Furnace Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

This 3rd shift Furnace Operator role supports a variety of heat-treat operations, including carburizing, thru hardening, normalizing, die quench, deep freeze, and temper processes in a high-volume manufacturing environment. You will operate and program furnaces, monitor process conditions, and ensure that all products meet strict quality and safety standards while working in a hands-on, industrial setting.

• Operate integral quench furnaces and high temperature box furnaces in accordance with production schedules and process requirements.
• Program furnace cycles and verify that all settings are correct for each load and process prior to operation.
• Troubleshoot furnace equipment and heat-treat process issues to minimize downtime and maintain consistent product quality.
• Load and unload parts safely and efficiently while following all handling requirements and work instructions.
• Complete all required production and process documentation accurately and on time, including logs and reports.
• Monitor cycle performance, temperatures, and process conditions throughout each run to ensure compliance with specifications and quality standards.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area, including routine cleaning and basic equipment care.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, maintenance personnel, and team members regarding priorities, issues, and process changes.
• Follow all safety procedures, work instructions, and quality requirements while demonstrating dependable attendance and reliability on 3rd shift.

• Experience operating heat-treat equipment in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Working knowledge of carburizing, thru hardening, normalizing, die quench, deep freeze, and temper processes preferred.
• Ability to program, troubleshoot, and operate furnaces with limited supervision.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial machinery.
• Ability to safely load and unload parts and operate related material handling equipment as required.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accurate and complete documentation.
• Good time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple loads or processes.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow work instructions, safety procedures, and quality requirements.
• Dependable attendance and willingness to work 3rd shift.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Prior experience in heat treat, furnace operation, or similar machine operation in a manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot equipment and production issues to support continuous operation.
• Mechanically inclined with experience performing basic tasks such as oil changes and routine equipment checks.
• Experience with inspection practices to verify product quality after heat-treat processes.
• Comfort working in a non-climate-controlled industrial environment with exposure to heat and seasonal temperature changes when required.
• High school graduate or trade school education is preferred.

Employees benefit from a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability coverage after 60 days in accordance with the union contract. A 401(k) plan offers a matching contribution of 25% of the first portion of employee contributions, along with an additional annual discretionary match of 1.75% of base pay deposited within the first 60 days of each calendar year. The organization demonstrates long-term stability, with an average employee tenure of 14 to 16 years, reflecting a supportive environment where people choose to build their careers.

The role is based in a large metal and CNC manufacturing facility spread across two buildings, with approximately 160 employees working across three shifts. The shop is fully air conditioned in key areas, though certain heat-treat operations may involve exposure to elevated temperatures and typical industrial conditions. The environment is hands-on and production-focused, with integral quench furnaces, high temperature box furnaces, and other industrial equipment in regular use. Team members work on 3rd shift and are expected to follow all safety protocols while maintaining a clean, organized work area in a busy, collaborative manufacturing setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Downers Grove, IL.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Downers Grove,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.