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Operator Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. * Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations. Compensation DP ...

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

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Operator

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. * Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations. Compensation DP ...

Operator Location: Chicago, IL Division: Atlas Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries About the Role As an Operator at Zekelman Industries, you will play a key role in safely operating and ...

Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29.43/hr

Operator Location: Chicago, IL Division: Atlas Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries About the Role As an Operator at Zekelman Industries, you will play a key role in safely operating and ...

Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29.43/hr

Operator Location: Chicago, IL Division: Atlas Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries About the Role As an Operator at Zekelman Industries, you will play a key role in safely operating and ...

Operator

Melrose Park, IL

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. * Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations. Compensation DP ...

Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29.43/hr

Operator Location: Chicago, IL Division: Atlas Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries About the Role As an Operator at Zekelman Industries, you will play a key role in safely operating and ...

Operator

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Operator

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Operator

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Operator

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Operator

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

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Showing results 1-20

Operator Operator information

How much do operators make?

In Pennsylvania, operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, industry, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing, construction, or industrial settings.

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

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 are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by an Operator Operator during a standard shift?

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 jobs pay $700 a day?

In the field of operations, high-paying roles such as experienced crane operators, heavy equipment operators, or specialized industrial operators can earn around $700 per day, especially with overtime, certifications, and in high-demand environments. These positions often require technical skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership or licensing. Earnings vary based on location, experience, and industry sector.

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 jobs make $500,000 a year?

High-paying jobs that can reach $500,000 annually include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and certain technology executives. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and sometimes ownership stakes or performance-based bonuses.

What 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 specialized skills and certifications. Industrial machine operators in sectors like oil and gas or manufacturing can also earn high wages, especially with experience and overtime. Salary levels vary based on industry, location, and experience, but these roles generally offer the highest pay among operator jobs.

What are Operator Operators?

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Operator

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

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 settings to make necessary adjustments on equipment units affecting speeds of chemical reactions, quality, and yields.
   Start pumps and/or operate control valves to wash and rinse reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and vapors, to regulate the flow of oil, steam, air, and to add products to blending vessels.    Interpret chemicals reactions visible through sight glasses, on local instruments and gauges, or on HMI/PLC (Human Machine Interface/Programmable Logic Controller) monitors, and review laboratory test reports for process adjustments.

   Load and unload trailers, rail cars, totes, and drums.
   Perform material staging for the production areas, tote washing, receiving, and putting materials into storage locations, inventory consolidation.
   Operate valves to regulate flow of products or byproducts through agitator tanks, storage drums, or neutralizer tanks.
   Conduct equipment washouts as directed.
   Calculate material requirements or yields according to formulas.
   Monitor recording instruments, flow meters, panel lights, and other indicators, as well as listen for warning signals, in order to verify conformity of process conditions.
   Control or operate chemical processes or systems of machines, using panel boards, control boards, or semi-automatic equipment.
   Record operating data such as process conditions, test results, and instrument readings.
   Confer with technical and supervisory personnel to report or resolve conditions affecting safety, efficiency, and product quality or the environment.
   Draw samples of products, and conduct quality control tests in order to monitor processing, and to ensure that standards are met.
   Patrol work areas to ensure that solutions in tanks and troughs are not in danger of overflowing.
   Notify maintenance and other auxiliary personnel to correct equipment malfunctions, and to adjust power, steam, water, or air supplies.
   Perform regular product and raw material inventory. Gauge tank levels, using calibrated rods. 
   Defrost frozen valves, using steam hoses.
   Regulate or shut down equipment during emergency situations, as directed by supervisory personnel.
   Support all Environmental, Health, and Safety programs, policies, and regulations.
   General housekeeping duties as assigned.
   Participate and maintain compliance related activities including internal and external audits for applicable standards and certifications such as ISO 9001:2015, EFfCI, FSSC 22000, Kosher, Halal, RSPO, ISCC+ and others.

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 settings to make necessary adjustments on equipment units affecting speeds of chemical reactions, quality, and yields.
    Start pumps and/or operate control valves to wash and rinse reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and vapors, to regulate the flow of oil, steam, air, and to add products to blending vessels.
    Interpret chemicals reactions visible through sight glasses, on local instruments and gauges, or on HMI/PLC (Human Machine Interface/Programmable Logic Controller) monitors, and review laboratory test reports for process adjustments.
    Load and unload trailers, rail cars, totes, and drums.
    Perform material staging for the production areas, tote washing, receiving, and putting materials into storage locations, inventory consolidation.
    Operate valves to regulate flow of products or byproducts through agitator tanks, storage drums, or neutralizer tanks.
    Conduct equipment washouts as directed.
    Calculate material requirements or yields according to formulas.
    Monitor recording instruments, flow meters, panel lights, and other indicators, as well as listen for warning signals, in order to verify conformity of process conditions.
    Control or operate chemical processes or systems of machines, using panel boards, control boards, or semi-automatic equipment.
    Record operating data such as process conditions, test results, and instrument readings.
    Confer with technical and supervisory personnel to report or resolve conditions affecting safety, efficiency, and product quality or the environment.
    Draw samples of products, and conduct quality control tests in order to monitor processing, and to ensure that standards are met.
    Patrol work areas to ensure that solutions in tanks and troughs are not in danger of overflowing.
    Notify maintenance and other auxiliary personnel to correct equipment malfunctions, and to adjust power, steam, water, or air supplies.
    Perform regular product and raw material inventory. Gauge tank levels, using calibrated rods. 
    Defrost frozen valves, using steam hoses.
    Regulate or shut down equipment during emergency situations, as directed by supervisory personnel.
    Support all Environmental, Health, and Safety programs, policies, and regulations.
    General housekeeping duties as assigned.
    Participate and maintain compliance related activities including internal and external audits for applicable standards and certifications such as ISO 9001:2015, EFfCI, FSSC 22000, Kosher, Halal, RSPO, ISCC+ and others.

Requirements: 
    High School diploma or equivalent.
    3 years of operators' experience in a manufacturing environment with hazardous materials.
    Petro Chemical Certificate from Joliet Junior College (preferred).
    Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
    Detail oriented. 
    Work 12-hour rotational shifts, including some weekends and holiday work.

Requirements: 
   High School diploma or equivalent.    3 years of operators' experience in a manufacturing environment with hazardous materials.    Petro Chemical Certificate from Joliet Junior College (preferred)
   Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
   Detail oriented. 
   Work 12-hour rotational shifts, including some weekends and holiday work.

Pay range: $42.08 per hour

Union Benefits through Teamsters Local 179

Established in 1932, Stepan Company is a major manufacturer of basic and intermediate chemicals including surfactants, polymers, as well as specialty ingredients that go into consumer, household, and institutional products such as laundry detergents, shampoos, and surface cleaners. Stepan Company currently has 19 global manufacturing locations and over 2,400 employees. We have a strong record of growth. Our growth allows us to provide meaningful career opportunities and stability to our team members. We have big goals at Stepan and know every team member will be crucial to achieving our objectives. Regardless of function, we are looking for team members who bring with them a growth mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to thrive in an evolving environment.

We celebrate diversity at Stepan and are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.