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Operator Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Southern Company

Material Handling Helper

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Material/Handling Helpers are required to pick and pack material inventory on a daily basis, as ... The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in ...

Dover Chemical Corp

First Helpers

Hammond, IN · On-site

The First Helper supports production operations by assisting operators in safe and efficient processing of chemical products. Responsibilities include preparing raw materials, monitoring equipment ...

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 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 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 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

$16.25 - $21.25/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 · 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 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.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Operator Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in Chicago, IL is $18.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Operator Helper jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Operator Helper job openings:
Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,567 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Material Handling Helper

Southern Company

Glen Ellyn, IL • On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Southern Company rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Central Distribution Center is located in the Glen Ellyn Office and provides material services to offices located in the following areas: Aurora, Ottawa, DeKalb, Schaumburg, Elgin, Rockford, Freeport, Dixon, Crystal Lake, Ingleside, Glenwood, Crestwood, Kankakee, Glen Ellyn, Bellwood, Des Plaines, Joliet, Bloomington, Yorkville, Hudson, Pontiac, Troy Grove, Ancona, Sycamore, Morris, Shorewood, and Naperville.

Material/Handling Helpers are required to pick and pack material inventory on a daily basis, as well as make routine deliveries to various locations within the Nicor Gas Territory.  In addition, Material/Handling Helpers receive new material, and process returns along with other various warehouse duties.  This position requires the candidate perform their assigned duties each day while bending, stretching, kneeling, and crawling to reach inventory in various locations.

Material Handling Helpers must read maps in rural and non-rural areas. 

Requirements:

  • A valid driver's license with an excellent driving record
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to lift and transport up to 50 lbs. (meter, pipe fitting valves, prefabs, etc.)
  • Read and record data
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Operate a standard transmission vehicle
  • Operate a fork-lift, reach truck and manual or electric pallet jacks
  • Ability to accurately record data
  • Ability to work day/night shifts
  • Ability to read maps (in rural/non-rural areas)

Preferred:

  • CDL Class "B" License with Hazardous Material Certification

Hours:

Throughout training normal hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. -4:00 p.m. or 6:00 a.m. -.2:30 p.m.  Depending on department workload, evening and Saturday overtime can be scheduled with little or no notice.

Paid Training:

Training is classified as "On The Job" training and will take place in our Glen Ellyn, IL facility. 

Promotional Opportunities:

We are a union shop, regardless of previous experience or performance; all promotions are seniority based. Employees can bid on available positions and the employee with the most seniority is offered the position.  A successful Helper is reliable, prompt, dependable, independent, responsible, persistent, energetic, goal oriented, accurate and able to work with minimal supervision.

About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), America's premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.2 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and approximately 600,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate pipelines and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com.

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com. 

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf. Additional and specific details about total compensation and benets will also be provided during the hiring process.


Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Nicor Gas

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