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Line Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Midway Staffing

Assistant Machine Operator

Carol Stream, IL

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Join our team as a Production Line Operator, where you'll work with corrugate materials and operate automated machinery to support production needs. * We're looking for reliable individuals with a ...

Gotion, Inc.

ESS Line Lead - 3rd Shift

Manteno, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Lead and coordinate the daily work of ESS line operators * Assign tasks based on production plans, skill levels, and priorities * Monitor workflow to ensure smooth operations and ontime production ...

The HR Office Inc

Warehouse Packer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

Constantly inspects finished product before it is packed into carton and notifies bag line operator of quality issues * Weighs and numbers cases, fills out proper documentation * Stacks finished ...

Midway Staffing

Machine Operators

Elgin, IL

$22 - $26/hr

Converting Line Operator Location: Elgin, IL Pay Range: $22.00-$26.00/hr Shifts: 1st, 2nd, or 3rd (Overtime as needed) Key Responsibilities * Operate all converting and finishing equipment * Read and ...

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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 20, 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.

3rd Shift Line Operator

P M Mold Company LLC

Schaumburg, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description

PM Mold is seeking Entry-Level Machine Operators for 3rd shift.

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for a full-time career in manufacturing.

We will train!

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:


PM Mold Company is a full-service mold manufacturer and plastic injection molder. We are ISO certified and supply state-of-the-art custom mold manufacturing and injection molding services for a wide variety of industries. For more than 50 years, PM Mold Company has been making a difference for our customers and in the communities where we work and live. Be a part of the team where our culture combines ingenuity with precision and advanced capabilities to deliver unmatched results, helping our customers get their products to market quickly and efficiently. Visit pmmold.com to learn more.

Duties & Responsibilities: 

  • Remove parts from machine
  • Package & count parts
  • Log counts & rejects
  • Label and package product
  • Keep work area clean
  • Other duties as assigned


Requirements

  •   Must have injection mold operator experience or similar/equivalent job experience 
  • Good communication skills -written & oral
  • Able to count parts
  • Able to follow procedures and work instructions
  • Good attendance
  • Able to work independently

Physical Requirements:

  • Good mobility, energy level & ability to stand all day, lift a maximum of 50 pounds
  • Must be able to hear machine alarms
  • Hand dexterity to handle & trim plastic parts
  • Must be able to visually check parts for changes in color, texture and conformity with part standards 


We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran stat or any other characteristic protected by law. 

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