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Professional Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Matthews Professional Employment

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Press Brake Operator

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Press Brake Operator This role is responsible for setting up and operating press brake equipment to ... Professional Employment, Inc., please express your interest in this position to your consultant.

Invited

Tennis Professional

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are the largest owner and operator of private clubs nationwide, with 130+ country clubs, city ... Interact professionally with members and guests, providing assistance with changes and ...

ClubCorp

Tennis Professional

Riverwoods, IL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Since its inception in 1957, Invited has operated with the central purpose of building ... Job Summary The Tennis Professional is responsible for delivering an exceptional tennis experience ...

Aquent

Procurement Professional

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$58.96 - $65.52/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... professional. This enterprise is at the forefront of shaping future operational landscapes ... This is your chance to make a tangible impact, operating independently while coordinating ...

Invited Clubs

Tennis Professional

Riverwoods, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are the largest owner and operator of private clubs nationwide, with 130+ country clubs, city ... Job Summary The Tennis Professional is responsible for delivering an exceptional tennis experience ...

Village of Carol Stream

Code Professional

Carol Stream, IL

$80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

A valid Illinois Vehicle Operator's License. Starting salary for this position is $69,283. Additional compensation to a maximum of $80,056 for experienced Code Professional candidates hired at the II ...

Village of Carol Stream

Code Professional

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

A valid Illinois Vehicle Operator's License. Starting salary for this position is $69,283. Additional compensation to a maximum of $80,056 for experienced Code Professional candidates hired at the II ...

syncreon

Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... With a dedicated, diverse and professional team of more than 111,000 employees from 159 ...

NAL Syncreon

Operator

Melrose Park, IL

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... With a dedicated, diverse and professional team of more than 111,000 employees from 159 ...

DP World

Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... With a dedicated, diverse and professional team of more than 111,000 employees from 159 ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Orland Park, IL

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Forklift Operator Orland Park, IL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick ... Provide courteous and professional service to customers * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe ...

Burgess Norton Mfg Co

Lapper Operator

Geneva, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE Amsted Automotive - Piston Pin Facility is looking for a full time Lapper Operator ... Be responsible and accountable for the professional use of assigned work periods, machinery ...

Burgess Norton Mfg Co

Lapper Operator

Geneva, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE Amsted Automotive - Piston Pin Facility is looking for a full time Lapper Operator ... Be responsible and accountable for the professional use of assigned work periods, machinery ...

Burgess Norton Mfg Co

Lapper Operator

Geneva, IL

$17 - $22.50/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE Amsted Automotive - Piston Pin Facility is looking for a full time Lapper Operator ... Be responsible and accountable for the professional use of assigned work periods, machinery ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Forklift Operator

Orland Park, IL

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Forklift Operator Orland Park, IL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick ... Provide courteous and professional service to customers * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe ...

NorthShore

Hospital Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.38 - $26.65/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position: Hospital Operator * Location: SWH Swedish Hospital Chicago * Full Time/Part Time ... Professionally and courteously answering all incoming calls, routing them to the appropriate ...

General Shale Brick

Forklift Operator

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator Orland Park, IL General Shale, Inc., the nation's leading manufacturer of brick ... Provide courteous and professional service to customers * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe ...

Amsted Automotive Group

Lapper Operator

Geneva, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

ABOUT THE ROLE Amsted Automotive - Piston Pin Facility is looking for a full time Lapper Operator ... Be responsible and accountable for the professional use of assigned work periods, machinery ...

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All JobsProfessional Operator JobsProfessional Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Professional Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do professional operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional operator in Chicago, IL is $20.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional operator?

Professional Operators are skilled individuals responsible for controlling and monitoring machinery, equipment, or complex systems in industries such as manufacturing, transportation, or utilities. Their duties often include ensuring operational safety, maintaining equipment efficiency, and troubleshooting problems as they arise. Professional Operators must adhere to strict protocols and may be required to document procedures, perform routine maintenance, and collaborate with other team members to ensure smooth operations. The specific responsibilities can vary greatly depending on the industry and the type of equipment or systems involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional operator?

To thrive as a Professional Operator, you need a solid understanding of equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, computerized control systems, and, in some cases, licenses such as a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set standout operators apart. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations, reducing risks and maximizing productivity in technical environments.

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

Professional Operators often manage complex machinery or systems and must maintain high levels of attention to detail to ensure safety and efficiency. Common challenges include adapting to rapidly changing technologies, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and working in shift-based or high-pressure environments. To address these challenges, operators benefit from continuous training, clear communication with team members, and proactive maintenance practices. Building strong problem-solving skills and staying updated with industry advancements can also aid in overcoming day-to-day obstacles.

What is the difference between Professional Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectProfessional OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsOften requires specialized certifications or licenses depending on industryTypically requires a standard operating license or certification
Work EnvironmentCan include industrial sites, construction, manufacturing, or specialized facilitiesPrimarily construction sites, factories, or outdoor work areas
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including manufacturing, construction, and energyCommonly used in construction, mining, and logistics

The main difference between a Professional Operator and an Equipment Operator lies in the level of certification and scope of work. Professional Operators often have specialized training and certifications, working in diverse industrial environments. Equipment Operators typically focus on operating specific machinery, mainly in construction or manufacturing settings. Both roles are essential, but Professional Operators usually require broader skills and credentials.

Which professional operator job pays the most?

Among professional operator roles, crane operators and heavy equipment operators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $60,000 annually, especially with specialized certifications and experience. Roles in industrial, construction, or mining environments typically offer higher pay due to the technical skills and safety requirements involved.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Professional Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Professional Operator job openings:

Professional Operator jobs near you

Certified Operator Trainee (CPKC)

Sperry Rail, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Sperry Rail Service rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

370th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

About Sperry:
Sperry Rail is on a mission-critical journey to revolutionize the Rail Flaw Detection industry. Through the continuous development of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and AI-assisted analysis, we are transforming railway safety worldwide. Our global engineering teams work collaboratively to develop step-change technologies that define Sperry as the unparalleled market leader.
For nearly a century, we have repeatedly modernized and improved rail diagnostics through our relentless pursuit of improvement. Determined is an understatement. We are obsessed with advancing science and raising the bar on what's possible with our ever-improving suite of products and service offerings.
Emboldened through the shared values of honesty, accountability, passion, integrity, and teamwork, we are driven by the challenge and bridging concepts with fruition. Each technologist entering Sperry imprints themselves into our brand and further galvanizes a culture of innovation and advancement. Allow us to be clear, Thought Leaders are welcome!
We are agile and hungry and invite those with similar passions to join us in challenging the status quo and bringing new ideas to the market. Fast-paced, high-touch with a distinct sense of purpose. We offer more than a job; we offer an opportunity to be part of something different.
Overview
Sperry Rail Service is a leading global provider of Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) services and technologies for railway networks worldwide. With over 95 years of industry leadership, Sperry continues to advance rail safety through innovation, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.
Position Summary
This is a high-travel, field-based position requiring travel throughout eastern or western US for extended periods (3-4 months at a time).
As a Certified Trainee/Apprentice, you will be trained and developed into a Certified Professional Operator in the Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) non-destructive testing (NDT) industry. Sperry provides paid, hands-on training through our Connecticut-based Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection, followed by extensive field experience.
Upon successful completion of training and certification, you will advance into a role where you may be responsible for operating your own testing platform and/or leading a crew.
The location shown in this posting is used for recruiting purposes. This role is field-based and requires extensive travel to multiple job sites, which will be the primary work locations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Attend and successfully complete training at the Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection
  • Learn and apply rail detection methods, technologies, and procedures across Short Line and Class I railways
  • Achieve certification in ultrasonic testing standards and apply skills in the field
  • Work collaboratively as part of a crew and develop leadership skills to eventually lead a team
  • Gain knowledge of Sperry's diagnostic technologies, systems, and interfaces
  • Develop mechanical aptitude, including equipment setup, troubleshooting, and basic repairs
  • Learn and adhere to railroad operating procedures and safety protocols
  • Apply classroom and field training during extended travel assignments (3-4 months at a time)

Basic Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Valid driver's license
  • Basic computer proficiency
  • Ability to multitask and work with tools/equipment
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to pass a background check, drug screen, and DOT physical (where applicable)

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) experience (ultrasonic preferred)
  • Prior railroad experience
  • Mechanical aptitude or experience with automotive/technical systems

Compensation & Benefits
  • Extensive travel opportunities
  • Hands-on technical experience
  • Career growth within a global organization
  • Pay: $20.00 per hour as a Trainee
  • Increase in pay after successful completion of training program
  • Per diem for meals
  • Travel and lodging expenses paid for by Sperry

Career Growth
  • This role offers a clear career path:
    Trainee → Certified Operator → Crew Leadership Opportunities
  • Sperry invests in your development by providing the training, tools, and real-world experience needed to build a long-term career in a specialized and high-demand industry.

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