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Process Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Hourly Process Tech will guide the overall team's mission in productivity, safety, quality, operations, continuous improvement and team effectiveness. Must have extensive background in ...

Extrusion Process Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$38.24 - $49.17/hr

The Hourly Process Tech will guide the overall team's mission in productivity, safety, quality, operations, continuous improvement and team effectiveness. Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

The Hourly Process Tech will guide the overall team's mission in productivity, safety, quality, operations, continuous improvement and team effectiveness. Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

The Hourly Process Tech will guide the overall team's mission in productivity, safety, quality, operations, continuous improvement and team effectiveness. Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

... technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world ... As a Process Operator, you will: * Meet behavior expectations in the areas ofEnvironmental Health ...

An Information Technology (IT) Process Manager focuses on optimizing and improving IT-related processes within an organization. This position will own and manage processes related to Demand ...

Understanding the manufacturing process, technologies, techniques, and the product. * Support creation and implementation of engineering change orders (ECOs). * Develop, implement, and take ownership ...

Process Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Understanding the manufacturing process, technologies, techniques, and the product. * Support creation and implementation of engineering change orders (ECOs). * Develop, implement, and take ownership ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

This role is a hands-on technical authority who will be integral to process technology innovation as well as troubleshooting manufacturing issues, optimizing process capabilities and product quality ...

Senior Dairy Processing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

This role is a hands-on technical authority who will be integral to process technology innovation as well as troubleshooting manufacturing issues, optimizing process capabilities and product quality ...

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Showing results 1-20

Process Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$23

$34

How much do process tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for process tech in Illinois is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Process Technician, you need a solid understanding of process operations, mechanical aptitude, and typically a technical associate's degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with process control systems, safety protocols, and tools such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of manufacturing or production processes.

What is a Process Tech?

A Process Tech, short for Process Technician, is a professional who monitors and manages the equipment and systems used in manufacturing or industrial production environments. They ensure that processes run efficiently, safely, and within quality standards by troubleshooting issues, performing routine maintenance, and collecting data for process improvements. Process Technicians often work in industries such as chemical manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Their role is critical for minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

For a Process Tech or similar manufacturing roles, earning $10,000 a month typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-paying industries such as petrochemical or pharmaceutical manufacturing. These roles often involve shift work, technical knowledge, and sometimes certifications, but high salaries without a degree are rare and usually depend on expertise and responsibility level.

What does a process technician do?

A process technician monitors and operates manufacturing equipment to ensure production runs smoothly and efficiently. They troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and follow safety protocols, often using control systems and documentation to maintain quality standards. The role typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certifications in process technology or related fields.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Process technicians may see some automation and AI integration reduce the number of manual roles in manufacturing and processing industries by 2030. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks are increasingly being replaced by machines, but process techs with skills in troubleshooting, maintenance, and operating advanced control systems will still be needed. Overall, roles heavily reliant on manual labor are most at risk of decline, while technical and supervisory positions are expected to evolve rather than disappear.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs for process technicians are uncommon, as most earn significantly less daily. However, experienced process engineers or specialists working in highly specialized industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or chemical manufacturing can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day through overtime, bonuses, or contract work. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience in the field.

What are some common challenges Process Technicians face when troubleshooting equipment issues, and how are these typically addressed?

Process Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing equipment malfunctions, managing unexpected process deviations, and maintaining production efficiency while ensuring safety standards. These issues are typically addressed by following standardized troubleshooting procedures, collaborating closely with maintenance and engineering teams, and utilizing monitoring systems to quickly identify the root cause of problems. Continuous training and hands-on experience are essential for Process Technicians to effectively navigate these challenges and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Process Tech vs Chemical Operator?

AspectProcess TechChemical Operator
Required CertificationsOften requires technical certifications or associate degrees in process technology or related fieldsTypically requires chemical processing certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, refineries, or chemical processing facilitiesChemical plants, refineries, or manufacturing environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in chemical, oil & gas, and manufacturing industriesPrimarily found in chemical manufacturing and processing industries

Process Techs and Chemical Operators work closely in chemical processing environments, but Process Techs often have more technical training and focus on monitoring and maintaining equipment, while Chemical Operators handle the day-to-day operation of chemical processes. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe and efficient plant operations.

Infographic showing various Process Tech job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,729 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Thermoforming - Process Technician

Thermoforming - Process Technician

Novolex

Bridgeview, IL • On-site

$38.81 - $49.89/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 28 days ago


Novolex rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd 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

Do you have experience working in Automation, Extrusion Operator, Thermoforming Operator, and/or Plastics Machine Operator???  If so WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!!

Thermoforming Process Technician, HIRING IMMEDIATELY, Bridgeview IL

Compensation: Pay Range is $38.81 to $49.89 - paid weekly (additional $1 per hour as shift differential)

Process Technician Night Shifts 7PM - 7AM - 2-2-3 Schedule

Position Responsibilities:

The Hourly Process Tech will guide the overall team's mission in productivity, safety, quality, operations, continuous improvement and team effectiveness. Must have extensive background in Thermoforming and Extrusion.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assist with performing changeovers with minimal downtime
  • Ensure all products are running at standard production rate for assigned shift
  • Update, review and provide recommendations to plant Process Engineer for process sheet updates
  • Develop, implement and execute programs to improve overall product quality and line efficiencies.
  • Ability to operate and troubleshoot processes and equipment at an elevated level to resolve complex issues with supporting plant maintenance, automation, and tooling teams

Technical Knowledge:

  • Process expert in the areas of sheet extrusion, forming and trimming of thermoformed products.  
  • Good understanding of mechanical and electrical principles and applications.
  • Ability to operate thermoforming and extrusion equipment.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of company specific product, material and/or production technological methods and procedures, and capabilities of machines and equipment in manufacturing facilities.
  • Demonstrates advanced mechanical aptitude and abilities.
  • Demonstrates ability to troubleshoot and efficiently identify appropriate course of action through leverage problem solving activities.

Safety:

  • Demonstrated ability to comply with all Company policies and procedures and to uphold, support and exemplify the safety programs and standards.

Required Qualifications:

  • Minimum 5 years relevant experience (or similar combination of education and experience).
  • Experience in plastics processing, including forming and extrusion required
  • Experience working with machinery
  • Understanding of tooling, machining, material flow practices for extrusion and thermoforming
  • Strong interpersonal skills to be able to train, communicate, and lead effectively
  • Ability to work a 12 hours COP shift

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Two or four year technical degree or certification
  • Project team coordinator experience
  • Experience with FEA (finite element analysis) and quality gauges to support a zero part defect environment.

#INDDist

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

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