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Machine Operator 1St Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

This role is responsible for operating various types of machinery, as needed, and as described by assigned leadership. Job Responsibilities • Job is an individual contributor. • Job is an ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

This role is responsible for operating various types of machinery, as needed, and as described by assigned leadership. Job Responsibilities • Job is an individual contributor. • Job is an ...

Paid vacation and Paid holidays Shift: 1st Shift, 5:30am - 2:00pm, M-F Starting hiring rate: $22.47 ... machinery over time. * Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and obtain a Lift Truck Operator's license.

Paid vacation and Paid holidays Shift: 1st Shift, 5:30am - 2:00pm, M-F Starting hiring rate: $22.47 ... machinery over time. * Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and obtain a Lift Truck Operator's license.

Paid vacation and Paid holidays Shift: 1st Shift, 5:30am - 2:00pm, M-F Starting hiring rate: $22.47 ... machinery over time. * Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and obtain a Lift Truck Operator's license.

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Machine Operator 1St information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do machine operator 1st jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator 1st in Chicago, IL is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Operator 1St vs Machine Operator 2Nd?

AspectMachine Operator 1StMachine Operator 2Nd
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, additional certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, factoriesManufacturing plants, factories, sometimes more complex machinery
Employer UsageEntry-level or primary machine operation rolesSupporting or secondary roles, often assisting or overseeing
Common Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level machine operationClarifying roles with similar titles or responsibilities

Machine Operator 1St and Machine Operator 2Nd roles are both essential in manufacturing, with the 1St typically being entry-level and the 2Nd often supporting or assisting. The main differences lie in experience, certifications, and job responsibilities, with the 2Nd usually requiring more experience or specialized skills.

How to become a machine operator 1st with no experience?

To become a first-level machine operator with no experience, you should look for entry-level positions that provide on-the-job training, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific courses. Having basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols can improve your chances of being hired and trained for the role.

How to get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through entry-level manufacturing or technical training programs. Developing skills in operating specific machinery, understanding safety protocols, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects.

What does a machine operator 1 do?

A Machine Operator 1 is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring manufacturing equipment to produce products according to specifications. They perform routine maintenance, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may need to read technical manuals or use measurement tools. This role often requires attention to detail and adherence to quality standards.

What job categories do people searching Machine Operator 1St jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Operator 1St jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Machine Operator 1St jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Machine Operator 1St job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator 1St job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,967 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Machine Operator 1st Shift

OSI Group

West Chicago, IL

$19.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


OSI Group rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

276th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

This role is responsible for operating various types of machinery, as needed, and as described by assigned leadership. Job Responsibilities • Job is an individual contributor. • Job is an individual contributor and has no direct reports. • Set up assigned equipment each day according to the posted production schedule and as required based on the product specifications. Disassemble at the close of each day for sanitation. • Monitor equipment operations: troubleshoot and resolve basic malfunctions, notify supervision and the maintenance staff when significant issues occur. • Data recording, entry, and adjustment as needed • Calibrate systems to time, temperature, and positions of equipment. • Record and interpret temperatures as related to the process. • Use, read and record measuring devices and product parameters. • Monitoring equipment daily and taking corrective measures to resolve issues. • Work with the maintenance staff to establish and implement preventative maintenance programs and best practice equipment operation methods. • Notify management or supervisory staff if unusual or out of spec operations are identified. • Perform general housekeeping duties in the production area: maintenance a safe and clean work area while in compliance with existing policy. • Take ownership and responsibility for the equipment and machinery. • Comply with organization policies including, but not limited to, safety, good manufacturing practices, food safety, and employment and work rules. • This role has the responsibility to understand and places in practice appropriate safety procedures. This responsibility is achieved through education, training, use of protective equipment (as applicable) and by following safety policies, regulations, standards, and laws. • Perform other duties as assigned. Experience & Skills • 0-1 years of experience in related field is preferred. • Excellent proficiency in all Microsoft Office Suite Products. • Ability to perform comparative analysis and make recommendations. • Ability to understand and follow verbal instructions. • Ability to read and follow a designated recipe. • Basic understanding of units of measure and their applications. • Ability to read, understand and follow written specifications, blueprints, or schematics in English. Education • High School Diploma and/or equivalent work experience is required. Work Environment • Work can be performed within a manufacturing plant environment with noise, extreme temperatures, and significant movement of powered equipment, people and conveyor (may depend on the role). • Work conditions are typical of a food manufacturing facility. • This role does not require any domestic travel • Position may require the physical agility of lifting up to 50 pounds • Position may require frequent and/or infrequent of bending, squatting, pushing, pulling, stretching/reaching, use hands or fingers, talk, hear, feel objects, tools, controls, and standing/walking on concrete flooring. • Position may require the physical ability to stand/walk for Greater than 4 hours.Compensation/BenefitsWe are committed to fair and transparent pay practices. The hourly pay range for this position is $19.75 to $24.25 per hour. The final hourly rate offered will be based on factors such as relevant experience, skills, education, internal equity, and market considerations.Additional Compensation:This position may also be eligible for overtime pay, shift differentials, and/or bonus opportunities, as applicable.Benefits:We offer a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off and holidays, and more. A full summary of benefits will be provided upon hire. Compensation information is available on our careers site. If you are viewing this role on a third-party platform and do not see pay details, please visit our careers page www.osigroup.com/careers/ for full transparency.This pay range represents the company’s good faith estimate at the time of posting.

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