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Machine Operate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Novolex

Machine Operator - Cartons

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.95 - $27.44/hr

Make appropriate adjustments or repairs to ensure that the quality of the cartons meets specifications and that the machines operate properly * Assist Operators in troubleshooting complex problems on ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Cartons

Saint Charles, IL

$21.95 - $27.44/hr

Make appropriate adjustments or repairs to ensure that the quality of the cartons meets specifications and that the machines operate properly * Assist Operators in troubleshooting complex problems on ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Cartons

Saint Charles, IL

$21.95 - $27.44/hr

Make appropriate adjustments or repairs to ensure that the quality of the cartons meets specifications and that the machines operate properly * Assist Operators in troubleshooting complex problems on ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Cartons

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.95 - $27.44/hr

Make appropriate adjustments or repairs to ensure that the quality of the cartons meets specifications and that the machines operate properly * Assist Operators in troubleshooting complex problems on ...

Sedona Staffing

Machinist - 1st Shift

Peoria, IL

$20/hr

Operate a variety of equipment, tools and machinery to cut, turn, bore and shape parts; using automatic and manual saws; a mill, radial arm drills, a variety of lathes and line boring machines.

DEO TEK, Inc

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$16/hr

In this role, you will operate and monitor various machinery to ensure efficient production and maintain quality standards. This position offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to ...

AllStaff

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$13/hr

Operate printing machines * Inspect quality of products produced * Read written instructions Machine Operator Requirements: * 1 year of Machine Operator or Printing Machine Operator experience in a ...

Westrock

Machine Operator

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Essential Functions: • Operate equipment in the most safe, efficient, and consistent manner • Maintain machine workflow to meet project deadlines • Read job tickets and initiate machine set-ups ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Operate beveler machinery within the Trim Department * Monitor machine performance and maintain production quality standards * Perform machine setup and adjustments as needed * Follow production ...

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Machine Operate information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operate in Illinois is $17.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as handling unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent quality during long shifts, and adapting to new machinery or updated processes. Proactively performing routine maintenance, participating in regular training sessions, and collaborating closely with maintenance teams can help minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations. Additionally, clear communication with supervisors and following established safety protocols are key to effectively addressing these challenges and maintaining a productive work environment.

What does a machine operator do?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery in a manufacturing or production environment. They monitor equipment to ensure it is running efficiently, make adjustments as needed, and perform routine inspections for safety and quality. Machine operators also troubleshoot issues, keep records of production, and may help with basic machine maintenance. Attention to detail and following safety protocols are crucial in this role.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with CNC machines, safety protocols, and quality control systems is typically required, sometimes supported by certifications like OSHA or specific machine operation credentials. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help ensure smooth production and quick response to issues. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring the quality of manufactured products.

What is the difference between Machine Operate vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperateEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certificationsSimilar credentials, often includes certifications for specific equipment
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesConstruction sites, industrial facilities, warehouses
Industry UsageManufacturing, construction, logisticsConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating machinery to produce goods or perform tasksDriving, maneuvering, and operating heavy equipment

Both Machine Operate and Equipment Operator roles involve operating machinery in industrial or construction settings. While they share similar credentials and work environments, Equipment Operator often emphasizes driving and maneuvering large equipment, whereas Machine Operate may focus more on operating specific machines for manufacturing or processing tasks.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Machine Operate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Machine Operate job openings:
Machine Operate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operate job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,655 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Machine Operator - Cartons

Machine Operator - Cartons

Novolex

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$21.95 - $27.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 23 days ago

Novolex rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 114 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Company Overview
Why Choose Us?
Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.
Our Sustainability Commitment
The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.
Job Description
Machine Operator - Cartons
St. Charles
Compensation Includes
  • Pay Range $21.95/hr - $27.44/hr + $1.50 shift differential for the 3rd shift

Available Shift
  • 3rd: 11:00pm - 7:00am, Mon-Fri

Overview
The Cartons Machine Operator position is responsible for consistently operates a zone of forming machines at or above standard levels of operation considering waste, efficiency and utilization. Trouble shoot, identify and correct machine related problems through proper adjustments to various parts of the machine. Provide innovative solutions for production problems.
Responsibilities
  • Performs minor repairs during production
  • Performs daily and weekly machine maintenance
  • Conducts quality checks at regular intervals. Takes corrective action to fix defects identified
  • Make appropriate adjustments or repairs to ensure that the quality of the cartons meets specifications and that the machines operate properly
  • Assist Operators in troubleshooting complex problems on their machines
  • Communicates with the operator from the previous and following shifts to review any problems experienced on the machines throughout the department
  • Communicates with supervisor to determine priorities for the day and identify any change overs or other special directions related to the department
  • Communicates production information to crew members
  • Performs purge procedures when changing to a new product and completes the required checklists
  • Covers breaks for feeders and packers in zone
  • Supplies the correct corrugate, bags and other supplies matching the job jacket, ensuring components are available for packers
  • Completes appropriate end of shift paperwork, accounting for crewing time, machine time, and production quantities
  • Reads and understands job jackets. Uses information to ensure machine is set up and production is running according to specification
  • Completes quality paperwork and hour by hour
  • Follows LOTO and alternative LOTO procedures
  • Maintains a clean and orderly work area
  • Properly adjusts machine settings to follow Standard Line Conditions
  • Perform other duties as assigned
  • Enters daily production data on PC and adjustments that were made to the machines

Qualifications
  • 2 years related experience
  • High School Diploma or General Education Degree
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills

Physical Requirements & Environmental Conditions
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk
  • Uses hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools and controls
  • The employee frequently is required to talk and hear to communicate with crew members
  • Required to climb, stoop, bend and reach with hands and arms
  • The employee is occasionally required to push or pull with hands or arms, kneel or crouch
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 20 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to distinguish shades and colors
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and effectively with little to no supervision
  • Positive work attitude and willingness to cooperate
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • The noise level in the work environment is consistently above 85 decibels
  • Able to work with dust from paper converting process
  • The employee constantly works near moving mechanical parts and lift trucks
  • Ambient temp and humidity may be elevated during the summer months

Company Benefits
What You'll Get From Us
Benefits
With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.
Community Engagement
At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.
Training and Development
We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through MyLearning. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union), and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.
Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact myHRservices@novolex.com.
Formerly Pactiv Evergreen

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