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Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Korn Ferry Executive Search

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL

$22 - $24.15/hr

Korn Ferry Military Division has partnered with our client on their search for a Machine Operator based out of their Elgin IL (40 miles NW of Chicago) facility. They are a global manufacturer of ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Bedford Park, IL

$23.82/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR IN BEDFORD PARK, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our team in Bedford Park, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for operating ...

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Integrity Trade Services

Machine Operator

Joliet, IL

$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 ...

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Accurate Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Woodridge, IL

$19/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR IN WOODRIDGE, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our team in Woodridge, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for fully operating and ...

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New SPS LLC

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 ...

Integrity Trade Services

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 ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Chicago Heights, IL

$16.50 - $19/hr

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 ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Chicago Heights, IL

$16.50 - $19/hr

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 ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Bloomingdale, IL

$19.50/hr

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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Accurate Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL

$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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Accurate Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Alsip, IL

$20.21/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR IN ALSIP, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator to join our client in Alsip, IL. This individual will be responsible for operating bag making machines in ...

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McNichols Co

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

McNichols

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

DEO TEK, Inc

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Machine Operator Blue Collar Location: Elgin, IL. 60123 Shift Hours: 1 St 6:00 am - 2:30 pm 2 nd 4:30 pm - 1:00 am Shift Days: Monday - Friday. (Some Saturdays) Pay Rate: 1 St $16.00 / 2 nd $16.25 ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Northlake, IL

$24/hr

Slitting / Lamination Machine Operators needed in Northlake, Illinois! Kelly Services is seeking experienced Slitting/Lamination Machine Operators in Northlake, IL. Candidates must have slitter ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Melrose Park, IL

$24/hr

Slitting / Lamination Machine Operators needed in Northlake, Illinois! Kelly Services is seeking experienced Slitting/Lamination Machine Operators in Northlake, IL. Candidates must have slitter ...

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Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Northlake, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Machine Operators needed in Northlake, Illinois! What to bring: * Must have Steel toe shoes or boots. * Must also be able to email your resume for immediate consideration Kelly Services is seeking ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Machine Operators needed in Northlake, Illinois! What to bring: * Must have Steel toe shoes or boots. * Must also be able to email your resume for immediate consideration Kelly Services is seeking ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator 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 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.
More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you

Machine Operator

Korn Ferry Executive Search

Elgin, IL

$22 - $24.15/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

* PLEASE NOTE: this client is specifically seeking candidates with at least 4 years of Active Duty U.S. military experience *

Korn Ferry Military Division has partnered with our client on their search for a Machine Operator based out of their Elgin IL (40 miles NW of Chicago) facility. They are a global manufacturer of metal die cast precision components, offering plenty of room for career growth.

Compensation: $22.00-24.15/hour

What You Will Do:
  • Ensure the die is running properly; gather first off pieces following set-up and deliver to quality for inspection. 
  • Responsible for observing and checking assigned casting/molding machine operations. 
  • Responsible for observing quality of products for excessive flash, surface finish of casting and other obvious or specifically cautioned defects. 
  • Will be required to frequently lift, carry, and move material(s) (weight varies, up to 50lbs.)

Education and Work Experience
  • At least 4 years US Military Active Duty experience required (preferable targets: Aviation Maintenance Technicians, Navy Machinist's Mates (MM), Army Maintenance Technicians (91-series), Industrial Maintenance Technicians, Manufacturing Maintenance Mechanics, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, HVAC and Mechanical Systems Technicians)
  • Must have experience troubleshooting hydraulics, conveyors, gearboxes, bearings, pumps, motors, pneumatic systems, and production equipment.
  • Will be required to frequently lift, carry, and move material(s) (weight varies, up to 50lbs.)

Title: Machine Operator
Location: Elgin IL
Client Job ID: 510808094


******

Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates, and will refer candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis. Artificial Intelligence tools may be used in connection with the recruitment process for this position.

Employment Type: OTHER

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