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Machine Operate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Smiths Machine

CNC Swiss Machinist (3rd Shift)

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Operate cleaning equipment (vapor degreaser, etc.) * Operate multiple machines at one time ... Operate state-of-the-art inspection equipment. * Monitor product quality and adhere to dimensional ...

ARUNDEL MACHINE

CNC Swiss Machinist (3rd Shift)

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Operate cleaning equipment (vapor degreaser, etc.) * Operate multiple machines at one time ... Operate state-of-the-art inspection equipment. * Monitor product quality and adhere to dimensional ...

Swiss Automation Inc

Machine Operator

Barrington, IL · On-site

$39K - $60K/yr

Operate and load bar feeder and measure bar stock material. * Check material to ensure correct ... Verify machine cycle time, speak with set-up person if router cycle time cannot be met. * Document ...

Swiss Automation Inc

Machine Operator

Barrington, IL · On-site

$39K - $60K/yr

Operate and load bar feeder and measure bar stock material. * Check material to ensure correct ... Verify machine cycle time, speak with set-up person if router cycle time cannot be met. * Document ...

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

Operate and monitor machines that cut, measure, spool, or coil wire and cable to specification * Load raw material (wire/cable) onto machines and thread through rollers or guides * Read work orders ...

ARUNDEL MACHINE

CNC Swiss Machinist (3rd Shift)

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Operate cleaning equipment (vapor degreaser, etc.) * Operate multiple machines at one time ... Operate state-of-the-art inspection equipment. * Monitor product quality and adhere to dimensional ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL

$17.50 - $21/hr

Set up and operate fin tube machines to perform progressive milling operations while holding precise tolerances and meeting finishing requirements per customer drawings. * Understand tube types ...

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Nexus Employment

Machine Operator

Merrillville, IN

$18 - $19/hr

Operate and monitor production and packaging machines * Perform basic machine setup, changeovers, and troubleshooting * Complete daily paperwork and production documentation * Perform routine machine ...

Ursitti Enterprises LLC

Machine Operator

Chesterton, IN

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The ideal candidate will operate and maintain printing and cutting machines to ensure high-quality output. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and the ability to work in a fast ...

Integrity Trade Services

Machine Operator

Park Forest, IL

$16.75 - $20/hr

Will set-up, operate and run different printing machinery. * Ability to set up and operate different types of printing machinery * Install and adjust printing plates * Mixing inks * Maintain machines ...

Cenveo Worldwide Limited

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Ability to operate machinery in a standing position for an entire shift * Constant reaching, bending, turning. * Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds frequently. * Ability to push up to 100 lbs ...

Burgess Norton Mfg Co

Machine Operator

Geneva, IL

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform duties to operate, set-up and troubleshoot Sinico machinery. WHAT YOU'LL DO * Independently set up, operate, and troubleshoot Sinico machines. * Maintain inventory control for all tooling.

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Cenveo

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Ability to operate machinery in a standing position for an entire shift * Constant reaching, bending, turning. * Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds frequently. * Ability to push up to 100 lbs ...

Aerotek

CNC Machinist

Hillside, IL

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Set up, adjust, and operate basic machine tools and specialized or advanced variations to perform precision machining operations. * Machine parts to exact specifications using machine tools such as ...

Cenveo Worldwide Limited

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Ability to operate machinery in a standing position for an entire shift * Constant reaching, bending, turning. * Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds frequently. * Ability to push up to 100 lbs ...

Burgess Norton Mfg Co

Machine Operator

Geneva, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform duties to operate, set-up and troubleshoot Sinico machinery. WHAT YOU'LL DO * Independently set up, operate, and troubleshoot Sinico machines. * Maintain inventory control for all tooling.

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All JobsMachine Operate JobsMachine Operate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Machine Operate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$18

$24

How much do machine operate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operate in Chicago, IL is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $20.10 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 near Chicago, IL are hiring for Machine Operate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Machine Operate job openings:
Machine Operate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operate job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,998 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

CNC Swiss Machinist (3rd Shift)

Smiths Machine

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Summary: 

As a CNC Swiss Lathe Machinist you will produce industrial and medical parts by programming, setting up, and operating a CNC Swiss Lathe; maintains quality and safety standards; keeps records and maintains equipment supplies by performing the following duties. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Plans machining by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, orthographic drawings, reference planes, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters.
  • Interprets geometric dimensions and tolerances.
  • Programs CNC machines and lathes by entering instructions, including zeros and reference points.
  • Sets tool registers, offsets, compensations, and conditional switches
  • Calculates requirements including basic math and adjusting three and four-jaw chucks, tools, attachments, collets, bushings, cams, gears, stops, and stock pushers.
  • Loads machine by lifting stock into position.
  • Verifies setting by measuring positions, first-run part, and sample workpieces, adhering to standards.
  • Maintains specifications by observing drilling, grooving, and cutting, including turning, facing.
  • Documents actions by completing production and quality logsPlans stock inventory by checking stock to determine amount available.
  • Operate cleaning equipment (vapor degreaser, etc.)
  • Operate multiple machines at one time.
  • Operate state-of-the-art inspection equipment.
  • Monitor product quality and adhere to dimensional compliance.
  • Record daily production data.
  • Contribute toward continuous improvement.
  • Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading technical publications.

 Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time.
  • Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction.
  • Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.
  • Process Improvement
  • Strong attention to detail, ability to multi-task, ability to anticipate, think ahead and plan.
  • Ability to work in a team, strong interpersonal skills, effective communication skills.

 Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 Education and/or Experience

  • Equivalent to high school education or related experience or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Prior CNC Swiss Lathe experience preferred

 

Physical Demands

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to perform repetitive tasks. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and depth perception.

 

Work Environment

  • The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Work near moving mechanical parts.
  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.

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