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Operator Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Quanex is looking for a Spacer Operator/ Operator III to join our team in Chatsworth, Illinois. The primary responsibility of the spacer operator is to laser weld and roll form the spacer machine at ...

Quanex is looking for a Spacer Operator/ Operator III to join our team in Chatsworth, Illinois. The primary responsibility of the spacer operator is to laser weld and roll form the spacer machine at ...

Quanex is looking for a Spacer Operator/ Operator III to join our team in Chatsworth, Illinois. The primary responsibility of the spacer operator is to laser weld and roll form the spacer machine at ...

Operator

Morton, IL · On-site

$20.50/hr

The Operator position is an active member of a production team that will assist in the manufacturing and/or assembly of building components to ensure daily production needs are being met. Open ...

The Operator position is an active member of a production team that will assist in the manufacturing and/or assembly of building components to ensure daily production needs are being met. Open ...

Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$23.18/hr

The Operator will rotate through assignments with varying shifts of : 1st, 2nd and 3rd including weekends in order to become familiar with all aspects of the district operations for up to two years.

Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$23.18/hr

The Operator will rotate through assignments with varying shifts of : 1st, 2nd and 3rd including weekends in order to become familiar with all aspects of the district operations for up to two years.

Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Operator will rotate through assignments with varying shifts of : 1st, 2nd and 3rd including weekends in order to become familiar with all aspects of the district operations for up to two years.

Operator I Classification: Hourly Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager Department: Cold Chain pilot equipment Summary of Job The Operator I plays a key role in our production team ...

Operator I Classification: Hourly Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager Department: Cold Chain pilot equipment Summary of Job The Operator I plays a key role in our production team ...

Operator

Marissa, IL · On-site

$24/hr

JOB SUMMARY Operators are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant equipment and performing site work based on accepted company procedures. Duties will include overseeing the loading ...

Operator

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Operations Manager and taking daily direction from a Shift Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at ...

Operator

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Operations Manager and taking daily direction from a Shift Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at ...

Operator

Marissa, IL · On-site

$24/hr

JOB SUMMARY Operators are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant equipment and performing site work based on accepted company procedures. Duties will include overseeing the loading ...

Operator I Classification: Hourly Reports To: Pilot Production and Site Manager Department: Cold Chain pilot equipment Sign on Bonus: $3,000!!!! Summary of Job The Operator I plays a key role in our ...

Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

The successful candidate will be responsible for Operating or tending to equipment in order to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of chemicals at Stepan Millsdale. • Moving ...

Operator

Elwood, IL

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

The successful candidate will be responsible for Operating or tending to equipment in order to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of chemicals at Stepan Millsdale. Moving control ...

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Operator Operator information

How much do operators make?

Operators' salaries vary depending on the industry, experience, and location, but the median annual wage for equipment operators in the United States was around $48,000 as of 2022. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized training can earn higher wages, and some may work overtime or night shifts that increase their earnings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an operator operator?

To thrive as an Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with standard operating procedures for machinery or equipment. Experience with industry-specific tools, safety certifications, and systems such as SCADA or PLCs is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills make an Operator stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of equipment in industrial or manufacturing environments.

What does an operator operator do?

An Operator Operator usually monitors and controls machinery or equipment, ensuring smooth and efficient production processes. Daily tasks include inspecting equipment for proper functioning, recording data, troubleshooting minor issues, and adhering to safety protocols. One of the common challenges is responding quickly to unexpected malfunctions or process deviations, which requires strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Operators often work as part of a team, coordinating with supervisors, maintenance staff, and quality control to maintain productivity and safety standards.

What is the difference between Operator Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectOperator OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesFactories, construction sites, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageCommon in various manufacturing sectorsCommon in manufacturing, construction, and production industries
Comparison Search IntentYesYes

Operator Operator and Machine Operator roles share similarities in work environment and industry usage, often requiring similar credentials. However, Operator Operator may involve overseeing multiple machines or processes, while Machine Operators typically focus on operating specific equipment. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and industrial settings, with overlapping skills and responsibilities.

What does operator mean for a job?

An operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery, equipment, or systems in various industries such as manufacturing, construction, or transportation. The role typically requires technical skills, safety training, and sometimes certifications, and involves monitoring, controlling, and maintaining equipment to ensure efficient operation.

What is an operator operator?

An Operator Operator is typically responsible for monitoring and controlling machines, equipment, or systems in various industries, such as manufacturing, utilities, or transportation. Their duties often include starting and stopping machinery, observing gauges and meters, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting issues to ensure efficient and safe operations. Operators must follow strict safety protocols and may be required to maintain records of operations and report any anomalies. The specific responsibilities can vary depending on the industry and the type of equipment involved.

Which operator operator job pays the most?

Among operator roles, heavy equipment operators, such as crane or bulldozer operators, tend to have the highest salaries due to the specialized skills and certifications required. Industrial machine operators and control room operators in energy or manufacturing sectors also earn higher wages, especially with experience and relevant certifications. Salary levels vary based on industry, location, and experience, but these roles generally offer the highest pay within the operator job category.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Operator Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Operator Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Operator Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Quanex rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

424th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Quanex is looking for a Spacer Operator/ Operator III to join our team in Chatsworth, Illinois.

The primary responsibility of the spacer operator is to laser weld and roll form the spacer machine at standard rate while producing a high-quality part that meets the customer’s requirements.

Monday- Thursday: 3:00pm-1:00am.

We Offer You!

  • Competitive Wage
  • Bonus Potential
  • 401K with 5% company match, yours to keep after 2 years
  • 15% immediate return if you participate in the company's ESPP
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Plans
  • Employer paid disability plans and life insurance
  • Paid Time Off & Holidays
    • Tuition support for degree and continuous education
    • Employee Resource Groups focused on employee empowerment

    What’s attractive about the Spacer Operator position?

    • Independent work environment
    • Full Time

    What Success Looks Like:

    • Monitors product to ensure quality standards are being met and rejects product that does not meet quality standards.
    • Keeps the work area in a neat and orderly condition in compliance with 5S standards.
    • Accurately, thoroughly, and legibly completes production reports and other documentation.
    • Promotes teamwork by cooperating and supporting co-workers.
    • Troubleshoots department processes.

    What You Bring:

    • Must be able to perform basic math with the use of decimals and fractions.
    • Must be able to read and write and interpret production prints.
    • Must be able to work well with others.
    • Display a positive attitude and a strong desire to learn and grow.
    • Mechanical ability a plus.

    The hourly wage for this position is $19.00/hr + $2.00/hr Shift Differential. 

    About Quanex, A Part of Something Bigger Quanex (NYSE: NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the performance and aesthetics of end products through continuous innovation, helping customers achieve greater production efficiencies, dedication to giving back to communities where we operate, producing shareholder value and helping our employees learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at Quanex.com.


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