ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Process Operator Internship Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

United States Steel Corporation

Student Employee

Gary, IN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

... standard operating procedures * Refine and maintain system software used to control process ... May roll into a year-round internship for the successful candidate Preferred Skills: In addition, a ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Intern - Engineering

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Company Description Veolia Group is a global leader in environmental services, operating across all ... Work may include understanding process requirements of the customer, performing engineering design ...

DURAVANT LLC

Continuous Improvement Mgr

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Interns gain hands-on exposure to real-world manufacturing operations while working alongside ... Drives cost reduction, improves processes, resolves production issues, and implements best ...

NVENIA

Continuous Improvement Mgr

Wood Dale, IL

$94K - $126K/yr

Interns gain handson exposure to realworld manufacturing operations while working alongside ... Drives cost reduction, improves processes, resolves production issues, and implements best ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Intern - Engineering

Plainfield, IL

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Company Description Veolia Group is a global leader in environmental services, operating across all ... Work may include understanding process requirements of the customer, performing engineering design ...

Duravant

Continuous Improvement Mgr

Wood Dale, IL

$94K - $126K/yr

Interns gain handson exposure to realworld manufacturing operations while working alongside ... Drives cost reduction, improves processes, resolves production issues, and implements best ...

Durex Industries

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL

$92K - $126K/yr

The senior ME may oversee the work of interns and technicians and will lead cross functional teams ... process flows and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and repeatability in ...

Spirax-Sarco Engineering

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Cary, IL

$92K - $126K/yr

The senior ME may oversee the work of interns and technicians and will lead cross functional teams ... process flows and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and repeatability in ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL

Work cross-functionally with process engineering, quality, production, and EHS teams to support ... Internship or project experience with automated production equipment * Basic exposure to PLCs, HMIs ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Controls Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on process optimization, quality enhancement ... Internship, co-op, academic project, or up to 2 years of experience in manufacturing, automation ...

EQUITRUST

Internal Audit Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36.30 - $49.91/hr

Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with ... Develop an understanding of business processes, risks, and controls while learning internal audit ...

DURAVANT LLC

Mechanical Assembly Tech

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18 - $25.50/hr

Interns gain hands-on exposure to real-world manufacturing operations while working alongside ... processes and individual performance. • Responsible for accurately reporting hours worked in MES.

Duravant

Mechanical Assembly Tech

Wood Dale, IL

$18 - $25.50/hr

Interns gain handson exposure to realworld manufacturing operations while working alongside ... processes and individual performance. • Responsible for accurately reporting hours worked in MES.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProcess Operator Internship JobsProcess Operator Internship Jobs in Chicago, IL

Process Operator Internship information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$22

$30

How much do process operator internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator internship in Chicago, IL is $22.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for interns in a Process Operator Internship?

As a Process Operator Intern, you will typically assist with monitoring, controlling, and troubleshooting industrial processes under the supervision of experienced operators. Interns often support routine inspections, collect and analyze samples, and help maintain equipment logs. This role offers valuable hands-on exposure to process control systems, safety protocols, and teamwork within manufacturing or production environments. Interns also gain insight into industry regulations and have opportunities to ask questions and learn from seasoned professionals, which can be a strong foundation for future full-time roles.

What is a Process Operator Internship?

A Process Operator Internship is a hands-on training program designed for students or recent graduates interested in learning how to operate and monitor industrial equipment and processes in manufacturing or production environments. Interns work under the supervision of experienced process operators and engineers to gain practical experience in areas such as equipment operation, safety procedures, quality control, and troubleshooting. The internship helps participants understand the workflow of production facilities and prepares them for entry-level roles in industries like chemical, oil and gas, food processing, or pharmaceuticals. It also provides valuable insights into workplace safety and process optimization.

What is the difference between Process Operator Internship vs Process Operator?

AspectProcess Operator InternshipProcess Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some technical training or courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, training-focused environment in manufacturing or processing plantsFull-time, operational environment with hands-on responsibilities in industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by manufacturing, chemical, or energy companies for training purposesFull-time roles in similar industries, responsible for operating equipment and ensuring safety

The Process Operator Internship is a training position designed to provide hands-on experience and industry exposure, often for students or entry-level candidates. In contrast, a Process Operator is a full-time role with operational responsibilities, requiring more experience and certifications. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a full Process Operator.

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

To thrive as a Process Operator Intern, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, attention to safety protocols, and often a background in engineering or technical studies. Familiarity with process control systems, safety equipment, and data logging software is typical, and some roles may require OSHA or industry-specific safety certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help interns quickly adapt and contribute to team objectives. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in an industrial setting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Process Operator Internship jobs near you
Student Employee

Student Employee

United States Steel Corporation

Gary, IN • On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

United States Steel rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

224th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Located in Northwest Indiana to include Gary and Portage, the Plant Process Control Intern position at United States Steel Corporation affords the opportunity to apply educational experiences to real world industrial applications. This assignment is for CURRENT STUDENTS looking for a paid internship that offers personal and professional development. We are looking for motivated self-starters that can work in a fast paced, data-driven environment. The successful candidate will be an analytical problem solver, have an extremely high level of customer focus and a passion for process improvement. Experiences are offered that encompass both existing system maintenance/enhancements, as well as ground up design, development and installation of new systems and processes, focused on productivity and quality improvements. Strong mentoring by seasoned Control Engineers ensures a mutually beneficial work experience.
Experience gained may include, but is not limited to the following:
  • Accurately design, develop and implement programs and systems to meet identified current and future business needs in accordance with current software development standards and standard operating procedures
  • Refine and maintain system software used to control process equipment and by modifying existing programs
  • Analyze and diagnose computer malfunctions and perform necessary corrective measures to efficiently return equipment and/or machinery to operational state that satisfies management objectives
  • Monitor and conduct necessary tests to assure digital systems are functioning properly
  • Collaborate with supervisors, operating personnel, and other maintenance personnel regarding system maintenance issues, as well as system enhancement requests
  • Perform specialized analysis and prepare written reports regarding test results and malfunctions encountered with equipment, offering recommendations for improvements
Requirements:
  • Candidates must be a full-time student pursuing a bachelor or master's degree majoring in one of the following: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering, or other IT/Engineering-related discipline
  • Must have programming experience
  • Candidates must be a current student
  • Completed their sophomore year by December 2022
  • Be in good academic standing
  • Be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship
  • Must attach a recent transcript and any other related information to your application
  • May roll into a year-round internship for the successful candidate
Preferred Skills:
In addition, a successful intern will have:
  • A strong record of team, project and/or people leadership in a work setting and/or extracurricular activities
  • A willingness to take initiative to understand the business
  • An aptitude for problem solving; strong writing and verbal communication skills
  • A strong commitment to excellence and to personal and professional growth
  • Must be resourceful, responsible, tenacious, curious, independent, confident and high energy
  • The ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
  • Leadership and strong decision-making skills
  • Ability to think and act both strategically and tactically
,

Since 1901, U. S. Steel has been a recognized leader in steel production. Today, as the first North American steel company to have declared a 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas emissions goal, we remain as innovative as ever, leading transformation across our industry while continuing to make products for everyday life - from industries as far ranging as automotive, construction, containers and packaging, appliances, and energy.
Underneath it all is our Culture of Caring, which shows up in our community partnerships, charitable contributions, company-sponsored employee volunteer initiatives, scholarship programs, leadership training, and much more. And of course, it takes shape in a steadfast commitment to safety first in our workplaces and respect for our employees, who are United by Steel.
We are honored to have earned accolades and awards from well-regarded organizations, including the following:

  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies 2022, '23, '24
  • Disability: IN's Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion 2021, '22, '23, '24
  • Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Equality 100 Award 2020, '21, '22, '23-24, '25
  • Military Times' Best for Vets: Employers 2023, '24


Conducting business with integrity and with the highest ethical values has underpinned U. S. Steel's success for over 100 years, and it remains critical to our company's success in the future. U. S. Steel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) according to job qualifications without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, genetics, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, disability status or status as a protected Veteran or any other legally protected group status. (California residents may visit www.ussteel.com/CANotice regarding collection of personal information and U. S. Steel's privacy practices.)

What United States Steel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply