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Clean Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Clean Operator information

What is a clean operator?

Clean Operators are professionals responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in industrial, commercial, or manufacturing environments. Their duties often include operating specialized cleaning equipment, following strict protocols for sanitization, and ensuring that workspaces meet safety and cleanliness standards. Clean Operators play a vital role in preventing contamination, especially in industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. They may also handle hazardous materials and must adhere to regulatory and workplace safety guidelines. Attention to detail and knowledge of cleaning procedures are essential skills for this role.

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

To thrive as a Clean Operator, you need a solid understanding of cleaning protocols, attention to detail, and basic literacy skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial cleaning equipment, chemical handling procedures, and safety certifications such as OSHA or COSHH is typically required. Reliability, time management, and the ability to follow instructions are critical soft skills that distinguish top performers. These competencies ensure a safe, hygienic environment and compliance with industry standards, which are vital for the overall success and safety of the workplace.

What are some common challenges clean operators face when working in fast-paced industrial environments?

Clean Operators often work in settings where maintaining strict cleanliness and safety standards is crucial. Common challenges include managing time effectively to complete cleaning tasks without disrupting production, adapting to changing schedules, and handling specialized equipment or chemicals safely. Teamwork is essential, as Clean Operators regularly coordinate with production staff and supervisors to ensure all areas meet compliance requirements. Staying organized and proactive in identifying potential hazards can help overcome these challenges and contribute to a safe, efficient workplace.

What is the difference between Clean Operator vs Janitorial Worker?

AspectClean OperatorJanitorial Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic training often provided
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, manufacturing, or commercial facilities; operating cleaning machineryCommercial buildings, offices, schools; general cleaning tasks
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing plants, warehouses, industrial sitesCleaning service companies, schools, offices

While both roles involve cleaning tasks, a Clean Operator typically works with specialized cleaning equipment in industrial or commercial settings, requiring specific training. In contrast, a Janitorial Worker performs general cleaning duties in various facilities, often with minimal specialized equipment. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit based on skills and work environment.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Clean Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Clean Operator job openings:

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Clean Harbors

Chicago, IL • On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Clean Harbors rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Clean Harbors’ National Remediation team is seeking Traveling Heavy Equipment Operators. The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate a variety of equipment, such as, backhoes, bulldozers, loader, screeners, excavators as well as other equipment. Candidates must also be willing and able to perform manual labor as required. 
Travel Requirements: Equipment Operator (95-100% Travel). The typical travel rotation for this group is 6 weeks out on a project (not coming home on weekends) and then 1 week off. Flying is required to get to project locations unless it is a local job.

Location: Illinois is preferred, all other locations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Pay Info: $26-32 DOE

Per Diem available while traveling, individual accommodations provided- single occupancy room with kitchenette- typically a long-term type of hotel property. Prevailing wage and overtime available depending on the job site.

**Year-round consistent work with time off every 6 weeks to recharge. 
Position Overview:

  • The Heavy Equipment Operator (Traveling) operates heavy equipment such as bulldozers, compactors, excavators, etc.
  • This individual will work either at a Clean Harbors facility or at a customer location. 
  • This position will require 95% travel in all 48 contiguous states (all travel expenses are covered). 

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5;
  • Competitive wages - Based on Experience;
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment;
  • Group 401K with company matching component;
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement;
  • Positive and safe work environments;
  • Opportunities for advancement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Competent and proficient operation of the following: excavator (60K LB and up), front end loader (3CY and up), articulating dump truck (25CY and up), bulldozer (150HP and up), motor grader, soil compactor, articulating water truck, compact loader, compact excavator, and other construction equipment.  Minimum of 10-years of experience operating this type of equipment;
  • Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor;
  • Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required;
  • Assures unit is never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is inconsistent with Standard Operating Procedures;
  • Complete and submits all associated paperwork as required for waste tracking.
  • Perform occasional labor work;
  • Ensuring that Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and acting in a safe manner at all times;
  • Other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

What does it take to work for Clean Harbors?

  • 3+ years of previous experience in operating heavy equipment required;
  • Previous experience operating Bull Dozers, and Excavators required;
  • Previous construction experience (Earthworks) preferred;
  • Must be able to travel 95-100% - Schedule 6 weeks traveling followed by 1-week home PAID;
  • Current valid driver license with an acceptable driving record required.

Physical Requirements

  • This position is physically demanding, and candidates must be able to navigate varying site conditions where steep slopes and rugged terrain may be present and walk several miles per day. Candidates must be able to lift 50 pounds unassisted and wear personal protective equipment that may restrict movement, when required.
  • Requires walking and standing for extended periods of time, sitting in equipment that may vibrate or jostle, climbing and working at heights, pulling/pushing, carrying, grasping, reaching, crawling, stooping, crouching, and balance. Requires speaking, listening, understanding, and writing English; color determination, depth perception, clarity of vision, and 20/20 eyesight (corrected or uncorrected).
  • Maintains a clean and organized work environment, and a clean personal appearance. Facial hair must always comply with the company’s respiratory protection facial hair policy.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.  

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.  

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.  

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.  

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.  

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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US