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Planer Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

JM Industries, LLC

Be Seen First

CNC Machinist

Chicago Heights, IL · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

CNC Machinist Produces machined parts by programming, setting up, and operating a Computer ... reference planes, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters, interpreting geometric ...

WABTEC

CNC Machine Set-up Operator I

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Produces machined parts by setting up, and operating computer numerical control (CNC) machines ... reference planes, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters, interpreting geometric ...

Wabtec

CNC Machine Set-up Operator I

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Produces machined parts by setting up, and operating computer numerical control (CNC) machines ... reference planes, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters, interpreting geometric ...

Trinity Health

Surgical Assistant

Northlake, IL · On-site

$32.25 - $54.35/hr

Clinical skills performed will include positioning the patient, preparing the skin and providing visualization of the operative site. Assists with hemostasis, closure of body planes and selection and ...

New

Wabtec

CNC Machine Set-up & Operator II

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Produces machined parts by setting up, and operating computer numerical control (CNC) machines ... reference planes, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters, interpreting geometric ...

Wabtec

CNC Machine Set-up & Operator II

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Produces machined parts by setting up, and operating computer numerical control (CNC) machines ... reference planes, locations of surfaces, and machining parameters, interpreting geometric ...

Trinity Health

Surgical Assistant

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$32.25 - $54.35/hr

Clinical skills performed will include positioning the patient, preparing the skin and providing visualization of the operative site. Assists with hemostasis, closure of body planes and selection and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPlaner Operator JobsPlaner Operator Jobs in Illinois

Planer Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$18

$21

$24

How much do planer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for planer operator in Illinois is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a planer operator?

Planer Operators are skilled workers who operate industrial planing machines to smooth, shape, and finish wood or metal surfaces. Their main responsibilities include setting up and maintaining the planer, monitoring the machine during operation, and ensuring the final product meets specific size and quality standards. They may also be responsible for adjusting machine settings, performing regular maintenance, and following safety protocols. Planer Operators often work in manufacturing, woodworking, or metalworking environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a planer operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Planer Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with woodworking or metalworking machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with planer machines, safety protocols, and basic measurement tools like calipers and micrometers is typically required. Reliability, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators excel in maintaining quality and addressing production issues. These skills ensure safe operation, high-quality output, and efficiency in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by planer operators, and how can they be addressed?

Planer Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent machine calibration, managing wood defects, and ensuring safety during high-speed operations. Addressing these issues typically involves regular equipment inspections, prompt maintenance, and following strict safety protocols. Additionally, effective communication with team members and supervisors helps in quickly resolving production issues and maintaining workflow efficiency. Staying proactive and detail-oriented can significantly reduce downtime and improve overall product quality.

What is the difference between Planer Operator vs Millwright?

AspectPlaner OperatorMillwright
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machinery operationHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machinery installation and maintenance
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, woodworking shopsConstruction sites, factories, industrial facilities
Industry UsageWoodworking, metalworking, manufacturingManufacturing, industrial maintenance, construction
Job FocusOperating planers and similar machinery to shape materialsInstalling, repairing, and maintaining machinery and equipment

While both roles work in industrial settings and require technical skills, a Planer Operator primarily focuses on operating machinery like planers to shape materials, whereas a Millwright specializes in installing, maintaining, and repairing machinery. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Planer Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Planer Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Planer Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Planer Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Planer Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Planer Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Planer Operator jobs in IL?

For Planer Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Planer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planer Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,408 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

2nd Shift - CNC BNE Lathe Operator - 4-Day Work Week (4x10) 4:00P - 2:30A

Helios Hydraulics America

Buffalo Grove, IL • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain CNC lathe machines to produce parts according to blueprint specifications.

  • Inspect parts using precision measuring tools and record production data.

  • Follow safety protocols and ensure workspace cleanliness.

Job description

Incentives:

Shift Differential: 10%

401K: 100% Matching 6%

Tuition Reimbursement: 100% of In-State Accredited Approved Program

Health, Dental, and Vision: Extremely affordable and market leading health benefits.

ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan): 15% discount on purchased stock at the lowest price of the quarter.

Job Summary: 

The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Lathe Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining CNC single turret/dual turret, twin spindle lathes to produce high quality parts according to blueprint specifications. This position requires a strong attention to detail, ability to read and interpret drawings, understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), with a commitment to Safety and Precision in a Manufacturing environment. 

Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Operate single turret/dual turret, twin spindle CNC Lathe Machines with Live Tooling capabilities, attached with 6’ bar feeders 

  • Inspect parts using precision measuring tools (e.g., Micrometers, Pin gages, bore gages, Thread gages, Plug gages, Drop Indicators, Height gages, Comparators) 

  • As required, ability to manual deburr parts during the machining process 

  • Ability to make offsets to tooling under Fanuc controls 

  • Identify and resolve machining issues such as tool wear to maintain the customer required dimensions 

  • Accurately record production data, including quantities and quality inspections 

  • Follow all safety protocols and ensure the workspace is cleaned and organized 

Required Skills/Abilities:  

  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints 

  • Understanding of GD&T 

  • Familiarity with CNC lathes and measuring equipment 

  • Strong focus on accuracy and quality 

  • Strong communication skills. 

  • Ability to hold tolerances as tight as +/-.0002 

Education and Experience: 

  • High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate) 

  • Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, NIMS, CNC Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades) 

  • At least 3 years of CNC Operation  

  • Experience on Nakamura-Tome/Miyano Lathes is a plus, but not required 

Physical Requirements: 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands and fingers, feel/reach with hands/arms, talk, and hear. 

The employee is occasionally required to bend and stop, push and pull, reach above shoulder level, kneel, squat, or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job to include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Understanding work order, blueprints, control plans, materials, specifications, drawings, reference planes, locations of surfaces, critical surfaces/edges, and machining parameters while interpreting geometric dimension and tolerances (GD&T)
  • Understanding work instructions ad zero/reference points
  • Understanding of basic math, geometry, and trigonometry
  • Positive and proactive attitude toward completing work orders
  • Willingness to learn and grow through Sun Hydraulics
  • Meeting commitments and obligations

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma/GED required
  • Technical college degree preferred
  • 2+ years' experience using production machinery
  • Experience working with a Mazak Star/Integrex or Swiss Lathes a plus

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of standing
  • Prolonged period of sitting
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds at times

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