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Line Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Line Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

Line Operator Req Id: 2674 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 2nd Brand: Central Steel & Wire Job Location: CSW - Portage Laser Center Posting Start Date: 6/3/26 Summary Welcome to Ryerson, where ...

Old World Industries, LLC.

Line Operator

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

The line operator is responsible for working on production of goods and providing manufacturing support for finished goods. This is a production-oriented position and requires physical labor ...

Unilever

Line Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Line Operator Location of the job: Hammond IN (Union) Rotating Shift: 1st week - 7:00 am - 3:00 pm 2nd week - 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm 3rd week - 11:00 pm - 7:00 am Hourly Pay Rate - $20.00 (with ...

Old World Industries

Line Operator

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$18/hr

The line operator is responsible for working on production of goods and providing manufacturing support for finished goods. This is a production-oriented position and requires physical labor ...

Allmetal, Inc

Paint Line Operator

Bensenville, IL · On-site

$19 - $21.55/hr

Job Details Our paint line operators are responsible for feeding, cutting, and inspecting all parts as they move through the painting booth. 3rd Shift: 11pm-7am $19.00 per hour; Increase to $19.80 ...

Nestle

Line Operator 1

Schaumburg, IL

$22.40/hr

The Line Operator 1 is responsible for tending to individual machinery that is associated with the proofing, pressing, docking, baking, de-panning and pan loading of the Bakery processing areas. This ...

Nestle

Line Operator 2

Schaumburg, IL

$23.18/hr

The Line Operator 2 is responsible for sheeting, scaling and mixing all ingredients as prescribed by the Bill of Materials (BOM) in a fast-paced work environment. This position works collaboratively ...

Combined Metals Company

Be Seen First

Pack Line Operator

Bellwood, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Train new operators, as required. * Assist supervisor/manager and other operators as needed. * Other duties as assigned. Requirements: * High school diploma or equivalent. * Manufacturing experience ...

Yankee Line

OTR Bus Driver/Motorcoach Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Yankee Line is hiring Bus and Motorcoach Operators to join our dedicated team in the charter and transit transportation business. As a Yankee Line Operator, you are a primary link to the continuing ...

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All JobsLine Operator JobsLine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Line Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do line operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for line operator in Chicago, IL is $18.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of line operator?

A line operator is responsible for operating and monitoring machinery on a production line to ensure efficient manufacturing of products. They perform tasks such as setting up equipment, inspecting products for quality, and maintaining safety standards, often working in manufacturing or industrial environments. Basic technical skills and adherence to safety protocols are essential for this role.

What is a line operator job?

A line operator is responsible for operating and monitoring machinery on a production line to ensure efficient manufacturing of products. They perform tasks such as setting up equipment, inspecting products for quality, and following safety protocols, often working in manufacturing or industrial environments. Basic technical skills and adherence to safety standards are essential for this role.

What are line operators?

Line operators are workers responsible for operating and monitoring machinery on production or assembly lines in manufacturing facilities. Their duties often include starting and stopping machines, inspecting products for quality, troubleshooting minor issues, and ensuring the production process runs smoothly and efficiently. Line operators may also be required to maintain records of production output and follow strict safety and cleanliness standards. This role is essential for maintaining consistent product quality and meeting production targets.

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

To thrive as a Line Operator, you typically need a high school diploma, mechanical aptitude, and a keen attention to detail for monitoring production lines. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and often basic computer systems or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is important. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help set top performers apart. These skills ensure smooth production flow, minimize downtime, and uphold quality and safety standards.

What is the difference between Line Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectLine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in manufacturingHigh school diploma; certifications in machinery or safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, assembly areasFactories, machine rooms, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageManufacturing, food processing, automotiveManufacturing, industrial production, packaging
Job FocusOverseeing production line operations, quality checksOperating specific machinery, maintenance, troubleshooting

While both roles work in manufacturing environments, a Line Operator manages entire production lines, ensuring smooth operation and quality, whereas a Machine Operator focuses on operating and maintaining specific machinery within the production process.

What Is a Line Operator?

A line operator works on a production line, ensuring product standards are met and filling packages or containers before shipping them out of the facility. As a line operator, the job duties you perform include conducting routine maintenance and calibration of all production line equipment and ensuring the quality of labeling and packaging. The qualifications needed for this career include job experience at a production facility or factory, strong physical endurance and skills, and a keen eye for detail.

What are some common challenges faced by Line Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Line Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent production quality, meeting tight deadlines, and quickly resolving equipment malfunctions. Managing these effectively involves staying attentive to detail, following standard operating procedures, and communicating promptly with supervisors and maintenance teams when issues arise. Continuous training and teamwork are essential, as many production lines require coordination with colleagues to ensure smooth workflow and minimal downtime.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

While most line operator roles do not pay $500,000 annually, high-level executive positions in manufacturing or industrial companies, such as plant managers or operations directors, can reach or exceed this income level with experience and bonuses. These roles typically require extensive industry knowledge, leadership skills, and often advanced certifications or degrees.

How much do line operators make in the US?

In the US, line operators typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, which translates to approximately $31,000 to $41,600 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on industry, experience, location, and whether the role requires certifications or operating specific machinery.
More about Line Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Line Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Line Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Line Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Line Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Line Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Line Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Line Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Line Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,833 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Line Operator

Line Operator

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Portage, IN • On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Ryerson rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 368 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Line Operator
Req Id: 2674
Workplace Type: On-Site
Job Shift: 2nd
Brand: Central Steel & Wire
Job Location: CSW - Portage Laser Center
Posting Start Date: 6/3/26
Summary
Welcome to Ryerson, where exceptional career opportunities await. As a leading provider of industrial metal products and services since 1842, we are committed to excellence and best-in-class customer service. Join our team and be a part of a legacy of excellence, where your contributions will be valued, and your development supported. Ryerson offers a dynamic, quality-focused, environment, ideal for advancing your career and making your mark in the metals industry.
As a Line Operator, you will play a key role in the organization's efficient operation ensuring that goals are met surrounding safety, productivity, quality, and on-time delivery providing a great customer experience.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • Sets up and operates various production processing lines, including Temper Mill/Cut to Length Line, Automatic Packaging Line, Plasma Cutter, Laser Cutting Line, and Press Brake Forming Line in a team environment setting
  • Operates manual shear for sample testing
  • Identifies non-conforming materials
  • Performs data entry for processed fulfilled orders
  • Operates Forklifts, Electric Overhead Cranes, and Warehouse Tractor
  • All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Requirements
  • Successfully pass a skills-based assessment - evaluates your reading, math, inspections & measurement, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills
  • 3-5 years or more experience in cut-to-length line setting preferred
  • Steel industry background preferred
  • Able to read a tape measure, micrometers, and calipers
  • Overhead crane experience preferred
  • Experience with mobile equipment preferred
  • Physical ability to pass physical requirements exam for vision, hearing, and mobility

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, and pregnancy), age, national origin, religion, disability or genetic information, marital status, status as a veteran, or any other federal, state or local protected class or artificial barrier.

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