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Paper Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Grant Park, IL · On-site

$19.37/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour Available ...

Machine Operator

Grant Park, IL · On-site

$19.37/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour Available ...

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour Available ...

Machine Operator

Grant Park, IL · On-site

$19.37/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour Available ...

Assistant Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.57 - $26.97/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ...

Assistant Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.57 - $26.97/hr

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ...

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ...

... resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and ... Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ...

Be Seen First

Production Operator

Alsip, IL · On-site

$20.21/hr

Machine Operator-PM SHIFT Production/Set Up Operator/Spinner Operator This position is responsible for operating bag making machines in order to safely produce high quality paper bags in accordance ...

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Paper Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do paper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for paper machine operator in Chicago, IL is $18.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Paper Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical operations, troubleshooting, and production processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, computerized control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help operators manage workflow and respond quickly to issues. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining product quality, minimizing downtime, and ensuring a safe and efficient manufacturing environment.

What are the most common challenges faced by Paper Machine Operators on the job?

Paper Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent machine performance, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring product quality standards are met. The fast-paced environment requires quick decision-making and attention to detail, especially when responding to unexpected issues like paper breaks or mechanical faults. Operators must also coordinate closely with maintenance crews and quality control teams to minimize downtime and keep production running smoothly.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or chemical manufacturing, where operators may earn higher wages due to the complexity and hazards involved. Senior or lead machine operators with advanced certifications and extensive experience tend to earn the most, with some roles offering six-figure salaries. Skills in troubleshooting, maintenance, and safety compliance can also contribute to higher pay levels.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Paper Machine Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their wages are usually hourly or salary-based and depend on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2000 daily often include specialized roles such as senior executives, certain medical specialists, or highly skilled trades in industries like oil and gas, finance, or technology, often requiring advanced certifications or extensive experience.

How much do paper machine operators make?

Paper machine operators typically earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in managing large equipment can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and shift differentials.

What does a paper machine operator do?

A paper machine operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the machinery used to produce paper products. They set up, operate, and maintain paper machines, ensuring quality and safety standards are met. This role often requires knowledge of mechanical systems and the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues.

What is the difference between Paper Machine Operator vs Paper Mill Technician?

AspectPaper Machine OperatorPaper Mill Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor of paper mills, operating machineryMaintenance and repair areas within paper mills, supporting machinery
Industry UsagePrimarily in paper manufacturing plantsInvolved in maintaining and troubleshooting paper production equipment

The Paper Machine Operator focuses on running and monitoring paper production machines, ensuring quality and efficiency. In contrast, the Paper Mill Technician primarily handles maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of equipment. Both roles are essential in paper manufacturing, often working closely to ensure smooth operations.

What are Paper Machine Operators?

Paper Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for running and maintaining machines that produce paper from raw materials like wood pulp. They monitor machine settings, inspect finished paper for quality, and adjust equipment as needed to ensure efficient operation. Their duties also include troubleshooting mechanical problems and performing routine maintenance. Paper Machine Operators play a vital role in the manufacturing process, ensuring that paper products meet industry standards and customer requirements.
What job categories do people searching Paper Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Paper Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Paper Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,175 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Novolex

Grant Park, IL • On-site

$19.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 11 days ago


Novolex rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 110 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Company Overview

Why Choose Us?

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.

Our Sustainability Commitment

The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.

Job Description

Machine Operator|Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY

Starting Pay Rate

  • $19.37 per hour 

Available Shifts: 

  • Monday-Friday  7:00 am -   3:00 pm
  • Monday-Friday  3:00 pm - 11:00 pm 

TEXT TO APPLY NUMBER:

  • 928-668-6539 (928-NOVOLEX)
Job Overview: This position reports to the Shift Supervisor.  The position is responsible for monitoring and assisting in the operation and maintenance of production lines to ensure the efficient and continuous flow of product through the line.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • To set up and change over plastic rolls on each line in a manner that ensures continuous operation and minimal down time.
  • Diagnose machine problems
  • Make minor repairs or adjustments to machine and/or process.
  • Notify supervisor and mechanic if major problems result in excessive scrap and/or downtime.
  • Keep accurate shift production records.
  • Maintain clean and safe work area.
  • Assist Packers as needed.
  • Obtain skills to move through the Operator Skills Development.
  • Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required or assigned.
  • QC/A and Traceability Management - ensure date codes for all items are verified hourly during required QC audits, verify First Part Approval Work Order (WO) numbers are correct on carton labels.
  • Support plant product food safety management programs, initiatives, and objectives.

Qualifications:

  • Lock out/tag out
  • Knowledge of machine operation or mechanical skills
  • Reading, writing, and computation skills normally acquired through the completion of high school or GED program
Physical Demands:
  • Manual dexterity, lifting up to 50 pounds frequently, ability to stand for extended periods of time (length of shift), ability to withstand seasonal temperature extremes and frequent bending, pushing and reaching.
Company BenefitsWhat You'll Get From UsBenefits

With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.

Community Engagement

At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.

Training and Development

We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through MyLearning. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union), and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.

Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact myHRservices@novolex.com.

Formerly Pactiv Evergreen

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Novolex employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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