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Screw Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Basler Co. is seeking an experienced Multi-Spindle Screw Machine Operator to join our precision manufacturing team. In this role, you will operate and maintain multiple spindle screw machines to ...

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Cold-Heading Operator

Niles, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Cold Heading Operating experience preferred * Well versed in reading blueprints, using measuring ... Our in-house manufacturing capabilities, including cold-heading and screw machine operations ...

Machine Operator We are seeking dedicated Machine Operators to join a screw and fastener coating company. As a Machine Operator, you will play a critical role in enhancing screws by applying ...

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Screw Machine Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$22

$31

How much do screw machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for screw machine operator in Illinois is $22.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Screw Machine Operator?

A screw machine operator is a type of machinist who uses an automatic lathe to build specialty and custom-ordered parts or tools. As a screw machine operator, you install stops, gears, and cams and adjust them to produce parts to client specifications. Your responsibilities include the operation and monitoring of the turning machine and other machinery as each part is made and testing each piece against the blueprints. Screw machine operators need a high school degree or a GED certificate. Skills and qualifications that help in a screw machine operator career include mechanical experience and mathematical abilities. You need to be able to read blueprints accurately and properly service and maintain your equipment.

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

To thrive as a Screw Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with machine operation, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with screw machines, CNC equipment, and blueprint reading, along with relevant safety certifications, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and effective communication help operators excel and adapt to production demands. These skills are important for ensuring efficient machine operation, product quality, and a safe manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Screw Machine Operator vs Lathe Machinist?

AspectScrew Machine OperatorLathe Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, working with small parts on automatic or semi-automatic machinesMachine shops, working with various materials on manual or CNC lathes
Industry UsageCommon in fast-paced production of small, precise partsUsed in custom, prototype, or small-batch manufacturing

While both Screw Machine Operators and Lathe Machinists work in manufacturing environments and require similar credentials, Screw Machine Operators focus on operating automatic screw machines for high-volume, small-part production. Lathe Machinists typically work with manual or CNC lathes for diverse, often lower-volume projects. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by Screw Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Screw Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, maintaining tight tolerances, and managing tool wear. Addressing these requires strong attention to detail, regular preventive maintenance, and a proactive approach to troubleshooting. Collaborating closely with maintenance teams and quality inspectors also helps ensure smooth operations and product quality. Continuous learning about new machining techniques and keeping up with safety protocols can further enhance efficiency and job satisfaction.

What are Screw Machine Operators?

Screw Machine Operators are skilled workers who set up and operate automatic screw machines to produce precision turned parts, such as screws, bolts, and other small metal components. They read blueprints or job orders to determine machine setup and operation, select and install cutting tools, and monitor the machining process to ensure quality standards. These operators often perform routine maintenance on the machines and inspect finished parts for accuracy. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important for success in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Screw Machine Operator jobs in Illinois? For Screw Machine Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Screw Machine Operator jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Screw Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Screw Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Screw Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Screw Machine Operator jobs in IL? For Screw Machine Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Screw Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,095 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Screw Machine Operator

Hughes Recruiting & Consulting

Seward, IL • On-site

$16 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Screw Machine Operator: Seward, Illinois
Our customer in Seward, Illinois is seeking motivated individuals to join their team. We’re recruiting Screw Machine Operators to work full-time on Day Shift. As a Screw Machine Operator, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining screw machines to produce precision parts according to specifications.
Responsibilities of the Screw Machine Operator:
  • Prepare and operate screw machines for drilling, grinding, and machining tasks.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, and operation cards.
  • Load raw materials and parts onto machines.
  • Perform first-piece production and submit to Quality for approval.
  • Run production after approval and monitor machine performance.
  • Make necessary adjustments to improve output quality.
  • Inspect and measure finished products to ensure specifications are met.
  • Clean and maintain machines throughout shift.
  • Perform daily machine checks to ensure functionality.
  • Coordinate unloading of chip hoppers as needed.
  • Turn in finished product for inspection at designated areas.
  • Clock off parts produced for each completed operation.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area and dispose of scrap properly.
Screw Machine Operator Requirements and Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Willingness to learn and take on new tasks.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprint drawings.
  • Proficient in Imperial and Metric Measurement Systems.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and math skills.
  • Inspection and measurement experience including: Optical comparator, Profilometer, Roundness tester, and Universal Gauge. Hand gauges, such as, but not limited too: Micrometers, Calipers, Pitch Micrometers, Internal Id gauges, Radius Gauges, indicators, and Height Gauge.
  • Knowledge and use of geometric tolerance’s.
Pay for Screw Machine Operator: $16 - $28 (top range needs a minimum of 10 years on screw machines).
Screw Machine Operator Benefits:
  • Health insurance.
  • Paid time off.
  • 401k with company match.
  • Paid weekly.
  • Direct deposit.
  • Paid training.
Type: 1st Shift, Full-time
Schedule: 6:30am - 5:00pm.
Apply now!
Are you ready to move from the worries of today to your dreams of tomorrow? If so, give Hughes a call. We are the top-rated staffing, recruiting, and HR experts in the region. We are headquartered in Freeport, IL and have 11 locations across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Where we have offices, we have connections to the best local jobs! Walk in our doors and you’ll find friendly professional staff who dig deep, get results, and most importantly have fun! The reviews speak for themselves, at Hughes we quickly hook you up with companies that offer competitive pay rates, great culture & benefits, and a chance to elevate your life. We offer health insurance and 401(k) too to all our employees. To get the ball rolling, visit us online at www.hughesrecruiting.com and complete our application. We’ll be in touch soon!