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Machine Tender Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Press Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$30.36 - $38.58/hr

... Tenders Qualifications * At least 3 years printing experience * Demonstrated problem solving skills * Basic understanding of machinery (Hydraulics and Pneumatics) * Ability to use hand tools to ...

The employee will be working with electronic sorting equipment, precision measuring instruments, vibrator feeders, hand and fork lift trucks, scoops, weight scales, hoist and copy machine. PHYSICAL ...

... machines * Apply fertilizer and chemicals both safely and efficiently * Light mechanical duties to keep equipment maintained * Mix and deliver chemicals - Tender other operators * Work full-time ...

Responsible for function of complete line of equipment as well as feeder and tender assigned. * Trains and supervises all work assigned to Press Feeder and instructs oven tender on manner sheets are ...

Ability to learn and operate knife-grinding machinery. * Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic. * Monday-Thursday 4:30 PM-3:00 AM, ENJOY A 3 DAY WEEKEND! Requirements ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

C-Store Clerk

Quincy, IL

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

C-Store Clerk

Quincy, IL

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Ensures proper handling of all forms of tender and coupons * Bookkeeping - balance tills * Answers ... General upkeep of all machines (stores with gaming) * Maintain bill breaker machine (stores with ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Tender information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$16

$23

How much do machine tender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine tender in Illinois is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a machine tender might face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Tenders often face challenges such as managing equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent production quality, and working in fast-paced environments. To address these, it is important to closely follow operational protocols, conduct regular equipment checks, and communicate promptly with maintenance teams when issues arise. Developing strong troubleshooting skills and staying attentive to machine performance can help minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations. Additionally, collaborating with supervisors and other team members can make it easier to resolve issues efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine tender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Tender, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in machine operation or OSHA standards are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure machines run efficiently, safely, and with minimal downtime, directly impacting productivity and workplace safety.

What is the difference between Machine Tender vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine TenderMachine Operator
Required CertificationsTypically OSHA safety training, basic machinery operationOSHA safety training, machinery operation certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with machine setup, monitoring, and basic adjustmentsOperating, controlling, and maintaining machinery during production
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly lines, processing plantsCommon in manufacturing, heavy industry, production lines

Both Machine Tenders and Machine Operators work in manufacturing environments and require safety training. However, Machine Tenders typically assist with machine setup and monitoring, while Machine Operators are responsible for actively controlling and maintaining machinery during production. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in responsibility scope and certification requirements.

What is a machine tender?

Machine tenders are workers responsible for operating and monitoring industrial machines in manufacturing settings. Their primary duties include starting and stopping machinery, adjusting machine settings, inspecting products for quality, and troubleshooting basic equipment issues. Machine tenders ensure that production processes run smoothly and safely by maintaining equipment, reporting malfunctions, and following safety protocols. This role often requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to follow technical instructions.
What are popular job titles related to Machine Tender jobs in IL? For Machine Tender jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Machine Tender job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,885 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Press Operator

Novolex

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$30.36 - $38.58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 22 days ago


Novolex rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Company OverviewWhy Choose Us?

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.

Our Sustainability Commitment

The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.

Job Description

Press Operator

St. Charles, IL

Compensation Includes

  • Pay Range: $30.36/hr - $38.58/hr

Available Shift

  • 3rd: 11:00pm - 7:00am, Monday - Friday

Overview

The Press Operator position is responsible for consistently operating a zone of press machines at or above standard levels of operation considering waste, efficiency and utilization. Troubleshoot, identify, and correct machine related problems through proper adjustments to various parts of the machine. Provide innovative solutions for production problems.

Responsibilities

  • Reads and understands job jacket to ensure production is running according to specification
  • Performs machine make-ready to set it up to run proper production
  • Performs quality checks according to established procedures to ensure all Quality Standards (Color matches and Registration) are being met. Makes necessary adjustments to Press and other elements of the process as needed
  • Records and maintains data related to downtime, including amount of time, reason for downtime, and actions to correct problem
  • Performs machine trouble shooting and makes adjustments to correct quality or efficiency problems related to machine set up or mechanical defect
  • Keeps all waste and scrap within company guidelines
  • Assist in training of new employees and directing the daily duties of subordinates
  • Ensures correct inks are in place and are changed out when necessary
  • Stages rolls of paper at the back of the press using air activated roll pusher, manually pushing rolls into final position
  • Assist in removal of W.I.P pallets from press
  • Enters daily production data on PC located at Press and adjustments to press that are controlled by computer
  • Assists with staging rolls of paper at the back of the press, manually pushing rolls into final position
  • Be able to perform all roles associated with Off-bears, Assistants, and Roll Tenders

Qualifications

  • At least 3 years printing experience
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills
  • Basic understanding of machinery (Hydraulics and Pneumatics)
  • Ability to use hand tools to remove, install, and adjust parts of machine
  • Previous experience working in a press operator/head pressman/lead operator position is preferred
  • Previous working Flexo or Gravure presses is preferred

Physical Requirements & Environmental Conditions

  • Required to stand while performing essential duties of the job
  • Lift and handle cutting dies and counter plates weighing up to 200 pounds with the assistance of other members of the press crew on an occasional basis
  • Lift and carry 5-gallon ink pails weighing up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis
  • Assists in lifting cylinders weighing up to 150 pounds using a mechanical hoist on an occasional basis
  • Assist in lifting press rollers and stripper shells weighing up to 100 pounds on an occasional basis
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and effectively with little to no supervision
  • Positive work attitude and willingness to cooperate
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Pushing/moving of raw material and equipment required. Weight range will be from 100 to 2000 lbs
  • The noise level in the work environment is consistently above 85 decibels
  • Able to work with dust from paper converting process
  • The employee constantly works near moving mechanical parts and lift trucks
  • Ambient temp and humidity may be elevated during the summer months
Company BenefitsWhat You'll Get From UsBenefits

With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.

Community Engagement

At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.

Training and Development

We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through MyLearning. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union), and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.

Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact myHRservices@novolex.com.

Formerly Pactiv Evergreen

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Novolex employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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