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Flex Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

LettrLabs

Production Operator - Chicago

Chicago, IL

$22 - $24/hr

Exposure to moving machinery and mechanical parts * Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm. Employees can expect 40 hours per week . * Ability to flex schedule as needed on weekends to work OT Why Join Us?

PPC Flex

Lean Process Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$74K - $92K/yr

Capture best practice machine setup parameters, database and deploy as Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for each item type + asset. * Improve manufacturing efficiency by analyzing and planning work ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsFlex Machine Operator JobsFlex Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Flex Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do flex machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for flex machine operator in Chicago, IL is $18.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Flex Machine Operator vs CNC Machine Operator?

AspectFlex Machine OperatorCNC Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, flexible machinery setupsManufacturing floors, computer-controlled machines
Industry UsageFlexible manufacturing, custom productionPrecision parts, automated production
Common Search/ComparisonFlex Machine Operator vs CNC Machine Operator

The Flex Machine Operator and CNC Machine Operator roles both work in manufacturing environments, often requiring similar certifications and working with machinery. The main difference lies in the type of equipment: Flex Machine Operators handle flexible, manual, or semi-automated machinery, while CNC Machine Operators work with computer-controlled machines for precision tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges flex machine operators face on the job, and how can they be overcome?

Flex Machine Operators often encounter challenges related to machine setup, troubleshooting technical issues, and maintaining consistent product quality. Operators must pay close attention to detail to quickly identify and correct errors, and may need to adapt to frequent production changes or tight deadlines. Building strong communication with maintenance teams and supervisors, as well as staying proactive with preventive maintenance and continuous training, can help address these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is a flex machine operator?

A flex machine operator is a worker responsible for operating flexible manufacturing equipment that can perform multiple functions, such as cutting, shaping, or assembling materials. They typically need to understand machine setup, safety procedures, and may require certifications or training in machinery operation. The role often involves working in manufacturing or production environments with a focus on efficiency and quality control.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flex machine operator?

To thrive as a Flex Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience in machine operation, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with flexographic printing presses, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and reliability help operators excel in this fast-paced environment. These skills are crucial for maintaining production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and minimizing downtime in manufacturing operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Flex Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Flex Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flex Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Flex Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Flex Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Flex Machine Operator job openings:
Flex Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flex Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,648 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Warehouse Equipment Operator-2nd Shift (Mon - Thur)

Harbor Freight Tools

Rockdale, IL • On-site

$24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description


The Warehouse Equipment Operator operates industrial lift trucks to collect and place specific materials into designated locations.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Certified to operate industrial lift trucks
  • Read itemized lists of materials and locate, collect, and place specific materials into a designated location
  • Able to use RF scanning devices for scanning of storage and retrieval transactions
  • Adherence to all company policies to include all safety rules
  • Additional duties as assigned by manager

Scope
  • Staff supervision and development: No
  • Decision making
  • Travel: Up to 5%
  • Flex Designation: DC Based

The anticipated rate for this position is $24.00 per hour depending on location, knowledge, skills, education and experience. In addition, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits to Associates (and their families) such as early access to pay, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability. Eligible Associates are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan. Associates will accrue paid time off up to 152 hours per year (inclusive of PTO, floating holidays, and paid holidays). Paid sick time up to 64 hours per year unless otherwise required by law.
#CA-Gre
Requirements
Education and Experience
Education Requirements
  • High School or GED equivalent

Years of Experience
  • Experience in warehouse environment preferred

Skills
  • Reading comprehension and ability to communicate in writing
  • Basic mathematic skills to include an understanding of geometry in order to build stable pallets
  • Additional Qualifications (behavioral traits, certifications, etc.)

Physical Requirements
  • Standing, walking, climbing, bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, and reaching heights on an intermittent basis for up to twelve hours per day.
  • Grasping, pushing, and pulling of materials on an intermittent basis for up to twelve hours per day. Reaching and working above and below the shoulder level on an intermittent basis for up to twelve hours per day.
  • Ability to safely team lift, lower, and move items up to 50lbs unassisted (maximum), 51+lbs assisted over the course of a work day.
  • Sit or stand continuously for up to twelve hours per day.
  • Must be comfortable working with and around forklifts, conveyer systems, scissor lifts, and hazardous machinery.
  • Must be comfortable with performing many of the tasks listed above from a ladder up to fifteen feet in elevation above the floor surface observing safety controls.
  • Must utilize proper safety controls at all times.
  • Must be able to drive automobiles, forklifts and scissor lifts.

Safety
  • Must be able to perform this job safely in accordance with standard operating procedures and good manufacturing practices, without endangering the health or safety of self or others.

The anticipated rate for this position is $24.00 per hour depending on location, knowledge, skills, education and experience. In addition, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits to Associates (and their families) such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability. Eligible Associates are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan. Associates will accrue paid time off up to 152 hours per year (inclusive of PTO, floating holidays, and paid holidays). Paid sick time up to 64 hours per year unless otherwise required by law.
About Harbor Freight Tools
We're a 45 year-old, $8 billion national tool retailer with the energy, enthusiasm, and growth potential of a start-up. We have over 1,500 stores in 48 states across the country and are opening several new locations every week. We offer our customers more than 7,000 tools and accessories, from hand tools and generators to air and power tools, from shop equipment to automotive tools. We provide our customers with the right tool for the right job at the right price, always delivering quality and value.

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