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Compactor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

KurzSolutions

CRNA - All Sites

Chicago, IL

Certain facilities listed below are found in states that are reciprocity/compact states, while others will require individuals to have licenses for that specific state. To learn more about each ...

KurzSolutions

CRNA - All Sites

Decatur, IL

Certain facilities listed below are found in states that are reciprocity/compact states, while others will require individuals to have licenses for that specific state. To learn more about each ...

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All JobsCompactor JobsCompactor Jobs in Illinois

Compactor information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$26

$49

How much do compactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for compactor in Illinois is $26.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $33.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Compactor vs Loader?

AspectCompactorLoader
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, waste management facilities, recycling plantsConstruction sites, warehouses, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, waste management, recycling industriesConstruction, logistics, material handling industries

Compactors and loaders often share similar certifications and work environments, especially in construction and waste management sectors. While compactors focus on compressing materials, loaders are used for moving and lifting materials. Both roles are essential in construction and waste industries, but they serve different functions on the job site.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Compactors typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or certain skilled trades like elevator installers, which require certifications or extensive experience. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree involve sales, entrepreneurship, or specialized technical skills.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Compactors typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most roles in the compaction industry have lower salary ranges, generally below six figures annually.

What is the work of a compactor?

A compactor's job involves operating machinery to compress and solidify waste, soil, or other materials to reduce volume and improve stability. This role requires knowledge of equipment operation, safety procedures, and often involves working outdoors or in waste management or construction environments.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Compactors, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Compactors often work in environments where heavy machinery and moving vehicles are present, making safety a top priority. Common challenges include maintaining awareness of surroundings, preventing equipment malfunctions, and managing exposure to dust or noise. To address these, employers typically provide comprehensive safety training, require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and enforce strict protocols for equipment maintenance and site communication. Regular safety briefings and clear signage also help ensure a safe work environment.

What are compactors and what do they do?

Compactors are machines or devices used to reduce the size of material through compaction, primarily by applying pressure to compress waste, soil, or other materials. Commonly used in construction, waste management, and recycling, compactors help minimize space needed for disposal or transport. They come in various types, such as trash compactors, plate compactors, and landfill compactors, each designed for specific tasks. By using compactors, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and promote cleaner environments.

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

To thrive as a Compactor, you need a good understanding of heavy machinery operation, basic mechanical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with compactor equipment, safety regulations, and sometimes OSHA certification are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication help ensure safe and efficient work on construction sites. These skills and qualifications are important for maintaining safety standards, minimizing downtime, and achieving project goals efficiently.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level executives, certain medical specialists, or skilled trades like commercial pilots or project managers in large construction projects. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-demand industries with significant responsibilities.
What are popular job titles related to Compactor jobs in Illinois? For Compactor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compactor jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Compactor jobs in Illinois are:
Compactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compactor job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,697 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Baler Compactor Mechanic

Equipment Service Plus LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 hours ago

Job description

Description:

We are seeking an experienced and dependable Baler/Compactor Mechanic to join our maintenance team dispatched out of Chicago. In this role, you will be responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and performing preventive maintenance on balers, compactors, conveyors, and other recycling facility equipment in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical and hydraulic troubleshooting skills and experience working with industrial equipment.


Responsibilities

  • Diagnose and repair horizontal and vertical balers, compactors, and related recycling equipment
  • Perform preventive maintenance (PM) services on balers, conveyors, shredders, and compactors
  • Troubleshoot and repair hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical systems
  • Inspect and repair hydraulic cylinders, pumps, hoses, and valves
  • Perform routine maintenance including lubrication, adjustments, and component replacements
  • Repair or replace worn components such as belts, bearings, motors, and gearboxes
  • Perform welding and metal fabrication as needed for equipment repairs
  • Assist with installation and setup of new equipment when required
  • Maintain accurate maintenance records and complete work orders
  • Ensure all work is performed in compliance with OSHA safety standards and company policies
  • Maintain a clean and safe maintenance work area
Requirements:
  • 2–5 years of experience repairing industrial equipment, balers, or compactors
  • Strong knowledge of hydraulic systems, electrical troubleshooting, and mechanical repairs
  • Experience working in recycling, waste management, manufacturing, or industrial maintenance environments preferred
  • Welding and fabrication experience preferred
  • Ability to read equipment manuals, schematics, and diagrams
  • Must have own basic mechanic tools
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs or more and stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable working in an industrial facility environment

Benefits

Each full-time eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Voluntary Life Insurance, and Short-Term Disability. Employees are also eligible for a 401(k) savings plan with company match, company-sponsored Life and AD&D insurance, paid vacation, holidays, and personal sick days.