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Panel Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Panel Builder

Elgin, IL · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Read electrical and control schematics and assemble and wire panels to specification for PLC controls, operator consoles, variable speed drives, motor controls, and/or pneumatic controls * Inspect ...

Lead Panel Builder

Elgin, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Read electrical and control schematics and assemble and wire panels to specification for PLC controls, operator consoles, variable speed drives, motor controls, and/or pneumatic controls * Inspect ...

Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Monitor recording instruments, flow meters, panel lights, and other indicators, as well as listen ... Record operating data such as process conditions, test results, and instrument readings. Confer ...

Dry End Stacker Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Use the Stacker control panel to run the Stacker and to perform machine set up, start up, operation ... Equivalent machine operating experience or experience multi-tasking in a fast-paced work ...

Run Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.74/hr

... Helper (Run Operator) Position will monitor 1 machine at a time as necessary. MAJOR ... panels 8. Maintain equipment at run rate. 9. Clean glue tips 10. Perform SKU changeover. 11.

Run Operator

Chicago, IL

$16.75 - $20/hr

... Helper (Run Operator) Position will monitor 1 machine at a time as necessary. MAJOR ... panels 8. Maintain equipment at run rate. 9. Clean glue tips 10. Perform SKU changeover. 11.

... solar panels, electronics, and batteries. Oxbow's continued success and leadership within the ... Utility Operators are responsible for operating tractor trailers and/or front-end loaders to ...

Program and monitor computerized operating panel. Calculate and determine proper core size, roll ... diameters, required footage and perforation. * May operate packaging equipment using poly or paper ...

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$32 - $37.43/hr

... solar panels, electronics, and batteries. Oxbow's continued success and leadership within the ... Utility Operators are responsible for operating tractor trailers and/or front-end loaders to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Panel Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do panel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for panel operator in Chicago, IL is $16.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Panel Operator vs Control Room Operator?

AspectPanel OperatorControl Room Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or training in electrical or mechanical systemsOften requires similar technical certifications, with additional emphasis on monitoring and control systems
Work EnvironmentWorks directly at control panels, machinery, or equipment in industrial settingsWorks in control rooms overseeing multiple systems or processes
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, power plants, and processing facilitiesCommon in power generation, manufacturing, and utilities

Both roles involve monitoring and controlling industrial processes, but Panel Operators typically work directly at control panels or equipment, while Control Room Operators oversee multiple systems from a centralized location. The choice depends on the specific industry and job scope.

What is the role of a panel operator?

A panel operator monitors and controls machinery and equipment in industrial settings, such as power plants or manufacturing facilities, using control panels and instrumentation. They ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often working with automation systems and following safety protocols. Attention to detail and technical skills are essential for troubleshooting and maintaining equipment.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Panel Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Panel Operator job openings:

Utility Operator - 1st Shift (Panel Saw)

The Gund Company

Cedar Lake, IN • On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


The Gund Company rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Gund Company has an immediate opening for a full-time Utility Operator to join our team!
Shift: First (7:00am - 3:30pm, M-F)
Hourly Wage: $22+ per hour based on experience
Bonus: $1,000 at 30 days of employment
Plant/Work Location: 10501-3 W. 133rd Avenue, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
About The Gund Company
The Gund Company, a leader in engineered material solutions, specializes in customized electrical insulation products. With 16 global facilities, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality products and excellent customer service. We are currently seeking a Utility Operator to join our team.
Utility Operator Job Summary
As a Utility Operator, you will play a key role in supporting production operations, ensuring that parts are fabricated to meet work order specifications and customer requirements. This includes operating and setting up various production machinery, conducting manual assembly tasks, and adhering to safety and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities Utility Operator
  • Operate production equipment such as panel saws and sanders.
  • Perform manual assembly and fabrication tasks using hand tools and machines, as necessary.
  • Inspect products to ensure they meet company quality, quantity, and customer standards.
  • Assist with troubleshooting and performing routine maintenance on production machinery as needed.

Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED with prior hands on, vocational or job-related course work/training, or any similar combination of education and experience.
  • Strong basic math skills and the ability to use measuring tools (tape measures, calipers, micrometers, etc.).
  • Flexibility to work overtime and adjust to emergency production needs.

Preferred:
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with reading blueprints and technical drawings.

Work Environment Utility Operator
  • This role is performed in a non-climate-controlled manufacturing environment with exposure to dust.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.
  • The position may involve repetitive tasks and manual labor, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods of time.

Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
  • Comprehensive benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability).
  • 401(k) plan with a 50% employer match.
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
  • Ongoing training and development programs.

Join a company that values your contribution and invests in your future. Apply today to start your career with The Gund Company!
Careers: Why Work at Gund The Gund Company
Reasonable accommodation(s) may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the Utility Operator position.
EEO Statement: It is the policy of The Gund Company to recruit, hire, train, and promote employees without discrimination.
Salary Description
$21 - $24 an hour

What The Gund Company employees say

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