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Operator Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

International Paper

General Helper

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$23.31/hr

Operating machines * Utilizing basic math * Inspecting * Accurately completing quality and administrative documents * Following directions. You will also be assigned to clean-up functions such as:

Caliber Collision

Auto Shop Helper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$22/hr

The Auto Shop Helper will also follow all guidelines in accordance with Caliber's Standard Operating Procedure and center procedures, which allows teammates to complete repairs in a timely manner.

Technipaq

Lamination Helper - night shift

Cary, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... Operator with the highest level of running machine time, while still producing a quality product in accordance with the customer's specifications. The helper reports to our Production Manager but ...

Caliber Collision

Auto Shop Helper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$22/hr

The Auto Shop Helper will also follow all guidelines in accordance with Caliber's Standard Operating Procedure and center procedures, which allows teammates to complete repairs in a timely manner.

Aerotek

Production Helper/Packager

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$18.75/hr

Ability to follow safety guidelines, Good Manufacturing Practices, and standard operating ... year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals ...

A Finkl & Sons Co

Melt Shop Helper

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.48/hr

As a Melt Shop Helper, you will play a crucial role in the production process of steel ... Experience operating overhead cranes and/or forklifts a plus, but not required Responsibilities:

A Finkl & Sons Co

MELT SHOP HELPER

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.48/hr

As a Melt Shop Helper, you will play a crucial role in the production process of steel ... Experience operating overhead cranes and/or forklifts a plus, but not required Responsibilities:

5T Management

SEIU Local 1 Helper C (5TMSP)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $18.50/hr

We operate with an owner-operator mindset: every community we manage is treated with the same care ... About the Role The Helper C supports on-site janitorial operations at an assigned CHA community.

5T Management

SEIU Local 1 Helper A (5TMSP)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

We operate with an owner-operator mindset: every community we manage is treated with the same care ... About the Role The Helper A supports building operations and janitorial services at an assigned CHA ...

5T Management

SEIU Local 1 Helper A (5TMSP)

Chicago, IL

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

We operate with an owner-operator mindset: every community we manage is treated with the same care ... About the Role The Helper A supports building operations and janitorial services at an assigned CHA ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in Illinois

Operator Helper information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Illinois is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator helper?

Operator Helpers assist machine operators, technicians, or skilled workers in manufacturing, construction, or production environments. Their duties often include preparing materials, maintaining equipment, cleaning work areas, and helping ensure smooth operation of machinery. They play a vital role in supporting workflow, reducing downtime, and keeping the workplace safe and efficient. Operator Helpers typically work under direct supervision and may advance to more specialized roles with experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Helper, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, hand tools, and sometimes forklift certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are crucial soft skills for supporting operators and maintaining a safe work environment. These abilities ensure smooth production processes, minimize downtime, and contribute to overall workplace safety and efficiency.

What are some common challenges operator helpers face on the job, and how can they overcome them?

Operator Helpers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced environments, maintaining safety standards, and learning to operate different types of machinery. To overcome these challenges, it's important to be proactive in communicating with team members, strictly follow safety protocols, and seek out on-the-job training opportunities. Building strong relationships with experienced operators can also help new Operator Helpers gain valuable insights and hands-on experience, making it easier to navigate daily responsibilities and advance within the team.

What is the difference between Operator Helper vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator HelperEquipment Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings assisting equipment operatorsConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings operating heavy machinery
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors as support staffUsed in similar sectors but with responsibility for operating machinery
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level support roles in machinery operationLearning about operating heavy equipment and related roles

The main difference between an Operator Helper and an Equipment Operator is that the Helper assists with supporting tasks and does not operate heavy machinery independently, while the Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and controlling machinery directly. Both roles are essential in industrial and construction environments, but they differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Operator Helper job openings:

Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,279 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

General Helper

International Paper

Carol Stream, IL • On-site

$23.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 296 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

325th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

Position Title:

Production Associate 

Pay Rate: 

$23.31.

Category/Shift: 

2nd Shift  

3rd Shift

Physical Location:

Carol Stream, IL

The Job You Will Perform: 

We are looking for motivated individuals who are capable of performing a multitude of functions in a flexible, fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is a 2nd and 3rd  shift position, paying $23.31/hour + $0.25/hour shift differential. Plus a sign on bonus of up to $1000! 

Our workplace requires individuals who understand the needs of the business while maintaining a focus on:

  • Safety
  • Customer satisfaction
  • Quality
  • Productivity

The Skills You Will Bring: 

Two years of work experience in a manufacturing environment with at least one year with the same employer preferred. Specific responsibilities include:

  • Counting 

  • Stacking finished product

  • Reading spec sheets

  • Operating machines

  • Utilizing basic math

  • Inspecting

  • Accurately completing quality and administrative documents

  • Following directions. 

You will also be assigned to clean-up functions such as:

  • Blowing down the machine

  • Cleaning ink systems

  • Vacuuming 

  • Sweeping the machine area

  • Picking up scrap and general housekeeping

The Benefits You Will Enjoy:

International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets. 

The Career You Will Build:

Sales and Leadership training, promotional opportunities within a global company

The Impact You Will Make:

We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP. 

The Culture You Will Experience:

International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. You will learn Safety Leadership Principles and have the opportunity to opt into Employee Networking Circles such as IPVets, IPride, Women in IP, and the African American ENC. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly diverse culture.

The Company You Will Join:

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what's next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2024 were $18.6 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.

What International Paper employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898

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