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Edm Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a CNC Operator/Programmer to join the team at our Norridge, IL location. Are you ... Conduct planning sessions with tool room staff to decide on project CNC machining and EDM ...

CNC Machinist

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

Collaborative culture with a skilled team of toolroom machinists, production machine operators ... press, Wire EDM. * Must be able to manage multiple priorities and easily adapt to changing ...

Machinist

Crete, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

... operating a wide range of machine tools to produce various parts that meet time, safety, and ... jets, EDM machines, and mechanical rebuilds. * Interpret oral and written instructions from ...

Machinist

Crete, IL

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

... operating a wide range of machine tools to produce various parts that meet time, safety, and ... jets, EDM machines, and mechanical rebuilds. * Interpret oral and written instructions from ...

CNC Machinist

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

Collaborative culture with a skilled team of toolroom machinists, production machine operators ... press, Wire EDM. * Must be able to manage multiple priorities and easily adapt to changing ...

Machinist

Crete, IL

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

... operating a wide range of machine tools to produce various parts that meet time, safety, and ... jets, EDM machines, and mechanical rebuilds. * Interpret oral and written instructions from ...

Machinist

Crete, IL · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

... operating a wide range of machine tools to produce various parts that meet time, safety, and ... jets, EDM machines, and mechanical rebuilds. * Interpret oral and written instructions from ...

Skills: * Technical knowledge and experience with desktop hardware and operating systems ... EDM, MDM, TCP/IP, DNS, Chrome, Teams/Zoom, ITSM/ITIL best practices. Education/Experience: * An ...

Showing results 21-40

Edm Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$23

$31

How much do edm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for edm operator in Chicago, IL is $23.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $26.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an EDM operator do?

The job duties of an EDM or electrical discharge machine operator include the setup and programming of EDM equipment to ensure proper functionality when making precision parts for tool-makers and designers. As an EDM operator, you may work with multiple thru wire EDM machines or sinker EDM machining solutions. Your responsibilities are to measure, mark, and document dimensions of materials, program CAD, CAM, and Agie software applications, perform G-code programming of wired EDM machines, monitor the EDM machining process, and inspect finished products.

What is the difference between Edm Operator vs CNC Machinist?

AspectEdm OperatorCNC Machinist
Required CredentialsTechnical diploma or certification in EDM or manufacturingTechnical diploma or certification in machining or manufacturing
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities with EDM machinesMachine shops or manufacturing plants with CNC equipment
Industry UsageCommon in precision manufacturing, aerospace, toolingWidely used in metalworking, automotive, aerospace
Job FocusSetting up and operating EDM machines for precision partsProgramming, setting up, and operating CNC machines for various parts

While both roles involve machining and manufacturing, Edm Operators focus on operating electrical discharge machines for precision work, whereas CNC Machinists work with computer-controlled milling or turning machines. Both roles require technical skills and are vital in manufacturing industries, but they differ in equipment and specific processes.

What is an EDM operator?

EDM Operators are skilled technicians who operate Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM) to precisely shape metal parts and components. They set up, program, and monitor EDM equipment to cut, drill, or form complex shapes in hard materials that are difficult to machine using traditional methods. EDM Operators are essential in manufacturing industries such as aerospace, automotive, and tool-making, where high precision and intricate detailing are required. Their responsibilities also include maintaining equipment, ensuring quality control, and troubleshooting issues during the machining process.

What jobs are in the EDM operator world?

Jobs related to EDM operators include roles such as electronic dance music (EDM) production technician, sound engineer, DJ, lighting technician, and stage manager. These positions often require knowledge of audio equipment, mixing software, and live event setup, with some roles demanding certifications or experience in audio engineering or event production.

What are some common challenges faced by EDM operators and how can they be addressed on the job?

EDM Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, managing tool wear, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Staying organized and attentive to detail is crucial, as even small errors can lead to costly rework. Collaborating closely with engineers and maintenance staff helps address technical issues efficiently. Continuous learning about new EDM technologies and regular preventive maintenance are key strategies to minimize downtime and ensure consistent quality.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an EDM operator?

To thrive as an EDM Operator, you need a solid background in machining, blueprint reading, and precision measurement, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant experience. Familiarity with electrical discharge machines (EDM), CNC programming, and CAD/CAM software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong organizational skills help operators maintain quality and efficiency. These capabilities are vital to ensure accurate production of complex components and minimize errors in a high-precision manufacturing environment.
What are popular job titles related to Edm Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Edm Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Edm Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Edm Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Edm Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,622 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Sinker EDM Applications Engineer

MC Machinery Systems, Inc.

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Title: SEDM Applications Engineer
Department: Sales Engineering


DESCRIPTION:

Primary purpose of this job function is to exercise independent judgment and discretion to resolve application-related machine operation problems of company/customers. In addition, job incumbent must be able to exercise independent discretion and judgment to determine best training methodologies and train customers on how to process material in a production environment in an effort to improve/enhance the performance of industrial machinery. Collaborate with Applications Engineers to prepare and carry out marketing efforts with the purpose of securing business from prospective customers. Support sales efforts by performing test cuts and demonstrations for prospective customers. Regional applications engineers focus primarily within the territory they are assigned to but can be utilized throughout North America as needed.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Independently review, evaluate and resolve applications-related problems at customer sites with the overall intention of improving and enhancing performance of customer’s electrical discharge machinery
  • Provide timely, appropriate responses and resolutions to customer reports, and as necessary, determine whom else at MC Machinery to involve in customer problem solving
  • Exercise independent judgement and discretion to create solutions for customers in addressing applications-related problems
  • Diagnose application-related problems and troubleshoot via telephone
  • Increase sales and MC Machinery revenue by identifying customer opportunities for sales and engaging in such activity when so identified
  • Provide high power processing training to customers (and in some events other MC Machinery employees) with the overall intention of instructing and/or recommending methods that will improve and enhance the performance of the machinery and optimize its usage for their particular needs
  • Exercise independent judgement and discretion to create training programs for customers
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with customers
  • Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Ability to work independently and use judgement to determine customer problems without direct supervision
  • Ability to interact with customers in a way so as to maintain customer confidence in MC Machinery and MC Machinery product
  • Ability to identify opportunities to sell customers additional MC Machinery products and to sell product in such opportunities
  • Considerable knowledge and the ability to apply the principles and practices of application engineering to the functionality of electrical discharge machinery
  • Comprehensive mastery of applicable industry standards and the ability to draw upon that knowledge to create innovative solutions to customers’ challenges
  • Knowledge and ability to apply industry standards that may not be completely applicable to the work and may require adaptation, modification or deviation
  • Ability to effectively document and communicate ideas, strategies, problems and solutions in both verbal and written forms to colleagues and customers
  • Ability to create strategic and effective solutions to customers’ problems
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices or application engineering to electrical discharge machinery
  • Working knowledge of CAD/CAM software and its functions
  • CNC programming skills
  • Ability to operate computer using windows operating systems
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, team environment
  • Travel if necessary, current valid drivers’ license required

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

A minimum of 2 or more years of experience operating, programming, setting up and developing processes for electrical discharge machinery is preferred. Training may be provided for the candidate that has 2 or more years of machine shop experience.