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Meat Processing Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Machine Operator

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$10 - $48/hr

US1292 Buckhead Meat Midwest Inc.-Illinois Division Sales Territory: None Zip Code: 60140 Travel ... Responsible for the full life cycle of products through the Packaging Process * Match tickets with ...

Machine Operator

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

US1292 Buckhead Meat Midwest Inc.-Illinois Division Sales Territory: None Zip Code: 60140 Travel ... Responsible for the full life cycle of products through the Packaging Process * Match tickets with ...

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL

$21.35 - $22.10/hr

These are go-to-work positions -- the process is very quick and streamlined, and all interviews go directly through me. This is a great opportunity for candidates with manufacturing and machine ...

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Machine Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$21.35 - $23.50/hr

These are go-to-work positions -- the process is very quick and streamlined, and all interviews go directly through me. This is a great opportunity for candidates with manufacturing and machine ...

Verify correct setup, in-process materials, and finished goods. * Operate, clean, and maintain at least one designated machine/line. * Serve as a backup operator for an additional machine in the area.

Identify opportunities for improvement in material waste, scrap, cosmetic defects, and/or process ... Interested in this Machine Operating Position? Apply now or call (630) 752.1128.

Machine Operator

Lincolnwood, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. We are looking for a skilled Machine Operator to ... screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law. We are an equal opportunity ...

Machine Operator

Lincolnwood, IL

$17 - $20.25/hr

Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. We are looking for a skilled Machine Operator to ... screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law. We are an equal opportunity ...

Machine Operator

Chicago Heights, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the manufacturing process by efficiently operating and maintaining production machinery to ensure consistent product quality and safety. This position ...

MACHINE OPERATOR IN WOODRIDGE, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Machine Operator ... Maintains security for user data during processing. * Takes on positive leadership (non-management ...

Machine Operator

Chicago Heights, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the manufacturing process by efficiently operating and maintaining production machinery to ensure consistent product quality and safety. This position ...

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Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Machine Operator will primarily work with injection molding and packaging machines, ensuring efficient setup, operation, and quality throughout the production process. This role involves close ...

Machine Operator Union $24.56 Starting

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Machine Operator This role operates in a metal processing facility that takes large coils of stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and steel and cuts them into smaller coils or large sheets. You will ...

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Showing results 1-20

Meat Processing Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$20

$27

How much do meat processing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat processing machine operator in Chicago, IL is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Meat Processing Machine Operator vs Butcher?

AspectMeat Processing Machine OperatorButcher
CredentialsTypically requires food safety certifications and machinery operation trainingMay require food handling certifications, but less focus on machinery
Work EnvironmentFactories or processing plants with machineryButcher shops, meat markets, or restaurants
Employer & IndustryMeat processing plants, food manufacturing companiesButcher shops, grocery stores, restaurants
Job FocusOperating and maintaining meat processing machineryCutting, trimming, and preparing meat for sale or service

While both roles involve working with meat, Meat Processing Machine Operators focus on machinery operation in processing plants, whereas butchers handle meat cutting and preparation in retail or food service settings. The roles differ mainly in work environment and specific skills required.

Infographic showing various Meat Processing Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,617 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Processing Machine Operator I -1st Shift

Processing Machine Operator I -1st Shift

John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

Elgin, IL • On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


John B. Sanfilippo & Son rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 380 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Summary:

The Machine Operator I is responsible for operating, leading, and maintaining packaging machinery-including baggers/fillers, indexers, cappers, case packers/makers, and sealers-and/or a production line. This role ensures equipment runs efficiently and meets all quality and production KPIs with minimal supervision.

Functions Of The Position:

  • Machine Setup & Maintenance Set up machines by loading materials, adjusting dies and films, and configuring settings. Perform mechanical changeovers and monitor machine performance. Troubleshoot issues, report concerns to leadership and assist with repairs to minimize downtime. Conduct weekly or bi-weekly preventive maintenance.
  • Production Compliance Follow work orders, quality control standards, and sanitation procedures related to weights, packaging, product descriptions, dates, UPCs, cleanup, and changeovers.
  • Quality & Waste Control Perform quality checks and monitor material waste to ensure compliance with standards.
  • Team Leadership & Training Direct and instruct line personnel on specific tasks. Train other Level I machine operators.
  • Operational Checks & Documentation (5Conduct pre-operational inspections and complete required documentation before and after production runs.
  • Performance Standards Consistently meet or exceed production, quality, and safety benchmarks.
  • Material Handling & Support Load products into hoppers, stack and pack items, and perform other duties as needed. Train line personnel on job-specific tasks.
  • Machine Cleaning Clean machines thoroughly after production runs or changeovers.
  • Work Area Maintenance Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready workspace. Perform tasks such as sweeping, mopping, and equipment cleaning. Carry out additional duties as assigned.

JBSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Allqualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.