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Relief Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Thorn Creek Basin Sanitary District

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RELIEF SHIFT OPERATOR

Chicago Heights, IL · On-site

$35.80/hr

We are looking for someone with a high school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of similar operating experience. Average mechanical aptitude, proficiency in math and average computer skills are ...

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Relief Operator information

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$21

$30

How much do relief operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for relief operator in Chicago, IL is $21.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a relief operator?

Relief Operators are trained personnel who temporarily fill in for regular operators at industrial or manufacturing facilities, such as chemical plants, oil refineries, or power plants. Their main role is to ensure continuous and safe operations by stepping into various operator positions when the primary staff are on leave, on breaks, or otherwise unavailable. Relief Operators must be knowledgeable about multiple operational processes, safety protocols, and equipment. They help maintain smooth workflow and minimize downtime by being flexible and adaptable to different tasks. This position often requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly learn new procedures.

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

To thrive as a Relief Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial processes, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA software, and routine maintenance tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing shifts and responding to emerging issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations, especially when stepping in for other operators.

How does a relief operator manage transitioning between different equipment or workstations during a shift?

Relief Operators are responsible for covering various equipment or workstations, often stepping in for other operators during breaks or shift changes. To manage these transitions smoothly, Relief Operators must quickly familiarize themselves with the current status of each workstation, review operational logs, and communicate clearly with the outgoing operator. This adaptability helps maintain consistent production and safety standards. Strong attention to detail and effective communication are key to ensuring a seamless handover and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Relief Operator vs Process Operator?

AspectRelief OperatorProcess Operator
CredentialsTypically requires safety training and basic operational certificationsRequires specific process or plant operation certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in industrial plants, often on short-term or temporary basisWorks in continuous process environments, often full-time
Employer & IndustryEmployers include manufacturing, oil & gas, chemical plantsEmployers include chemical, petrochemical, and manufacturing industries

Relief Operators primarily provide temporary coverage and safety-focused support in industrial settings, while Process Operators handle ongoing, routine operations of plant processes. Both roles require safety training, but Process Operators typically need more specialized process certifications. Relief Operators are often employed for short-term needs, whereas Process Operators work full-time in continuous operations.

How much do relief operators make?

Relief operators typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $15 to $25, depending on the industry, location, and experience. They often work in environments requiring safety certifications and may receive additional pay for overtime or shift work.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Relief Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Relief Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,634 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Operator 3, Bakery- Break Relief- 3rd Shift

Aspire Bakeries

Alsip, IL

$21 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Aspire Bakeries rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

255th of 444 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Hungry for a career that's as rewarding as it is delicious? 

At Aspire Bakeries, we don't just bake breads, cookies, and cakes - we create foods that bring people together. From La Brea Bakery artisan breads to Otis Spunkmeyer cookies, our products are enjoyed by millions of people every day. And behind every bite are talented manufacturing and support teams who take pride in their work and our food. 

We're looking for hard-working people who will bring integrity, creativity, and a passion for excellence to everything they do - whether that's on the bakery floor, in the office, or supporting customers. In return, we offer a workplace culture built on care, ownership, and growth - where your contributions matter and your career can rise as high as our bread loaves! 

With 13 commercial bakeries across North America and a reputation as an industry leader, Aspire Bakeries is rising together with our people and our customers to be the best all-around bakery solution. If you're ready to grow with us, we'd love to hear from you

 

Why You'll Love Working At Aspire Bakeries

  • Culture - Our culture thrives on collaboration, diversity, and a shared passion for excellence. We support team members, empower growth, and encourage everyone to bring their authentic selves to work.
  • Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-paid life insurance and additional voluntary options to fit your needs.
  • Work-Life Balance - Paid parental leave, generous paid time off, and holidays so you can recharge and spend time on what matters most.
  • Financial Security - Competitive retirement plans, plus short- and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind.
  • Growth & Development - Opportunities to build skills, grow your career, and develop expertise through Aspire Bakeries' learning and development programs.
  • Flexibility & Support - HSA and FSA plans to help you manage everyday expenses.
  • Recognition & Rewards - Performance incentive plans that celebrate achievements across sales, bakery performance, and individual contributions.


About the Role

We are seeking a Break Relief to join our team at our Alsip, IL bakery. As a Break Relief, you will be accountable for providing operational support across multiple production functions to ensure uninterrupted workflow, consistent product quality, food safety compliance, and efficient bakery operations. This role is essential in maintaining production continuity while supporting team performance and adherence to company standards.

Shift & Schedule

  • Shift: 3rd Shift
  • Hours: 7:45 PM - 6:15 AM
  • Schedule: Sunday - Wednesday
  • Overtime: Possible overtime on Thursday
  • Weekend Availability: Required


Compensation

  • Hourly Rate: $21.00 - $22.00


Core Accountabilities (What You'll be Doing)

  • Provide break relief coverage across multiple production functions to maintain operational efficiency.
  • Perform production activities in compliance with food safety, quality, legality, and GMP requirements.
  • Complete accurate production, waste, and operational documentation.
  • Operate production equipment and workstations safely while following established SOPs.
  • Monitor products and processes to ensure compliance with company quality and production standards.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas and equipment.
  • Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance, and production team members to support continuous operations.

Minimum Qualifications (What You Bring to the Table)

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum one (1) year of manufacturing, production, or transferable work experience.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Ability to learn and perform multiple production job functions.
  • Knowledge of and ability to follow GMPs, food safety, allergen, food defense, HACCP, and safety requirements.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and work on production lines for extended periods, including shifts of 8 hours or more.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or move up to 50 pounds periodically throughout the shift.


Preferred Qualifications (Extra Ingredients for Success)

  • Experience in the food manufacturing or bakery industry.
  • Experience operating production equipment in a manufacturing environment.
  • Knowledge of food safety and quality systems.
  • Experience following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Aspire Bakeries is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants.

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