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

WinCup is driven by our Vio biodegradable foam technology, Our Phade line of PHA based straws and ... Machine Operator (PEO) Job Location: West Chicago ,IL 1425 W Hawthorne Ln, West Chicago, IL 60185 ...

WinCup is driven by our Vio biodegradable foam technology, Our Phade line of PHA based straws and ... Machine Operator (PEO) Job Location: West Chicago ,IL 1425 W Hawthorne Ln, West Chicago, IL 60185 ...

Machine Operator I

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

FXI is a leading producer of foam innovation in the Bedding, Furniture, Industrial, Home & Office ... 2 - Performs machine operations to support the assembly floor - Verifies conformance to ...

You will gather necessary parts and label completed packages * operating the heat tunnel, strapping machine, foam machine, and bubble machine to ensure proper packaging To Land This Opportunity * You ...

Kitting Specialist

Addison, IL · On-site

$18.21 - $22.26/hr

You will gather necessary parts and label completed packages * operating the heat tunnel, strapping machine, foam machine, and bubble machine to ensure proper packaging To Land This Opportunity * You ...

Kitting Specialist

Addison, IL · On-site

$18.21 - $22.26/hr

You will gather necessary parts and label completed packages * operating the heat tunnel, strapping machine, foam machine, and bubble machine to ensure proper packaging To Land This Opportunity * You ...

You will gather necessary parts and label completed packages * operating the heat tunnel, strapping machine, foam machine, and bubble machine to ensure proper packaging To Land This Opportunity * You ...

Plant Controller

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

WinCup is driven by our Vio biodegradable foam technology, Our Phade line of PHA based straws and ... Operating Metrics - combination of financial and manufacturing metrics including, labor, machine ...

Plant Controller

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

WinCup is driven by our Vio biodegradable foam technology, Our Phade line of PHA based straws and ... Operating Metrics - combination of financial and manufacturing metrics including, labor, machine ...

Foam Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do foam machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for foam machine operator in Chicago, IL is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Foam Machine Operators face during daily operations?

Foam Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent foam quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing production deadlines. Ensuring proper calibration and cleanliness of the machinery is essential to avoid product defects and downtime. Operators also need to collaborate closely with maintenance teams and quality control to quickly resolve issues and keep production on schedule. Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills are key to success in this role.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The salary of a foam machine operator typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized training may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or event settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Foam Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foam Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial foam production machinery, safety protocols, and basic quality control systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart. These skills are essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring workplace safety, and minimizing downtime in manufacturing environments.

What is a foam operator?

A foam machine operator is a worker responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining foam machines used in entertainment, cleaning, or firefighting applications. They ensure the equipment functions correctly and follow safety protocols, often requiring knowledge of the machinery and safety certifications. The role may involve working in environments with water, chemicals, or high noise levels.

What does a Foam Machine Operator do?

A Foam Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that produce foam products, such as cushions, insulation, or packaging materials. They monitor the production process to ensure foam quality, adjust machine settings as needed, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. Operators also inspect finished products for defects and follow safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment. The role often requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work efficiently in a manufacturing setting.

Is being a packaging operator hard?

Foam machine operators typically work in manufacturing environments, operating and maintaining foam dispensing equipment. The job requires attention to safety protocols, basic mechanical skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced setting, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training. Physical stamina and adherence to safety standards are important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Foam Machine Operator vs Spray Foam Installer?

AspectFoam Machine OperatorSpray Foam Installer
CredentialsCertification in equipment operation, safety trainingCertification in spray foam application, safety training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, production linesConstruction sites, insulation projects
Industry UsageManufacturing, production of foam productsConstruction, home insulation
Job FocusOperating foam machinery, quality controlApplying spray foam insulation, surface prep

While both roles involve working with foam products, the Foam Machine Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining foam production equipment in manufacturing settings. In contrast, the Spray Foam Installer applies foam insulation directly on construction sites. Certification requirements overlap, but their work environments and job responsibilities differ significantly.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, with roles like CNC machine operators or industrial machine setters earning higher wages. Advanced skills, certifications, and experience in these fields typically lead to higher salaries compared to general machine operator positions.
What job categories do people searching Foam Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Foam Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Machine Operator - Production

WinCup

West Chicago, IL • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago


WinCup rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Machine Operator (PEO)
WinCup is a foodservice packaging company focused on providing our customers and consumers the highest quality products allowing them to enjoy the beverages and foods they love, whether at home, or on the go. WinCup was established in 1962 and is now a leading manufacturer passionately transitioning into an innovative, technology driven enterprise focused on creating superior products and brands directly addressing plastic pollution. WinCup is driven by our Vio biodegradable foam technology, Our Phade line of PHA based straws and stirrers is the only Marine Biodegradable, Home and Industrial Compostable straws and stirrers in the world.
We are a diverse team and bound together by our shared Values. We value:
  • One Team
  • Performance Based; Rewards & Recognition Driven
  • Excellence in All We Do
  • Respectful and Engaged Leadership
  • Always Do the Right Thing

So, if working on fantastic brands through innovation that leaves a positive legacy for our environment is what you are passionate about - read on to see if you might be a fit with our growing team!
Job Position: Machine Operator (PEO)
Job Location: West Chicago ,IL
1425 W Hawthorne Ln, West Chicago, IL 60185
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Salary Range: $19-$25
Job Summary:
The position is responsible for 4-6 lines maintaining machine operations for foam cups . Performs basic operator maintenance and equipment repair in a manufacturing environment.
Job Responsibilities:
  1. Record timely checks to ensure that only quality product is manufactured and enters the packing bins.
  2. Comply with all safety rules, polices, procedures and practices to include performing lock-out/tag-out of production equipment when required.
  3. Diagnose and determine cause for machine malfunctions along with making operator repairs to assigned machines.
  4. Perform "scrap bin checks", "line checks", and all assigned quality tests to measure the quality of the product being produced. This requires frequent inspection of the product, allowing defective finished goods to be identified by the operator.
  5. Maintains established cycle times on assigned machines to ensure production goals are met.
  6. Immediately respond to any defective cups or other finished goods that a Packer, Print Operator or Packing Tech identifies.
  7. Maintain a safe and clean work area at all times.
  8. Performs all required daily preventative maintenance to equipment including eliminating all air, steam, and water leaks.
  9. Provides timely communication to Production Lead or Supervisor when assistance is required to resolve raw material, machine, handling equipment, quality or other problems.
  10. Follows WinCup OPERA Values, safety initiatives, and other related plant standards.
  11. Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications & Experience:
Education - High School Diploma or GED
Experience - Two years in a manufacturing environment tending a production machine preferred
Skills - Mechanical aptitude
Read, write and speak English
Competencies:
  • Ability to follow directives with WCH leadership, managers, supervisors, in ensuring productivity and target levels are sustained.
  • Ensures all company policies and procedures including manufacturing and safety policies and procedures are followed at all times.
  • Collaboration with plant and safety leadership.
  • Ability to complete mandated new manufacturing training on equipment to maximize output efficiencies.
  • Supports all current and new product introductions.

Physical Demands:
  1. In-doors in a manufacturing environment that is not air-conditioned.
  2. Wear PPE while working which includes hairnet, hearing protection and safety glasses with side guards.
  3. Work a 12-hour shift that begins at 6:50 a.m. for dayshift or a nightshift that begins 6:50 p.m.
  4. Required to work weekdays, weekends and overtime as needed.

Working Conditions:
  1. Receive a "pass" on a pre-employment physical.
  2. Work a 12-hour shift while standing, walking, stooping, bending, reaching, grasping and lifting throughout the entire shift.
  3. Requires the manual movement of cases of finished goods and other objects such as bagger film that weight up to 40 pounds.

The list of job requirements above is not intended to be exhaustive or all-inclusive. The Company reserves the right to revise this job description as needed to comply with actual job requirements.
WinCup is an EEO/AA and E-Verify employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition, we complete background checks and drug tests to ensure the safety of our team-members in the workplace.
WinCup offers our full-time team members great benefit choices for you and your family with most benefit eligibility 31 days after hire, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid holidays, accruing paid time off, short and long-term disability, EAP, 401(k) with a company match available after 60 days.
Thank you for considering WinCup and making a difference!
Pay Range: $19 - $25 per hour

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