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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Entry Level Machine Operator

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $20.45/hr

Entry Level Machine Operator- NO EXPERINCE REQUIRED Pay & Shift: 3rd shift: 6pm-6am rotating $19.50/hr Responsibilities * Operate molding, assembly, or packaging equipment according to product ...

Aerotek

Entry Level Machine Operator Trainee

Peru, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Entry Level Machine Operator Trainee The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, setting up, and monitoring cold forming equipment used to manufacture precision metal fasteners and components.

Just In Time Staffing LLC

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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... You'll spend the majority of your time on the production floor working directly with operators ...

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Entry Level Operator information

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$20

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 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 operator?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

How to become an entry level operator with no experience?

To become an entry level operator with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training if applicable. Many employers also consider candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills.

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

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,201 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Entry Level Machine Operator

West Chicago, IL

Chips Manufacturing
Machinery Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Chips Manufacturingexternal

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

DESCRIPTION

Entry Level Machine Operators produce machined parts under close supervision by operating computer numerical control (CNC) machines. The position requires employees to maintain quality and safety standards, accurate time and record keeping, and demonstrate superior cleanliness and organization

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Practice safety standards as identified by the Company Handbook, orientation, and verbal instruction from supervisory staff. This includes safety glasses, proper shoes, lifting techniques, and safe chip handling.
  • Maintain clean and organized gage tables and work area. This includes wiping down machines following Chips’ guidelines and mopping floors at the end of each shift.
  • Proficient in completing production tags and production logs. Must be able to write in a clear and legible manner.
  • Accurately perform all functions required at clock emulator, which includes punching in and out at the beginning and end of each shift.
  • Use scales to weigh and count production pieces.
  • Pull chips when required or instructed and place in proper material location.
  • Check and record Material Heat Lot numbers.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities

COMPETENCIES

Technical Skills - Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills.
Oral Communication - Listens and gets clarification.
Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively, Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
Teamwork - Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.

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.

  • Possess the ability to read a limited number of two and three-syllable words, as well as recognizing similarities and differences between words and series of numbers. Must have the ability to print and speak simple sentences in English.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure. Ability to compute rate.
  • Must be able to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Employee must have the skills to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Employee is regularly required to stand, use hands to handle, or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (GED), one to three months related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

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