Helper Machine Operator Jobs in Union, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

This 1st shift Machine Operator role focuses on setting up and operating a press brake machine and saw in a custom job shop environment. You will work with precision sheet metal and large weldments, support other machine operators as needed, and contribute to a collaborative production team in a well-established, growing fabrication facility.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a press brake machine to produce high-quality parts according to specifications and blueprints.
• Set up and operate a saw to cut materials accurately using tape measures, micrometers, and calipers.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions to ensure correct dimensions and tolerances.
• Use micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring tools to verify part dimensions and maintain quality standards.
• Measure and mark materials using a tape measure to prepare for cutting, bending, or other machining operations.
• Assist with or learn laser machine operation, including loading sheets and monitoring the process as needed.
• Perform basic machine adjustments and setups to maintain efficient and safe operation of equipment.
• Monitor machines during operation, identify issues, and take appropriate action to prevent defects or downtime.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in a custom job shop welding and machining environment.
• Work closely with team members to meet production schedules and support custom work for various customers.
• Follow all shop procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards throughout daily operations.
• Carry out other miscellaneous duties assigned by leadership to support overall shop operations.

Essential Skills

• Experience machining parts in a production or job shop environment.
• Proficiency in press brake setup and operation.
• Experience as a saw operator or in saw machine operation.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints accurately.
• Skill in using micrometers and calipers for precise measurements.
• Ability to use a tape measure accurately for layout and verification.
• Mechanical aptitude with an understanding of basic mechanical and machining concepts.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure quality and accuracy of parts.
• Ability to work effectively as a team player and get along well with team members.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in machining or fabrication in a custom job shop environment.
• Comfort working around welding, machining, and precision sheet metal operations.
• Willingness to learn new equipment and processes, including laser operation and additional fabrication capabilities.

Why Work Here?

You will join a stable, family-run company with a long-standing reputation in the community and low employee turnover. The organization offers health, vision, and dental benefits, along with paid time off, supporting a healthy work-life balance. You will work in a respected, growing fabrication facility that values long-term relationships, craftsmanship, and a supportive team culture.

Work Environment

This is a 1st shift position, Monday through Friday, typically from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with flexibility to start as early as 6:00 a.m. and work as late as 4:30 p.m. The role is based in a custom job shop welding and machining environment within a 60,000 square-foot facility. The shop focuses on precision sheet metal and large weldments, supporting a wide range of custom work for area companies. You will work around welding, machining, press brakes, saws, and equipment in a production setting that emphasizes safety, quality, and teamwork.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/hr.

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rockford,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 1, 2026.

About Aerotek

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 meets 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 solving for 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.

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.