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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Jessup Manufacturing Company

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Title Machine Operator 1 jOB # JD-012 Date February 09, 2018 FLSA Non-Exempt LOCATION Lake Bluff ... Performs other duties as assigned by department supervisor EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE * Entry level ...

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Entry Level Machine Operator information

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$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in Illinois is $16.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level machine operator?

An Entry Level Machine Operator is responsible for running and monitoring machinery in a manufacturing or production setting. They ensure machines operate efficiently, perform basic maintenance, and inspect products for quality. Training is typically provided on-site, and the role requires attention to detail and the ability to follow safety guidelines. This position is ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in a technical or industrial field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level machine operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Machine Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer or measurement tools, such as calipers, is often required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you adapt and excel in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure the operator can safely and efficiently produce quality products while minimizing downtime or errors.

What does a typical workday look like for an entry level machine operator?

A typical day for an entry level machine operator involves setting up and monitoring machines, inspecting products for quality, and troubleshooting minor issues that may arise during production. You’ll likely work alongside a team of operators and supervisors, following established schedules and safety procedures to ensure smooth operations on the manufacturing floor. Collaboration is often necessary for resolving problems or improving workflow, and you may be cross-trained on different equipment over time. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for future advancement into specialized or supervisory roles.

How to become an entry level machine operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level machine operator, focus on gaining basic technical skills, such as understanding machinery and safety procedures. Completing a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, and some employers offer on-the-job training or certification programs to develop necessary skills.

How to get started as an entry level machine operator?

To start as an entry-level machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Many employers provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with machinery, safety procedures, and basic math can be beneficial. Certifications in equipment operation or safety standards can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in IL?

For Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,201 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Machine Operator & Mechanic

Cleveland Steel Container

Peotone, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Cleveland Steel Container, an Employee Owned and World Class Steel Pail Manufacturing company, is seeking an enthusiastic, responsible and customer oriented individual that has a positive attitude and shares the values of our company culture which is built around teamwork, family, honest communication and producing desirable results for our Peotone, IL manufacturing facility.
STARTING WAGE BASED ON EXPERIENCE WITH POTENTIAL INCREASES EVERY 6 MONTHS FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR. IN ADDITION TO COMPETITIVE WAGES, ALL EMPLOYEES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR AN ANNUAL COMPANY BONUS.
$1,000 REFERRAL BONUS FOR ANYONE THAT IS REFERRED THAT GETS HIRED BY THE COMPANY
INDUSTRY LEADING BENEFIT PROGRAM THAT INCLUDES LOW EMPLOYEE PREMIUMS FOR MEDICAL INSURANCE, UNMATCHED RETIREMENT PROGRAMS AS AN EMPLOYEE OWNER. DENTAL, VISION, LIFE AND DISABILITY INSURANCES. NEW EMPLOYEES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR 15 DAYS OF PAID VACATION PER CALENDAR YEAR AND 11 PAID COMPANY HOLIDAYS.
Work Hours:
M-F 5:30am-4:00pm (depending on production) (with Saturday availability)
Pay Range: $20-25/hr.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Understand and complete the various quality verification procedures
  • Complete all preventative maintenance requirements daily, weekly and monthly, ensure all proper housekeeping is completed
  • Ensure all safety requirements are maintained while setting up, running and maintaining equipment
  • Maintain all required tools for successful set-up, operation and maintenance for all equipment of the pail line.
  • Work with all other plant personnel to ensure efficient operation of pail line and assists plant General Manager and Pail Line Manager with any other duties or responsibilities as required.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED is required
  • 2+ years mechanical experience
  • Must be physically able to bend, crawl over, under and around the machinery as needed and be able to lift 40 pounds
  • Customer focused mindset
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills and ability to work in teams
  • Experience in a high volume fast paced environment and excellent work record

Cleveland Steel Container was founded in 1963 to provide customers with a dependable steel pail. Currently, we have four pail plants located strategically throughout the United States to support our customers. At our Streetsboro facility, we have a metal stamping plant to provide component parts for our pails. Our goal is to continuously provide our customers with quality pails through excellent service at an outstanding value. Finally, we make good pails and deliver them on time!
Cleveland Steel Container offers a competitive salary based on commensurate experience and a comprehensive benefits program that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, 401k with company contribution, profit sharing, paid holidays and vacations, life insurance and short & long-term disability coverages along with an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
#INDKPQN
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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