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Permanent Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Thunderbird LLC.

Machine Operator - Plastics

Elgin, IL

$16 - $17/hr

Machine Operator - Plastics Position Overview The Machine Operators maintain the operation of injection molding equipment. This includes but is not limited to assembly of components, inspection of ...

Thunderbird Metals

Machine Operator - Plastics

Elgin, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Machine Operator - Plastics Position Overview The Machine Operators maintain the operation of injection molding equipment. This includes but is not limited to assembly of components, inspection of ...

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Machine Operator

Frankfort, IL

$20.50/hr

Machine Operator will be based at our manufacturing facility in Tinley Park, IL. As a Machine ... Experience in the plastics industry operating equipment preferred. Compensation Information: $18.00 ...

ITW Automotive

Machine Operator

Frankfort, IL

$18 - $20.50/hr

Machine Operator will be based at our manufacturing facility in Tinley Park, IL. As a Machine ... Experience in the plastics industry operating equipment preferred. Compensation Information: $18.00 ...

Novolex

Operator Associate I

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$24.40 - $25.68/hr

Ensures housekeeping in area(s) of responsibility is safe, clean and tidy We are looking for prior experience as an Extrusion Operator, Thermoforming Operator, and/or Plastics Machine Operator!

Logoplaste

Be Seen First

Manufacturing Machine Operator

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating Stretch Blow Molding or Injection Molding ... A previous work experience in the plastics industry would be considered an advantage but is not a ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Northbrook, IL

$20.53 - $21.03/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking dedicated Machine Operators to join a screw and fastener coating ... Apply protective coatings, colored paint, plastic caps, or nylon nuts to screws as required.

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All JobsPermanent Plastic Machine Operator JobsPermanent Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Permanent Plastic Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do permanent plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for permanent plastic machine operator in Chicago, IL is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a CNC operator earn?

A CNC operator's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in CNC programming and machine setup can earn higher wages and may receive additional benefits based on the industry and employer.

How much does a mold setter make?

A mold setter, involved in preparing and maintaining molds for manufacturing, typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience and location. Skilled mold setters with certifications and familiarity with machinery may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the difference between Permanent Plastic Machine Operator vs Plastic Molding Technician?

AspectPermanent Plastic Machine OperatorPlastic Molding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesManufacturing facilities, mold setup and maintenance
Industry UsagePlastic manufacturing, injection moldingPlastic molding, tooling, and equipment setup
Job FocusOperating plastic machines, quality controlPreparing molds, troubleshooting, and maintenance

The main difference between a Permanent Plastic Machine Operator and a Plastic Molding Technician lies in their focus. The operator primarily runs and monitors plastic production machines, while the technician handles mold setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work in manufacturing environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and technical complexity.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or chemical manufacturing, where operators may earn higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements. Senior or lead machine operators with advanced certifications and extensive experience tend to earn the most, especially when working with complex machinery like CNC or high-pressure systems.

Is plastic injection molding a good career?

Plastic injection molding is a stable career for machine operators, involving operating and maintaining injection molding machines to produce plastic parts. It requires technical skills, attention to safety, and often involves working in manufacturing environments with shift schedules. Job prospects are generally steady due to ongoing demand in various industries such as automotive, consumer goods, and medical devices.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Permanent Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Permanent Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Permanent Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Permanent Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Permanent Plastic Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Permanent Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,967 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Machine Operator - Plastics

Thunderbird LLC.

Elgin, IL

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Machine Operator - Plastics Position Overview
The Machine Operators maintain the operation of injection molding equipment. This includes but is not limited to assembly of components, inspection of parts, and packing proper quantities to customer specified requirements.
Machine Operator - Plastics Essential Functions
  • Set up, operate, and monitor machinery according to provided guidelines and specifications.
  • Inspect for defects, reporting any findings to appropriate personnel.
  • Follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Packing.
  • Maintaining clean and safe workspace.
Machine Operator - Plastics Required Experience
  • Ability to learn other line jobs to serve as utility person for breaks and lunch.
  • Ability to work overtime as required.
  • Experience with or ability to do intricate hand assembly on fast paced assembly line.
  • Possess good eye-hand coordination for assembly purposes.
Machine Operator - Plastics Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • Prolonged standing as required during press and assembly operations.
  • Ability to reach into injection-molding press with both hands to remove product required.
  • Ability to stoop, bend, twist or turn to move product from press and/or assembly areas to other plant locations required.
  • Required lifting and/or moving up to 30 pounds on a repetitive basis.
  • Ability to read applicable instructions.
  • The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts.
Company Overview
At Thunderbird, the collaborative relationship with our parent and partner companies allows us to better serve our customers – now and in the future. The Thunderbird family of American Manufacturing companies is driven by a mission to provide superior products and services, from prototype to delivery. Our dedicated leadership team's enduring vision is to hold and grow our companies to meet the higher needs of our global customers. We are guided by the unified pursuit of excellence, teamwork, and innovation. Thunderbird enables people to grow, companies to soar, and customers to succeed.
Benefits
  • 401(k) with matching program.
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • 9 Paid Holidays
Thunderbird is a drug and smoke free work environment and promotes safe work conditions. #

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