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Line Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ESS Line Lead - 3rd Shift

Manteno, IL ยท On-site

$27.50/hr

Support operators in understanding work instructions and technical requirements Cross - Department Communication * Communicate clearly and effectively with Engineering, Quality, Warehouse, and ...

Utility

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... line remains clean. The role requires adherence to safety guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures, along with active participation in the Pregis apprenticeship program to foster continuous ...

Grind Line Catcher

Geneva, IL

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Grind Line Catcher

Geneva, IL

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Grind Line Catcher

Geneva, IL

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Grind Line Catcher

Geneva, IL

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

... line Operating scanner to input production including correct number of cases Cleaning work area and all equipment at the end of shift and/or during work hours, as necessary Cross training on various ...

Grind Line Catcher

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Grind Line Catcher

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Assemble packaging for finished goods including cardboard boxes and Styrofoam inserts. * Assist grind line operators as needed to ensure a high quality final product. * Train temporary Grind Catchers ...

Paint Sprayer

Elk Grove Village, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Position Description A Line Liquid Sprayer determines the acceptable condition of parts and quality level required under the direction of the Production Line Supervisor and/or Quality Assurance ...

Utility Days

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... line remains clean. The role requires adherence to safety guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures, along with active participation in the Pregis apprenticeship program to foster continuous ...

Utility

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... line remains clean. The role requires adherence to safety guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures, along with active participation in the Pregis apprenticeship program to foster continuous ...

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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.
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:
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.
ESS Line Lead - 3rd Shift

ESS Line Lead - 3rd Shift

Gotion, Inc.

Manteno, IL โ€ข On-site

$27.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA, currently building a Manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL and has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route.
Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to pursue a dream of global green energy together! We offer outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting and challenging working environment. Everyone is highly valued and plays a vital role in the growth of our organization.
Position Summary
The ESS Line Lead is responsible for overseeing daily production activities on the energy storage system assembly line. This role serves as the first level of leadership on the floor, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production through effective team coordination, technical guidance, and cross-functional communication.
Key Responsibilities
Line Leadership & Team Coordination
  • 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 on-time production output
  • Provide on-the-job guidance, coaching, and support to operators

Electrical & Drawing Basics
  • Apply basic knowledge of electrical components and simple wiring during assembly
  • Read and interpret basic mechanical and electrical drawings to guide assembly work
  • Support operators in understanding work instructions and technical requirements

Cross-Department Communication
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with Engineering, Quality, Warehouse, and Production Planning teams
  • Escalate issues related to materials, quality, tooling, or processes in a timely manner
  • Support engineering changes, quality actions, and production adjustments as needed

Problem-Solving & Reporting
  • Identify production, quality, or safety issues on the line
  • Take immediate corrective actions within scope and escalate when required
  • Track issues, downtime, and output, and provide clear daily and weekly reports to supervisors
  • Support root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives

Quality & 5S Awareness
  • Maintain strong quality awareness and ensure operators follow standard work and quality procedures
  • Perform line checks and verify compliance with quality standards
  • Uphold 5S discipline to maintain a clean, organized, and safe production area

Required Qualifications
  • Basic understanding of electrical components, wiring, and assembly processes
  • Ability to read simple mechanical and electrical drawings
  • Prior experience leading or coordinating a production or assembly line
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Working knowledge of quality standards and 5S principles

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in energy storage systems, battery manufacturing, or electrical assembly
  • Previous experience as a Line Lead, Team Lead, or Senior Operator
  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices

Key Skills & Competencies
  • Hands-on leadership and team coordination
  • Problem-solving and decision-making under production deadlines
  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Attention to detail and quality-driven mindset
  • Safety-focused and process-oriented

Base pay is one part of our total compensation package at Gotion, and is determined within a range. This provides you with the opportunity to progress as you grow and advance your career at Gotion. The base pay range for this role is shown below, and will depend on your skills, qualifications, experiences, and location.
Expected Pay Range
$27.50-$27.50 USD
Gotion Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve, cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.
We provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), parental status, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other characteristic protected by law.
At Gotion Inc., we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.