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Lead Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Lead Machine Press Operator

Godfrey, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Company Description If you consider yourself a machine whisperer and enjoy a well-organized yet noisy or dirty work environment, we'd love to have you join our team as a lead machine press operator.

Lead Machine Press Operator

Godfrey, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Company Description If you consider yourself a machine whisperer and enjoy a well-organized yet noisy or dirty work environment, we'd love to have you join our team as a lead machine press operator.

Machine Operator

Bloomingdale, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Machine Operator - 290 Madsen Drive, Bloomingdale, IL 60108 Reports to Production Supervisor ABOUT ... Report jams, defects, or unsafe conditions to your Line Lead immediately * Support teammates and ...

Machine Operator

Bloomingdale, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Machine Operator - 290 Madsen Drive, Bloomingdale, IL 60108 Reports to Production Supervisor ABOUT ... Report jams, defects, or unsafe conditions to your Line Lead immediately * Support teammates and ...

Machine Operator

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$24.30/hr

Reporting to the shift supervisor or production lead This job might be an outstanding fit if you ... Apply to be a Machine Operator today! As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who ...

Weekend Machine Operator

Broadview, IL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $29.51/hr

Maternity/Paternity Leave Machine Operator is supported and backed up by other machine operators or the Lead. Suitable training is required of this individual. Machine Operator reports to the ...

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Operate automated Flexo, Folder, and Gluer production lines to produce corrugated and packaging materials according to work orders and customer specifications. * Assist lead operators with machine ...

Machine Operator

Gurnee, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Machine Operator - 1st, 2nd & 3rd Shift Opportunities Onsite - Gurnee, IL Who We Are: PurposeBuilt ... Lead the process for setting up the production filling lines and operating in accordance with ...

Weekend Machine Operator

Broadview, IL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $29.51/hr

Maternity/Paternity Leave Machine Operator is supported and backed up by other machine operators or the Lead. Suitable training is required of this individual. Machine Operator reports to the ...

Weekend Machine Operator

Broadview, IL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $29.51/hr

Maternity/Paternity Leave Machine Operator is supported and backed up by other machine operators or the Lead. Suitable training is required of this individual. Machine Operator reports to the ...

Machine Operator - All Shifts

Mchenry, IL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... Machine Operator at Novation Industries. Ultimately to comply with directives of the reporting ... assigned by the Lead Operator 1.2. All tasks meet the designated quality and throughput ...

Machine Operator - All Shifts

Mchenry, IL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... Machine Operator at Novation Industries. Ultimately to comply with directives of the reporting ... assigned by the Lead Operator 1.2. All tasks meet the designated quality and throughput ...

Machine Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$25.75/hr

Development in this role will lead to ownership of machine operation (Operator II) to further career advancement and productivity. The essential function of the Operator I will be to maintain the bag ...

Machine Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$25.75/hr

Development in this role will lead to ownership of machine operation (Operator II) to further career advancement and productivity. The essential function of the Operator I will be to maintain the bag ...

Machine Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$25.75/hr

Development in this role will lead to ownership of machine operation (Operator II) to further career advancement and productivity. The essential function of the Operator I will be to maintain the bag ...

Machine Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$25.75/hr

Development in this role will lead to ownership of machine operation (Operator II) to further career advancement and productivity. The essential function of the Operator I will be to maintain the bag ...

Development in this role will lead to ownership of machine operation (Operator II) to further career advancement and productivity. The essential function of the Operator I will be to maintain the bag ...

Machine Operator

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

We are seeking Machine Operators for Engine Lathe Operations and at our Batavia location, with ... as directed by the lead or supervisor. Required Skills and Attributes: * Strong mechanical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Machine Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$23

$34

How much do lead machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead machine operator in Illinois is $23.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead machine operator do?

A Lead Machine Operator oversees the operation of machinery in a manufacturing or production environment. They are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting machines, as well as ensuring production targets and quality standards are met. In addition, they often supervise and train junior operators, coordinate workflow, and enforce safety protocols. Their role is crucial in maintaining efficient and safe production processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Machine Operator, you need strong technical knowledge of manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and experience in machine operation, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with computerized control systems, maintenance tools, and quality management software is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient production, equipment reliability, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by lead machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Lead Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating a team with varying skill levels, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. To address these issues, effective communication and regular training are key, as well as staying up-to-date with machine maintenance schedules. Cultivating strong problem-solving skills and encouraging a collaborative environment can help the team quickly adapt to production changes and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Lead Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectLead Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, machinery operation certificationsRequires similar certifications, often OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentSupervises team, oversees machinery, ensures safetyOperates machinery, follows standard procedures
ResponsibilitiesLeads operations, trains staff, maintains equipmentOperates and monitors machines, performs routine maintenance

The main difference is that the Lead Machine Operator supervises and coordinates machine operation, while the Machine Operator focuses on operating machinery. The lead role involves additional responsibilities like team oversight and training, but both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable industrial environments.

Infographic showing various Lead Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,466 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Line Lead (Machine Operator Experience)

Labor Solutions, LLC

Plainfield, IL โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Labor Solutions is seeking a Line Lead. Do not miss this Great Opportunity!


Hours: 2nd shift (flexible start time, 10-hour shift)

Pay: $20 and up - DOE


Requirements:

  • Machine Operator Experience

Company Description

Labor Solutions, LLC is a leader in the professional, temporary, and direct hire industry throughout the Midwest area. Our clients range from individual entrepreneurs to large corporations, and while we are big enough to serve Fortune 100 companies, we are small enough to stay nimble in an always-changing market.

Thank you!