Machine Operator Machine Operator Jobs in Niles, IL

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ABOUT US (AND OUR EXCITING FUTURE)

About The Opportunity

Essential Job Functions

The following duties are normal for this position. The incumbent may perform some or all of these duties however; it is not an exclusive or all-inclusive list. Other duties may be assigned.

• Set up, operate, and oversee advanced production machinery to ensure optimal performance, quality, and output.

• Perform complex machine adjustments, calibrations, and advanced troubleshooting with minimal supervision.

• Lead technical aspects of equipment operation, serving as the goto resource for resolving equipment issues before maintenance intervention is required.

• Monitor equipment performance throughout the shift and proactively identify inefficiencies, quality risks, or process deviations.

• Train, mentor, and support Machine Operators and Line Leads in proper equipment operation, setup, cleaning, and safety practices.

• Ensure all materials, components, and machine settings meet production specifications and quality standards.

• Perform and document machine changeovers, equipment inspections, and cleaning procedures following established protocols.

• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and leadership teams to communicate machine status, material needs, or operational concerns.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives by recommending enhancements to procedures, efficiency, and equipment use.

• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, food safety (if applicable), GMP, and operational policies across shifts.

• Maintain high levels of housekeeping, including machine cleanliness before, during, and after production runs.

• Contribute to meeting or exceeding production goals by effectively prioritizing tasks and maintaining machine uptime.

• Work collaboratively with production and quality teams to resolve equipment issues and optimize line performance at 85% per shift, with a target speed of 180 cans per minute OEE (overall equipment effectiveness).

• Assist Maintenance Team as needed.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma desired

• Mechanical and troubleshooting ability

• At least 3 years in manufacturing position

• At least 3 years in a machine operator position

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced ability to operate, set up, troubleshoot, and adjust multiple machine types with minimal supervision.

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose equipment issues and determine corrective actions.

• Ability to mentor, guide, and assist in the technical development of Machine Operators and Line Leads.

• Strong understanding of production workflows, quality standards, and operational performance metrics.

• Ability to interpret and apply written and verbal instructions, SOPs, and machine specifications.

• Effective communication with production, maintenance, and leadership regarding equipment or material concerns.

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and make critical decisions in a fast-paced environment.

• Solid math skills and ability to perform basic computer functions related to production reporting.

• Strong problem-solving abilities with a proactive approach to identifying inefficiencies and improvement opportunities.

• High accuracy and attention to detail while monitoring multiple process variables.

• Ability to support a strong safety and quality culture through daily behaviors and adherence to guidelines.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

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.

• Work is performed primarily in a fast-paced environment

• Ability to stand for the duration of the shift while monitoring and operating equipment.

• Frequent walking throughout the production area.

• Bending, lifting, reaching, grasping, pulling, and pushing materials or equipment as needed.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and move items short distances.

• Ability to climb stairs or equipment platforms as required for machine access.

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands, wrists, and arms during equipment adjustments or material handling.

• Work is performed primarily in a fast-paced production environment with moving mechanical parts.

• Exposure to noise, temperature changes, and manufacturing equipment.

• Must follow all plant safety, food safety, and GMP standards.

• Required to maintain a clean and organized work area, including machine cleaning before/after shifts and during changeovers.

All Menasha Packaging employees must conduct their work in a manner that complies with all legal standards and meets customer expectations. They will maintain quality standards by establishing, enforcing and adhering to organizational standards set forth in published policies, procedures and processes.

The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principle functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the occupation.

Menasha Packaging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the company will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with employer.

The expected salary range for this position is $31.00 per hour. This role is also eligible for an annual incentive plan and for a full benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance; basic term life, AD&D, Short- and Long-term disability; EAP; 401(k) retirement savings plan; PTO and paid holidays.

Two companies, one vision.

Menasha Corporation consists of two companies that are leading the way to a sustainable future with packaging and supply chain solutions. Founded in 1849 and headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, we employ over 7,500 employees in 112 facilities in North America and Europe.

Our companies are leading corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturers and supply chain solution providers. Our Menasha Packaging Company is the largest independent provider of packaging and supply chain service solutions in North America, designing, printing, and fulfilling graphic packaging, display and merchandising solutions for over 1,800 brands, both in-store and online.

Our ORBIS business believes there is a better way to optimize today's supply chains, with reusable packaging products and services. Reusable containers, pallets, dunnage, bulk systems and metal racks improve the flow product all along the supply chain to reduce costs, enhance profitability and add sustainability.

Our products and services are used by global, name-brand companies in the food, beverage, health and beauty, over-the-counter pharmaceutical, industrial, automotive, and electronics industries.

Come build an exciting, rewarding career with us, where you'll have opportunities to grow.

The possibilities are endless. The power is yours!

Menasha Corporation and its subsidiaries and affiliates are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will be provided with equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or genetic information.