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

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$12

$18

$24

How much do poly machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for poly 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.

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

To thrive as a Poly Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring prior manufacturing experience. Familiarity with poly extrusion machines, quality control instruments, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators efficiently address issues and maintain production flow. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring product quality, minimizing downtime, and maintaining a safe, efficient manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Poly Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Poly Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine malfunctions, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues typically involves regular equipment checks, prompt troubleshooting, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Staying organized and following safety protocols are also crucial to minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations. Continuous learning and staying updated on new machine technologies can further help operators overcome these challenges.

What does a Poly Machine Operator do?

A Poly Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery used in the production of polyethylene (poly) products, such as plastic films, bags, or sheets. Their duties include setting up machines, monitoring production quality, troubleshooting issues, making adjustments to equipment, and ensuring safety standards are met. They often work in manufacturing or packaging facilities and may be required to perform routine maintenance on the machines. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What is the difference between Poly Machine Operator vs Extrusion Machine Operator?

AspectPoly Machine OperatorExtrusion Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing plants, factoriesPlastic, rubber, or metal manufacturing facilities
Industry UsagePlastic film, sheet, or container productionPlastic or rubber extrusion processes
Job FocusOperating and maintaining poly film or sheet machinesOperating extrusion equipment for various materials

The Poly Machine Operator and Extrusion Machine Operator roles share similar credentials and work environments, often within plastic manufacturing industries. The main difference lies in the specific materials and processes they handle: Poly Machine Operators focus on poly film and sheet production, while Extrusion Machine Operators work with a broader range of extruded materials like plastics and rubber. Both roles require technical skills and safety awareness, but their specific applications vary based on the product being manufactured.

What are popular job titles related to Poly Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Poly Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Poly Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Poly Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Poly Machine Operator jobs near you

Delta Operator (12 Hour -Night shift)

RR Donnelley

Saint Charles, IL

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Company Description

RRD is a leading global provider of marketing, packaging, print, and supply chain solutions that elevate engagement across the complete customer journey. The company offers the industry’s most trusted portfolio of creative execution and world-wide business process consulting, with services designed to lower environmental impact. With 22,000 clients, including 93% of the Fortune 100, and 32,000 employees across 28 countries, RRD brings the expertise, execution, and scale designed to transform customer touchpoints into meaningful moments of impact.

Job Description

Shifts:  7pm - 7am/ 3 days on 4 days off rotating 

Responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining specialized machinery that embeds Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) inlays into substrates in order to create an RFID label. This role involves ensuring the precise placement, encoding, and functionality of RFID components at high speeds while maintaining quality standards in a production environment. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Machine Operation & Setup: Set up, adjust, and operate RFID insertion and label coding equipment, ensuring quality and customer requirements are met..
  • Production Monitoring: Monitor machinery to ensure proper RFID tag insertion and encoding according to specifications, and ensure production goals are met.
  • Quality Control: Perform in-process checks to verify the accuracy and functionality of RFID tags.
  • Troubleshooting: Identify, troubleshoot, and correct mechanical or technical issues with equipment, such as jamming or misalignment.
  • Material Handling: Load materials such as adhesive labels, poly films, and RFID inlays into the machine.
  • Documentation: Record production data, including material usage, labor, and downtime, in company systems.
  • Safety & Maintenance: Adhere to all safety policies and procedures. Maintain a clean work area, and perform routine preventative maintenance on equipment. 
  • Assist:  Performs other related duties and participates in special projects as assigned.
  • Compliance:  It is the responsibility of all employees to follow the requirements of their documented process as defined in the ISO Quality Manual and to comply with all RRD policies.
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications

  • Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Experience: 1–3+ years of experience in printing, direct mail, or manufacturing environments, particularly with RFID converting, encoding, or laminating.
  • Technical Skills: Ability to work with roll-to-roll or sheet-fed equipment, understanding of paper/film handling, and ability to read job tickets.
  • Attention to Detail: High level of precision to ensure accurate tag placement and encoding.
  • Physical Stamina: Occasionally required to kneel, crouch, stoop or crawl as well as lifting/moving from 50-70 pounds and pushing or pulling up to 200 pounds.
  • Computer Skills: Proficient in using PCs to manage and monitor jobs. 

  • Working Conditions & Requirements

  • Environment: Fast-paced production or manufacturing setting.
  • Schedule: May require flexibility for work times, including overtime.
  • Physical Demands: Regular standing, bending, and lifting of materials.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

The salary range for this role at the noted RRD location is $26.26 - $35.05 / hour. Starting pay decisions are determined based on multiple factors including but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, skills, experience, certifications, proficiency, performance, shift, location, and other business needs. Typically, roles follow step progressions to a target rate or set increments over time. Depending on the role, in addition to the hourly rate of pay, the total compensation package may also include overtime, shift differential, call-in, and/or stand-by pay. RRD’s benefit offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus parental leave, adoption assistance, tuition assistance and employer/partner discounts.

RRD is an EEO/AA including Vets and Disabled Employer

All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of both a pre-employment background and drug screen.

RRD is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans