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Pump Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Production Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

Operate manufacturing equipment such as pumps and valves * Operate packaging equipment such as ... May assist in training of other General Production Operators as needed. * May be required to work a ...

Production Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

Operate manufacturing equipment such as pumps and valves * Operate packaging equipment such as ... May assist in training of other General Production Operators as needed. * May be required to work a ...

Chemical Operator I

Chicago, IL

$19.75 - $22.75/hr

... Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

Chemical Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

Assures Distillation units are never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is not ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

Chemical Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $22.75/hr

... Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

Chemical Operator I

Chicago, IL

$19.75 - $22.75/hr

... Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

Solvent Process Operator I

Dolton, IL · On-site

$15.14 - $30.29/hr

Assures Distillation units are never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is not ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

... Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

... Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

... Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all ... Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure ...

Control, operate, and monitor water levels, flows, mixers, pumps, filters, instrumentation, sludge ... Must obtain Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Class K Industrial Treatment Operator license ...

Position Summary The Adhesive Mixing and Waste Processing Operator safely prepares adhesive batches ... Forklift Assisted Pump waste adhesive to waste treatment building 5 to 15 cycles per shift Job ...

... operating, maintaining, and repairing water pumping equipment and facilities • Inspects station operations and makes staffing, equipment, and procedural changes to ensure operational efficiency and ...

Showing results 21-40

Pump Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$28.4K

$53.7K

$76.3K

How much do pump operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pump operator in Chicago, IL is $53,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pump operator?

Pump operators handle pumps and manifold systems that transfer liquids, gases, and powdered material at a variety of utility and manufacturing plants. As a pump operator, you monitor pressure and temperature gauges to ensure that there are no abnormalities with the transfer of the materials. Your responsibilities include keeping a careful record of all the data you observe and paying attention to any discrepancies that might indicate a safety or operational problem. Pump operators also tend to the vessels that contain the materials they are pumping. For a career as a pump operator, you need strong mechanical skills, the ability to read gauges, and be able to perform simple math and data analysis.

What does a pump operator do?

A Pump Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining pumps and related equipment used to move liquids, such as water, chemicals, oil, or gas, through pipelines or other systems. Their duties include starting and stopping pumps, monitoring gauges and flow meters, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. Pump Operators often work in industries like water treatment, oil and gas, manufacturing, or construction, ensuring that the flow of materials is consistent and meets operational requirements. Safety and adherence to regulations are also important aspects of the job.

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

To thrive as a Pump Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, equipment maintenance, and basic math, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pump control systems, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently under pressure are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operation of pumping equipment and help prevent costly downtime or accidents.

What are some common challenges pump operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Pump Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, which can lead to fatigue and disrupt personal routines. Managing these challenges involves maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, staying hydrated, and communicating proactively with team members to ensure smooth handovers between shifts. Additionally, being vigilant about equipment monitoring and troubleshooting under varying conditions is crucial for operational safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Pump Operator vs Well Pump Technician?

AspectPump OperatorWell Pump Technician
CertificationsMay require OSHA safety training, CDL in some casesOften requires specialized certifications in well and pump systems
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, water treatment facilitiesWell sites, water systems, rural and urban water supply locations
Industry UsageWater, oil, and gas industries, constructionWater supply, municipal, and private well systems

While both Pump Operators and Well Pump Technicians work with pumps, Pump Operators typically focus on operating and maintaining pumps in industrial or construction settings, often requiring safety certifications. Well Pump Technicians specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining well pumps used in water supply systems, often needing specialized technical certifications. The roles overlap in work environment and industry but differ in technical focus and certification requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Pump Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Pump Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Pump Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Pump Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,735 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Production Operator

Smart Ims

Wheeling, IL • On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Company Description

**** Onsite Role ***
 

2 positions for Night Shift roles 6 pm-6:30 am

3  positions Day shifts M-F 8 am to 4:30m

Job Description

 Steel-toed boots required- can be reimbursed with expense . Physical required. 

Core Responsibilities:

  • Perform functions relating to various tasks including: depalletization, production filling, product packaging, palletization, shipping and receiving. 

Major tasks include:

  • Advocate and practice the principals of the Safety program
  • Participate in plant safety committee meetings and activities
  • Operate paint making control systems
  • Operate manufacturing equipment such as pumps and valves
  • Operate packaging equipment such as robotics, filling machines, case packers, labelers, etc.
  • Operate forklifts
  • Unloading of dry and liquid materials
  • Loading of trucks with finished goods
  • Monitor quality or product in manufacturing and packaging areas to include OTMIS (off the mill in spec), cycles, fill levels, package appearance, fill weights, and raw material certificate of analysis
  • Report unsafe conditions using STOP or SMART cards.
  • Reading and following instructions in all areas of the production floor, packaging, shipping, receiving, etc.
  • Participate in housekeeping activities that are indicative of a safe and clutter free work environment

Additional Duties:

  • May assist in training of other General Production Operators as needed.
  • May be required to work a different shift to cover for vacations, overtime, call-ins, etc.
Additional Information

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


Smart IMS logo

About Smart IMS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Smart IMS has grown to be one of the trusted technology and service partner for enterprises across the globe. Founded by business and technology experts with extensive experience in designing, implementing, and managing large and complex projects at Fortune 500 companies, we’ve perfected the craft of creating solutions that truly make a difference.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Plainsboro, NJ, US

Year founded

1994