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Cutter Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Cutter Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$18

$23

How much do cutter operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cutter operator in Chicago, IL is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a cutter operator might face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Cutter Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision under tight deadlines, handling varying material types, and ensuring safety while operating machinery. To manage these, it's important to stay attentive to detail, regularly calibrate equipment, and communicate effectively with team members about job specifications or issues. Many facilities also offer ongoing training and encourage operators to participate in safety and quality improvement initiatives, which can help address these challenges and support professional growth.

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

To thrive as a Cutter Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial cutting machines, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in machine operation or OSHA compliance are typically required. Excellent hand-eye coordination, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in this role. These competencies ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe workplace.

What is the difference between Cutter Operator vs Fabric Cutter?

AspectCutter OperatorFabric Cutter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, machinery operation skillsHigh school diploma, fabric handling, cutting machine operation
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsTextile mills, garment factories, production facilities
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, industrial productionApparel, textile, fashion industries
Common Search IntentJob duties, skills, certificationsFabric cutting techniques, tools, industry roles

The main difference between a Cutter Operator and a Fabric Cutter is that the Cutter Operator typically operates various cutting machinery in industrial settings, focusing on machine operation and safety. In contrast, a Fabric Cutter specializes in manually or semi-automatically cutting fabric pieces for garment production. Both roles require knowledge of safety procedures and machinery, but the Cutter Operator often handles a broader range of equipment, while the Fabric Cutter emphasizes fabric handling and precision cutting techniques.

How much does a laser cutter operator make?

A laser cutter operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications or advanced knowledge of CAD software may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or fabrication environments that require precision and safety compliance.

What is a cutter operator?

Cutter Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machines that cut materials such as paper, fabric, or metal to specific sizes and shapes. They set up, adjust, and maintain cutting equipment, ensuring precision and safety during the cutting process. Cutter Operators often work in manufacturing, printing, or textile industries and must follow detailed instructions and measurements. Their role is crucial for producing consistent, high-quality products according to specifications.
Cutter Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cutter Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,884 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Bandsaw Meat Cutter Operator

Buckhead Meat and Seafood

Roselle, IL

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

*No experience required

* No se requiere experiencia

JOB SUMMARY

  • Accurately cut to trim and yield specifications as specified by information provided by cut tickets
  • Provide communication to the supervisor of any discrepancies between cutting tickets and normal customer purchases
  • Pull raw materials and pre-cut inventory according to code dates and report any short shelf-life items to the supervisor
  • Properly label all products and equipment to conform to all legal and safety regulations
  • Properly and accurately record all necessary data to produce assigned cutting yield tests
  • Accurately count product inventory levels and maintain levels set forth by the supervisor
  • Ensure that all product specifications are being met according to guidelines
  • Maintain work areas in compliance with U.S.D.A. guidelines
  • Assemble and tear down any equipment in the work area at the beginning and/or end of your shift
  • Properly clean, store and maintain all knives, scales, etc. assigned to you
  • Manage profitability by achieving product yields and meeting deadlines for product readiness
  • Complete other duties as assigned
  • To know and understand the companys safety and health goals and its objectives. Assist the company in achieving these goals by participating in the safety program
  • To help develop and follow all safe work practices
  • To give a written report of unsafe conditions or unsafe acts to management
  • To report all accidents, injuries or illnesses to my supervisor immediately
  • Prior experience with portion cutting meat
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations and conversions to determine the amounts and sizes of products needed for orders
  • Ability to read, write and communicate in the English language

Skills

  • Ability to adjust to sudden changes in customer demands or operational goals
  • Commitment to work until the job is completed
  • Interacts well with others
  • Good team player
  • Results-oriented
  • Customer-service oriented
  • Detail-oriented


Physical Demands and Working Environment

  • Physical strength to lift and maneuver 50-60 pounds
  • Standing, stooping and climbing are regular activities for this employee
  • The employee must have the ability to negotiate throughout the production and warehouse areas unassisted without disrupting regular production and warehousing activities.
  • Normal levels of eyesight and hearing after correction
  • Color vision is required
  • The ability to touch, feel, manipulate fingers and limbs to operate various processing and material handling equipment is necessary
  • The ability to smell is required, in order to detect levels of wholesomeness and spoilage
  • This position requires the candidate to be in refrigerated processing and warehouse areas
  • These areas are cold and wet and exposure to moving machinery and sharp surfaces are a regular occurrence
  • This is a high noise area
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
Required
    Preferred
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