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First Job Jobs in Kankakee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ryder

Forklift Operator 1st Shift

Bourbonnais, IL

$21/hr

Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year * 401 K offers a company match * HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ...

New

Ryder

Forklift Operator 1st Shift

Wilmington, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year * 401 K offers a company match * HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ...

Ryder

Forklift Operator 1st Shift

Wilmington, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year * 401 K offers a company match * HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ...

Ryder

Forklift Warehouse 1st Shift

Wilmington, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year * 401 K offers a company match * HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ...

Ryder

Forklift Operator 1st Shift

Wilmington, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year * 401 K offers a company match * HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ...

Ryder

Forklift Warehouse 1st Shift

Wilmington, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year * 401 K offers a company match * HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount * Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars ...

Caterpillar

Machinist Technician - 1st Shift

Dyer, IN · On-site

$20.10 - $26.10/hr

All training will be on 1st shift for up to 2 months before moving to hired shift. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst Job JobsFirst Job Jobs in Kankakee, IL

First Job information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

$29.3K

$42.5K

$51K

How much do first job jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for first job in Kankakee, IL is $42,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,900.00 and $46,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first job?

First jobs are typically entry-level positions that individuals take early in their careers, often as their initial work experience. These roles can range from part-time or temporary jobs to internships and apprenticeships in various industries. First jobs help people develop basic workplace skills, build their resumes, and gain valuable insights into their career interests. They can also provide a stepping stone to more advanced positions as individuals gain confidence and experience. Many people use their first job as an opportunity to learn about professional expectations, teamwork, and time management.

What are some common challenges people face in their first job and how can they overcome them?

Starting your first job can come with challenges such as adapting to a professional environment, managing time effectively, and learning workplace expectations. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking feedback, asking questions, and observing experienced colleagues can help you adjust more smoothly. Building strong communication skills and being proactive in your responsibilities will also support your growth. Remember, most employers appreciate a willingness to learn and a positive attitude as you develop your skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in your first job, and why are they important?

To thrive in your first job, you generally need basic organizational skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn, along with any specific educational or training requirements for the position. Familiarity with common office software, point-of-sale systems, or role-specific tools may also be necessary. Strong communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude help new employees stand out and adapt quickly. These qualities are crucial for building a solid professional reputation, meeting expectations, and setting the foundation for future career growth.

What is the best job to get as a first job?

The best first job often depends on individual interests and goals, but entry-level positions such as retail associate, food service worker, or administrative assistant are common starting points. These roles typically require minimal experience, help develop basic skills like communication and time management, and may offer flexible schedules. Gaining experience in these roles can also provide a foundation for future career advancement.

What cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for First Job jobs?

Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most First Job job openings:

First Job jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Job job openings in Kankakee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,456 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Forklift Operator 1st Shift

Ryder

Bourbonnais, IL

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Ryder rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 513 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

205th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

Ryder is hiring a Material Handler in Wilmington, Illinois — offering weekly pay, excellent benefits, and a career you can feel good about. 

Warehouse Forklift Operator / Driver Positions Pay Weekly

  • Base pay: $21.00 per hour 
  • 3% increase after 1 year
  • Schedule: A Shift Sunday - Tuesday 5:00am-4:30pm, Wednesday 5:00am-10:45am

Apply Here with Ryder Today

Click here to see and hear it from a Ryder Supply Chain Employee:

https://RyderCareers.Video/MaterialHandlers

Ryder Warehouse Associates work in clean, organized, and well-run facilities to provide the safest supply chain environment

  • Products Being Handled: Food products
  • Equipment: Electric Sit Down Forklifts, Reach Truck, and RF scanners

Various warehouse fulfillment specialist roles at Ryder support distribution across the US. 

Apply Here with Ryder Today

We have all the benefits other Warehouse Distribution Facilities offer WITHOUT the WAIT!

  • Warehouse Positions Pay Each Week
  • Paid Training and support to take your next step
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 K etc. Start at 30 Days
  • Earn PTO starting Month 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year
  • 401 K offers a company match
  • HIGH VALUED Stock at 15 % Employee Discount
  • Employee Discounts that save you money on Tools, Cars, Hotels, Electronics/Appliances, Cell Phones, Travel, and muchmore
  • Safety Gear PROVIDED
  • Caring Leadership prioritizing safety – every shift, every role.

  • Focus on continuous improvement designed for success

Your drive. Your career. Start driving your future with Ryder today. Click Here to See All Ryder Careers: https://jobs.ryder.com/jobs/

At Ryder, you will be part of a team-first culture built on respect when joining a community of proud women and men in Supply Chain, including many Military Reservists and Veterans.

EEO/AA/Female/Minority/Disabled/Veteran


  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • One (1) year or more related warehouse and/or powered industrial truck experience preferred
  • Valid Forklift Operator's License certified
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
  • Ability to be a team player and able to work within a diverse work environment
  • Ability to create and maintain professional relationships within all levels of the organization (peers, work groups, customers, supervisors)Able to work within a diverse work environment
  • Highly thorough and dependable
  • Must be punctual and have a good attendance record
  • Performs work independently with minimal supervision
  • Possesses a high degree of initiative
  • Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure
  • Ability to lift and/or push/pull up to 35 lbs
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time
  • Ability to work using health and safety methods
  • Must be available to work on a flexible schedule on the various work shifts
  • Detail oriented with excellent follow-up practices

Important Note: Some positions require additional screening that may include employment and education verification; motor vehicle records check and a road test; and/or badging or background requirements of the customer to which you are assigned.


  • Perform warehouse function, which may include loading, picking, packing, shipping, receiving, forklift operation, and, cycle counting
  • Performing duties within performance measurement guidelines of the contract
  • Responsible for the accurate picking and packing, auditing, tote induction, staging of products and loading and unloading of trucks
  • Responsible of dealing with day to day paperwork in a warehouse environment (i.e. picking sheets, returns, bills of lading, etc.)
  • Provide technical and maintenance support for different aspects related to the automated packing system during the core shift hour of production
  • Performing duties within performance measurement guidelines of the contract
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Ryder is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.

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