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Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Location: Minonk, IL Pay Range: * Machine Operator A: $23.00 - $29.16 * Machine Operator B: $21.00 - $26.54 * Machine Operator C: $19.00 - $24.31 $2.50/hr Shift Premium ...

Machine Operator

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up and operating various types of production machinery and equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role works closely with production ...

Threader Machine operator This position is a temp to hire position Location Joliet, IL Pay Rate $17-$20/hour Shift/Schedule * Monday - Friday 7am-3:30pm with lots of OT Call Michelle for more ...

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Machine Operator The Machine Operator plays a crucial role in the production of commercial refrigeration and cooling systems by operating and monitoring manufacturing equipment. This position ensures ...

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Machine Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Threader Machine operator This position is a temp to hire position Location Joliet, IL Pay Rate $17-$20/hour Shift/Schedule * Monday - Friday 7am-3:30pm with lots of OT Call Michelle for more ...

Machine Operator Location: Chicago Heights, IL 60411 Assignment Type: Temp-to-Hire Shift: 6:00am - 6:00pm Pay Rate: $16.50-$19.00/hr (Depending on Experience) Job Summary The Machine Operator works ...

Machine Operator Location: Chicago Heights, IL 60411 Assignment Type: Temp-to-Hire Shift: 6:00am - 6:00pm Pay Rate: $16.50-$19.00/hr (Depending on Experience) Job Summary The Machine Operator works ...

Machine Operator Packaging Location: Bolingbrook, IL Job Type: Full-time Pay: $18/hour Shift/Schedule: 2:30pm-1am, M-Thurs About the Role We're hiring a dependable Machine Operator to support ...

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Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Location: Minonk, IL Pay Range: * Machine Operator A: $23.00 - $29.16 * Machine Operator B: $21.00 - $26.54 * Machine Operator C: $19.00 - $24.31 $2.50/hr Shift Premium ...

Machine Operator

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. Assembles mechanical units or fabricated parts to make sub-assemblies or complete products within routine and repetitive assembly operations. Uses ...

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$19 - $22.50/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR IN ELGIN, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our team in Elgin, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for handling the computer ...

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Machine Operator B

Minonk, IL · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Location: Minonk, IL Pay Range: * Machine Operator A: $23.00 - $29.16 * Machine Operator B: $21.00 - $26.54 * Machine Operator C: $19.00 - $24.31 $2.50/hr Shift Premium ...

Machine Operator

Murphysboro, IL

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. Assembles mechanical units or fabricated parts to make sub-assemblies or complete products within routine and repetitive assembly operations. Uses ...

MACHINE OPERATOR IN BLOOMINGDALE, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our team in Bloomingdale, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for ensuring ...

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Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Location: Minonk, IL Pay Range: * Machine Operator A: $23.00 - $29.16 * Machine Operator B: $21.00 - $26.54 * Machine Operator C: $19.00 - $24.31 $2.50/hr Shift Premium ...

MACHINE OPERATOR IN BLOOMINGDALE, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our team in Bloomingdale, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for ensuring ...

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Machine Operator - Bensenville, IL $18.38/hr (2ND SHIFT) 3PM-11PM MONDAY-FRIDAY OR $19.25/hr (3RD SHIFT) 11PM-7AM MONDAY-FRIDAY The Machine Operator (Helper Operator) supports high-speed production ...

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The Machine Operator / Operating Technician for our Bars Soap department works with other team members in the total operation of the mixing, extrusion, pressing and packaging equipment in the ...

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Machine Operator Build Something That Moves the World Forward We're looking for a hands-on Machine Operator who takes pride in precision, quality, and getting the job done right. In this role, you'll ...

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Showing results 1-20

Machine Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator 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 equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

While most machine operator roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level positions in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or executive management can exceed this income level. Achieving such earnings typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and often leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $3,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like offshore drilling or certain construction projects. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with long hours or high risk.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience working with specialized machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator roles are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where advanced skills and certifications are required. These positions may offer higher salaries due to the technical expertise, safety requirements, and experience needed, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

What are machine operators?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

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 mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What Do Machine Operators Do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

What is the work of machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot issues as needed, often following safety protocols and using tools like control panels or gauges.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,655 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

$19 - $25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Now Hiring: Machine Operator – 2nd Shift

Location: Minonk, IL
Pay Range: 

  • Machine Operator A: $23.00 – $29.16

  • Machine Operator B: $21.00 – $26.54

  • Machine Operator C: $19.00 – $24.31
    $2.50/hr Shift Premium Included
    Classification based on experience and skills test performance


Start Your Career with SMF – Where Precision Meets Purpose!

At SMF Inc., an Etnyre International Company, we’re not just offering jobs—we’re building long-term careers. With over 50 years of success in metal manufacturing, we proudly serve the construction, agriculture, power generation, and mining industries as a trusted Tier One supplier to Fortune 500 OEMs.

We are currently looking for experienced and motivated Machine Operator to join our 2nd shift team. If you're passionate about safety, precision, and continuous improvement, we want to hear from you!


Machine Operator Responsibilities:
  • Safely operate first-cut machines and related production equipment

  • Follow blueprints and specifications to ensure product accuracy

  • Recognize and troubleshoot machine malfunctions independently

  • Operate overhead cranes with attention to safety protocols

  • Maintain production flow while achieving daily quality standards

  • Assist with training new team members and transfers

  • Keep work areas clean and compliant with safety/quality standards

    Total Rewards You’ll Love:
  • Annual Bonus Program for All Employees

  • Annual Wage Increases

  • Shift Premium: $2.50/hour for 2nd Shift or 3rd shift

  • 11 Paid Holidays + 3 Paid Break Days

  • Generous PTO (Vacation & Flex Time)

  • Affordable Health Insurance (PPO & HSA Options)

  • Low/No-Cost Dental & Vision Coverage

  • Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Coverage Options

  • ‍‍‍ Company-Paid Life, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

  • 401(k) with Company Match + Annual Profit Sharing

Qualifications:
  • Technical certification or equivalent on-the-job machine operating experience

  • Mechanical aptitude and strong math skills

  • Demonstrated ability to read technical drawings and blueprints

  • Experience operating overhead cranes in a safe, efficient manner

  • Proven ability to spot and resolve machine issues

  • Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset

  • Physical ability to manually lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long durations

Why Join SMF?

SMF offers a collaborative, growth-driven culture where your voice is heard and your work is valued. With over 200,000 sq. ft. of production space, we provide unmatched opportunities to advance your career in fabrication, machining, and manufacturing operations. Our team is proud to be ranked in the top 0.5% of machine shops nationwide, and we’re just getting started.


Ready to take the next step in your machine operator career?
Join a team where your skills are respected, your growth is supported, and your future is bright.

Apply now and start building your future with SMF!


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