Entry Level Slitting Machine Operator Jobs in Gurnee, IL

MacLean-Fogg is hiring a Machine Operator at our Mundelein, IL manufacturing facility. This is an entry-level production job built for people with little or no manufacturing experience, and you will learn machine operation, safety procedures, and quality inspection through structured training and hands-on coaching from experienced operators. You will start with supervised production work, material handling, and basic quality checks, then move into more independent machine operation as your skills grow.

• Location: Mundelein, IL, on-site

• Schedule: Monday through Friday, 4:00 AM to 2:30 PM

• Pay: $20.09 per hour

• Employment type: Full-time, hourly, overtime eligible

• Experience required: None, training provided

• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match up to 3.5%, HSA with company contribution, paid time off, tuition reimbursement. Full list below.

• Complete structured training on machine operation, workplace safety, and quality standards.

• Load and unload raw materials and package finished goods.

• Monitor gauges and equipment during production runs and report readings outside of standard.

• Use basic measurement tools and inspection methods under supervision to check part quality.

• Follow standard work instructions exactly, with close guidance from your supervisor and trainer.

• Report safety hazards, unusual sounds, and equipment issues to your supervisor immediately.

• Clean and organize your work area, tools, and workstation using 5S practices.

• Follow all safety, environmental, and quality policies, and support other basic production tasks as you build technical skill.

• Willingness to learn new equipment, processes, and safety practices.

• Basic math skills for counting, measuring, and recording production data.

• Ability to read and follow written work instructions.

• Ability to follow verbal direction from supervisors and trainers.

• Attention to detail and a consistent commitment to quality.

• Safety awareness, including consistent use of required personal protective equipment.

• No prior manufacturing experience required. Training is provided.

• No minimum education requirement.

• Willing to learn and apply new skills on the job.

• Available to work Monday through Friday, 4:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

• Able to perform the physical requirements of the role, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Prior experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or production environment.

• Experience reading a tape measure, calipers, or micrometers.

• Forklift or pallet jack experience.

• Exposure to 5S or lean manufacturing practices.

The physical demands described here represent those that must be met to perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Stands, walks, bends, and reaches for the majority of the shift.

• Frequently lifts, carries, pushes, and pulls materials weighing 35 to 50 pounds.

• Uses manual dexterity frequently to handle tools, materials, and small parts.

• Distinguishes visual detail sufficient to monitor gauges and perform basic inspection tasks.

• Responds to audible alarms, signals, and verbal direction in a high-noise environment.

• Works in a manufacturing environment with noise, vibration, dust, oil, and temperature variation.

• Wears required personal protective equipment for the duration of the shift.

Employment is contingent on successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

MacLean-Fogg offers eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package that supports health, financial security, time away, and career development:

• Medical insurance with four Blue Cross Blue Shield plan options and 100% coverage for eligible preventive care

• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match of up to 3.5%, full vesting after two years, and discretionary profit sharing

• Paid time off and paid holidays to rest, recharge, and spend time with family

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions of up to $1,000 for individual coverage or $2,000 for family coverage

• Company-paid life insurance

• Short-term disability insurance

• Long-term disability insurance available through voluntary coverage

• Paid parental leave following an eligible birth, adoption, or placement

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with mental health, legal, and financial support through Spring Health

• Four free therapy sessions each year for employees and each eligible family member

• Free 24/7 virtual healthcare through Teladoc

• Tuition reimbursement for eligible degrees and continuing education

• Professional and leadership development through LinkedIn Learning and MacLean-Fogg development programs

• Health care and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

• Virtual physical therapy through Hinge Health

• On-demand access to earned wages through PayActiv

• Employee wellness and savings programs, including wellness incentives, equipment rebates, charitable donation matching, and a new-vehicle rebate program

• Holiday appreciation gifts for employees and their families

Benefits are subject to applicable plan terms and eligibility requirements. For full plan details, visit explore.benefits.macleanfogg.app.

MacLean-Fogg is a fourth-generation, family-owned American manufacturing company headquartered in Mundelein, Illinois. Founded in 1925, we design and manufacture engineered metal and plastic components and systems across diversified U.S. markets. With approximately 2,400 employees and U.S.-based manufacturing facilities, our portfolio includes MacLean-Fogg Component Solutions, OMCO, Mallard Manufacturing, and Threadstrong. We work side-by-side with customers to turn requirements into manufacturable solutions built for real-world performance.

MacLean-Fogg is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process may contact careers@macleanfogg.com.

At MacLean-Fogg, you’ll be part of a global manufacturing leader with a 100-year legacy of innovation and excellence. We partner with some of the world’s most iconic brands to create high-quality fasteners, components, and engineered solutions for industries that shape the future. With the recent addition of Mallard Manufacturing, we’ve expanded into industry-leading gravity flow solutions for material handling. Here, your ideas and skills will make an impact—driving cutting-edge solutions, advancing sustainability, and helping build a better tomorrow. Join a collaborative team where your contributions matter and your career can thrive.