2

Entry Level Manufacturing Jobs in Freeport, IL (NOW HIRING)

Calibration Technician, First Shift

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$20.67 - $26.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level to mid-level position plays a key role in maintaining the precision and reliability of measurement equipment used in high-stakes aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and ...

Calibration Technician, First Shift

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level to mid-level position plays a key role in maintaining the precision and reliability of measurement equipment used in high-stakes aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and ...

Calibration Technician, First Shift

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level to mid-level position plays a key role in maintaining the precision and reliability of measurement equipment used in high-stakes aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and ...

Calibration Technician, First Shift

Loves Park, IL · On-site

$26.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level to mid-level position plays a key role in maintaining the precision and reliability of measurement equipment used in high-stakes aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and ...

Showing results 21-29

Entry Level Manufacturing information

See Freeport, IL salary details

$13

$29

$47

How much do entry level manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing in Freeport, IL is $29.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.77 and $32.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are there entry-level manufacturing jobs?

Yes, entry-level manufacturing jobs are widely available and often require minimal prior experience. These positions typically involve tasks such as assembly, operating machinery, or quality control, and may require basic skills, physical stamina, and safety training. Many companies offer on-the-job training for new workers.

What is an entry level manufacturing?

An Entry Level Manufacturing job involves performing basic tasks in a production or assembly environment, often under the guidance of experienced workers. Responsibilities may include operating machinery, assembling products, inspecting materials, and maintaining a clean work area. No prior experience is usually required, as on-the-job training is provided. These positions are ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in manufacturing and develop technical skills.

How to start a career in entry level manufacturing?

To start a career in entry level manufacturing, gain basic technical skills through high school education or vocational training, and consider obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training. Entry-level positions often require physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to operate machinery or tools, with on-the-job training provided by employers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in entry level manufacturing, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing worker, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to detail, and basic mechanical aptitude. Familiarity with operating machinery, using hand tools, and following safety protocols—sometimes demonstrated through OSHA certifications—is important. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help set candidates apart in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These abilities are crucial for maintaining production quality, efficiency, and safety on the job.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry level manufacturing position?

A typical day for an entry level manufacturing employee involves operating and monitoring machines, assembling products or components, conducting quality checks, and ensuring a clean and safe work area. You’ll often work as part of a team, communicating with supervisors and co-workers to maintain production goals. Depending on the facility, shifts may vary, and you may rotate between different tasks to keep up with workflow demands. This variety keeps the workday active and helps employees develop a broad set of skills relevant to advancing in the manufacturing industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing jobs in Freeport, IL?

The most popular types of Manufacturing jobs in Freeport, IL are:

What cities near Freeport, IL are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing jobs?

Cities near Freeport, IL with the most Entry Level Manufacturing job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing job openings in Freeport, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,225 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

FSQA Technician Level 1- 3rd Shift

TH Foods, Inc.

Loves Park, IL • On-site

$19.60 - $26.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:

This is an entry level Food Safety/Quality Assurance Technician position. Collect ingredient, product, and packaging technical information. Conduct analytical testing to support incoming materials, in-process product, and finished product meets food safety and quality standards. Communicate in a timely and effective manner to Production Team Members, Production Leadership and FSQA Leadership.

Note: While this Job Description outlines the responsibilities for Technician Level 1, candidates may also be considered for Tier 2 or Tier 3 roles based on organizational need, prior experience, and demonstrated proficiency in the duties of each level. Compensation details for all tiers are provided in the Benefits and Pay Rate Summary section below.

Essential Duties and Requirements include the following.

  • Adhere to personnel safety policies and procedures as well as promote personnel safety to peers.
  • Champion Food Safety and Quality Standards.
  • Promote Human Safety, Food Safety, and Superior Quality Standards throughout the organization.
  • Effectively document food safety and/or quality issues. Communicate expediently to FSQA Supervisor, Production Supervisor, and/or FSQA Manager.
  • Conduct inspection activities both during production and post sanitation. Ensure full compliance to established standards. This includes but is not limited to all Identity Preserved product: Kosher, Organic, Gluten Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Halal.
  • Audit production and packaging lines and document information for compliance purposes.
  • Collect and analyze ingredient and product samples for compliance to analytical, physical, chemical, and organoleptic specifications.
  • Audit metal detection and weight control equipment.
  • Record production finished goods and WIP data.
  • Recognize out of specification results and communicate to production in a timely manner.
  • Place non-conforming product on Hold and complete all required documentation.
    • Recognize out of specification results and communicate to appropriate personnel in a timely manner.
    • Responsible for reporting food safety, employee safety and quality issues
    • Performs other duties as assigned.
    • Should an external or internal hire be hired directly into Level I Technician, the expectation is that they complete the Food Safety Professional Certification, Track 1 training within six months of starting the position.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent are required. Ability to read, write and communicate in English required. Vocation training in Quality Systems is preferred. Work experience in Food Manufacturing or Quality Assurance is preferred.

Physical Ability

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and listen or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.


The expected base pay rate for this position can be seen below. +$2/HR shift differential for 2nd and 3rd Shift

FSQA Technician, level 1: $19.60/hour

FSQA Technician, level 2: $22.60/hour

FSQA Technician, level 3: $26.60/hour