1

Machine Maintenance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

This individual will be responsible for fully operating and maintaining the machines to meet production deadlines.The ideal candidate will possess experience with manufacturing equipment and machine ...

Machine Operator

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator fully operates and maintains the machine to meet production deadlines. Essential Functions: • Operate equipment in the most safe, efficient, and consistent manner • Maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Maintenance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$28

$64

How much do machine maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine maintenance in Chicago, IL is $28.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is Machine Maintenance?

Machine maintenance is an umbrella term that covers a diverse selection of subspecialties. Millwrights, for example, work primarily on the installation and assembly of industrial machinery. In any machinery mechanic career, you focus on repairs and maintenance. Other responsibilities may include diagnostics and adherence to both routine and long-term maintenance schedules. You typically specialize in a particular type of product, working under a title like medical equipment service rep or wind turbine technician. Your duties may center on operations or strictly repairs. A machine maintenance position requires high-intensity labor, so physical stamina is crucial.

What are machine maintenance technicians?

Machine maintenance technicians are skilled professionals responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining industrial machinery to ensure smooth operation and minimize downtime. Their duties include diagnosing mechanical issues, performing routine maintenance tasks, replacing parts, and keeping detailed service records. They work in various industries, such as manufacturing, automotive, and food processing, helping organizations keep their equipment running efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Machine Maintenance vs Equipment Technician?

AspectMachine MaintenanceEquipment Technician
CertificationsOften requires technical certifications or vocational trainingSimilar certifications, often with additional specialization
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsManufacturing facilities, industrial environments, repair shops
Job FocusMaintaining, repairing, and servicing machineryInstalling, troubleshooting, and repairing equipment
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, production, and industrial sectorsUsed in manufacturing, industrial, and maintenance sectors

While both roles involve working with industrial equipment, Machine Maintenance primarily focuses on routine upkeep and repairs of machinery, whereas Equipment Technicians often handle installation, troubleshooting, and more complex repairs. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, and they are essential in manufacturing and industrial environments to ensure operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Maintenance Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Maintenance Technician, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance practices, typically supported by a technical diploma or relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems), and diagnostic equipment is common in this role. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help technicians excel when responding to equipment issues and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure machinery runs efficiently, downtime is minimized, and safety standards are consistently met.

What are some common challenges faced in a Machine Maintenance role, and how can they be managed effectively?

One common challenge in Machine Maintenance is troubleshooting unexpected equipment breakdowns under time pressure, which can disrupt production schedules. Technicians often need to quickly diagnose the root cause of malfunctions and implement repairs efficiently to minimize downtime. Staying up to date with the latest maintenance technologies and maintaining thorough documentation can help manage these challenges. Effective communication with operators and other team members is also crucial for identifying recurring issues and planning preventative maintenance.
What job categories do people searching Machine Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Machine Maintenance Technician - 1st Shift

Machine Maintenance Technician - 1st Shift

Principal Manufacturing Corporation

Broadview, IL

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Principal Manufacturing is seeking a Machine Maintenance Technician to join our team in Broadview, IL. As a leader in fineblanking, conventional stamping and plastic injection molding, Principal Manufacturing sets itself above the competition.

The Machine Maintenance Technician ensures that the facility remains in operating form. Daily tasks will vary day-to-day based on what is in need of attention at the time, will include facility's repairs, aesthetic work and tending to the facility's machinery. Responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the electrical, mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic equipment and systems throughout the company, ensuring that machines are operational to maintain production schedule.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assemble, install or repair wiring, electrical and electronic components, mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic machinery and equipment.
  • Repair or replace defective equipment parts, using hand tools and power tools, and reassemble equipment.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance (PM) to ensure that machines continue to run smoothly, building systems operate efficiently, or the physical condition of buildings does not deteriorate. Working with departments to ensure maintenance activities are performed in alignment with production schedules.
  • Inspect, operate, and test machinery and equipment to diagnose machine malfunctions and communicate to management safety concerns.
  • Dismantle devices to access and remove defective parts, using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools.
  • Perform and or coordinate scheduled and unscheduled maintenance/repairs of production support and facilities equipment, i.e. air compressors, HVAC system and filtration systems.
  • Assist in the installation and commissioning of new equipment. Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain all new and existing production and production support equipment.
  • Initiate and maintain records within the maintenance electronic tracking system.
  • Ensure safety policies and procedures for performing maintenance activities are in place and comply with all State and Federal requirements.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and secure work area
  • Support 5S, lean and continuous improvement activities.
  • Additional duties include:
    • Monitor work performed by outside contractors
    • Finalize purchase orders for repair parts and maintain inventory of critical parts.
    • Clean and lubricate shafts, bearings, gears, and other parts of machinery.