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Machine Shop Jobs in Highland, IL (NOW HIRING)

Read blueprints and shop orders, use calipers, squares, and tape measure for checking dimensions. * Operate and set up production machinery. * Be responsible for safety, quality, production quotas ...

Read blueprints and shop orders, use calipers, squares, and tape measure for checking dimensions. * Operate and set up production machinery. * Be responsible for safety, quality, production quotas ...

Press Operator

Breese, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

... file preparation, Photo Shop, Illustrator, Indesign and various RIP servers. ROLES AND ... Machine Software Our Company offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package ...

Press Operator

Breese, IL

$15 - $19.50/hr

... file preparation, Photo Shop, Illustrator, Indesign and various RIP servers. ROLES AND ... Machine Software Our Company offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package ...

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Machine Shop information

See Highland, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do machine shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop in Highland, IL is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine shop?

A machine shop job involves operating, maintaining, and programming machines such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders to manufacture metal or plastic parts. Workers in a machine shop may have roles like machinist, CNC operator, or tool and die maker. They follow blueprints and technical drawings to create precise components for industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. Strong attention to detail, mechanical skills, and knowledge of machining processes are essential for success in this role.

What does a typical day look like working in a machine shop?

A typical day in a machine shop involves setting up and operating various machines to manufacture or modify metal parts according to precise specifications. You'll often read blueprints or instructions, measure dimensions with specialized tools, and perform quality control checks on finished products. Collaboration with engineers, supervisors, and fellow machinists is common to troubleshoot issues and maintain smooth production. Safety is a top priority, and you may be responsible for maintaining equipment and keeping your workspace organized. The work is often hands-on and requires a focus on accuracy and efficiency throughout the shift.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the machine shop position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Machine Shop, you need strong mechanical aptitude, proficiency in operating machining equipment (such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders), and a solid understanding of safety protocols; a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, with additional technical certifications being highly beneficial. Familiarity with CNC programming, blueprint reading, precision measurement tools, and shop management software is often sought after. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills are essential to ensure high-quality production, prevent safety incidents, and maintain efficient workflow in a demanding manufacturing environment.

Do machine shop machinists make a lot of money?

Machine shop machinists typically earn wages that vary by experience, location, and industry, with median salaries often ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. Skilled machinists who operate CNC machines or hold certifications can earn higher wages, especially in specialized or high-demand environments.

What job categories do people searching Machine Shop jobs in Highland, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Shop jobs in Highland, IL are:

What cities near Highland, IL are hiring for Machine Shop jobs?

Cities near Highland, IL with the most Machine Shop job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Shop job openings in Highland, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,893 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Eaton Aerospace

Highland, IL • On-site

$24.87/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Hiring Immediately! Eaton's ES GEIS BLD division is currently seeking a Machine Operator - 2nd Shift at our Highland, IL facility! The core hours are Monday through Friday from 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm. Overtime may exceed these hours and be mandatory at times. The rate for this position is $24.87 per hour plus an additional $0.50 cent per hour shift premium.
Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based on candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Why work at Eaton? Below are a few of the outstand benefits we offer:
  • Health benefits effective day one of employment.
  • Retirement benefits, Paid Parental Leave, Educational Assistance Program, Wellness Reimbursement, and more!

What you'll do:
In this function, you will:
  • Read blueprints and shop orders, use calipers, squares, and tape measure for checking dimensions.
  • Operate and set up production machinery.
  • Be responsible for safety, quality, production quotas, and all documentation associated with product movement and confirmations.

Qualifications:
Basic Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED (General Education Degree) from an accredited institution.
  • No relocation is offered for this position. Only candidates within a 50-mile radius of the Highland, IL facility will be considered. Active-Duty Military Service Member candidates are exempt from the geographical area limitation.
  • Eaton will not consider applicants for employment immigration sponsorship or support for this position. This means that Eaton will not support any CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT plans, F-1 to H-1B cap registration, O-1, E-3, TN status, I-485 job portability, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Manufacturing or production experience.
  • Prior experience setting up and running production machinery, operating presses, press brakes, un-coilers, and/or cradle lines.

Position Success Criteria:
  • Physical requirements include but are not limited to the pushing and pulling of dies and positioning of full tubs and tub lifters for production access with or without accommodations.
  • Must be able to move, position, and/or lift parts or boxes weighing from a range of 10 - 50 lbs. with or without accommodations.
  • Available to work overtime as required.

#IND123
We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
Eaton believes in second chance employment. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction history will be considered regardless of their arrest or conviction history, consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act, and other local laws.
You do not need to disclose your conviction history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Eaton is concerned about a conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report.
To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application, or interview process, please call us at 1-800-836-6345 to discuss your specific need. Only accommodation requests will be accepted by this phone number.
We know that good benefit programs are important to employees and their families. Eaton provides various Health and Welfare benefits as well as Retirement benefits, and several programs that provide for paid and unpaid time away from work. Click here for more detail: Eaton Benefits Overview. Please note that specific programs and options available to an employee may depend on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.