Machine Operators primarily create new holes for various purposes. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and industry needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Boring Machine Operator jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Boring Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Boring Machine Operator jobs in Illinois? For Boring Machine Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Boring Machine Operator jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Boring Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Boring Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Boring Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Boring Machine Operator jobs in IL? For Boring Machine Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Boring Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,728 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Machine Operator - 3rd shift

Machine Operator - 3rd shift

Caterpillar

Pontiac, IL • On-site

$26.66/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 457 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Operations
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
About Large Power Systems Division (LPSD):
We design and manufacture the most comprehensive lineup of large diesel and natural gas engines in the industry, as well as engine components and powertrains.
Role Definition:
As a Machine Operator at Caterpillar Pontiac, you will operate, set up and adjust automatic lathes or numerically controlled drilling and boring machines to perform various combinations of machining operations on miscellaneous parts. Complex or limited combinations will be performed.
What You Will Do (including but not limited to):
  • Manually operate vertical, horizontal, and multi-axis turret lathes.
  • Adjust single spindle automatic cutoff machines.
  • Advanced blueprint reading.
  • Geometric tolerances.
  • Applying safe working methods.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions (ex. schematics, standard work, and/or blueprints).

Minimum Requirements:
  • A minimum of 12 months experience working in a manufacturing, engine maintenance, or machining role.
  • Ability to follow written instructions (ex. schematics, standard work, and/or blueprints).
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Strong commitment to safety and teamwork.
  • Awareness of Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain (5S) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).

What You Will Get:
Safety in words and actions. Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. We encourage and commit to safety in all processes that we do. We strive to provide a safe and secure work environment for all our employees.
A rewarding career. Our teams are critical to the success of our customers who build a better world. Here you earn more than just wage. Because we value your performance, we offer a total rewards package that provides:
  • Competitive base pay - pay starting at $26.66 an hour
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Paid time off plan
  • 401k savings plan
  • Wellness programs

Additional Information:
  • 3rd shift: Tuesday - Friday 8:00PM - 6:00AM.
  • Starting pay is $26.66 per hour.
  • $1.00 an hour night shift premium.
  • Training completed on 1st shift hours Monday - Friday.
  • Relocation assistance is not available.
  • Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application - please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.

Summary Pay Range:
$0.00 - $0.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
April 21, 2026 - June 21, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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