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Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs in Illinois

Production Operator

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Location Decatur, IL, USA Company Background TCCI Manufacturing is a world leader in compressor ... To this end, the company is actively recruiting a Production Operator who will focus on feeding raw ...

Operator II

Gurnee, IL

$19.68 - $35.43/hr

We are seeking dependable and detail-oriented Production Operators to join a leading plastics manufacturing facility in Gurnee, IL. This is a temp-to-hire opportunity offering competitive pay ...

Production Operator

Pecatonica, IL ยท On-site

$25.22/hr

TreeHouse Foods is a leading manufacturer of private label packaged foods and beverages, operating a network of over 20 production facilities and several corporate offices across the United States ...

Production Operator

Pecatonica, IL ยท On-site

$25.22/hr

TreeHouse Foods is a leading manufacturer of private label packaged foods and beverages, operating a network of over 20 production facilities and several corporate offices across the United States ...

Showing results 41-60

Manufacturing Production Operative information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$18

$38

How much do manufacturing production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing production operative in Illinois is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.44 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing production operative?

A Manufacturing Production Operative is a worker responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring production processes run smoothly in a factory or manufacturing environment. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, following safety procedures, and maintaining quality standards. These operatives play a crucial role in keeping production lines efficient and meeting output targets. No formal qualifications are usually required, but attention to detail and the ability to work well in a team are important. Training is often provided on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing production operative?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Production Operative, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and quality control systems is typically required, and some positions may prefer candidates with forklift or OSHA certifications. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production processes, ensuring workplace safety, and delivering consistent product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing production operatives, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Production Operatives often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality during fast-paced production runs and adapting to new machinery or processes. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and communicating effectively with team members can help manage these challenges. Regular training sessions and a supportive team environment also play a key role in ensuring operatives can quickly adapt to changes and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Production Operative vs Manufacturing Assembly Worker?

AspectManufacturing Production OperativeManufacturing Assembly Worker
CredentialsBasic training, health & safety certificationsBasic training, health & safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFactory floor, production linesFactory floor, assembly lines
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing plantsCommonly used in manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating machinery, quality checksAssembling components, following instructions

Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often overlapping in work environment and required skills. The Manufacturing Production Operative typically involves operating machinery and quality control, while the Manufacturing Assembly Worker focuses on assembling parts. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role suited to their skills and career goals.

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Manufacturing Production Operative job openings:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Production Operative job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,322 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

UPCOMING JOB FAIR Manufacturing Production & Packaging Operator (Thursday, September 10, 2026)

GEORGIA NUT COMPANY

Skokie, IL โ€ข On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

About the Role

Life is sweeter at Georgia Nut.

We are seeking reliable, detail-oriented, and passionate people to join our production team. In this role, youโ€™ll support daily manufacturing operations by running equipment and monitoring production processes while ensuring products meet quality and safety standards. If you enjoy hands-on work and thrive in a fast-paced environment where you are respected and valued, this position could be a great fit.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manual lifting of products into and out of production equipment.
  • Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot assigned production equipment.
  • Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety rules, and quality guidelines.
  • Perform routine checks to ensure machinery is functioning properly.
  • Accurately complete production logs, documentation, and inventory records.
  • Collaborate with team members and communicate production issues promptly.

Qualifications

Required

  • Ability to work 8-hour shift (assigned any of the 7 days) OR .12-hour shifts every Saturday & Sunday (7am-7pm OR 7pm-7am).
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in a repetitive-motion environment.
  • Basic math, reading, and mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn equipment and job duties.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced setting with minimal supervision.

Preferred

  • Previous experience in manufacturing, production, or related industrial environments.
  • Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement processes.

Schedule & Work Environment

  • 8-Hour Shift (1st, 2nd, 3rd assigned any of the 7 days of the week)
  • 12 Hours Shift (7am-7pm OR 7pm-7am)
  • Manufacturing floor environment with noise, machinery, and occasional exposure to production material components.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Hourly Rate: $18.00 - 23.00 per hour plus shift differential for 7pm-7am Shift.
  • Benefits include: 90% employer paid benefits on all plans beginning the first of the month following employment including BCBS health insurance (with blue choice options), dental insurance, vision insurance, immediate paid holidays, 5% 401(k) match, 12 paid holidays, paid sick leave, and other voluntary benefits (short term disability, long-term disability, additional life insurance, pet insurance, fitness membership with LA Fitness, EAP, employee discount at company store)
  • Ability to grow and advance within manufacturing environment including additional pay increases with additional responsibilities.

JOIN US ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 FROM 9AM-2PM.
7500 Linder Ave, Skokie, IL 60077