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Screw Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Machinery operated includes circular saws, drill press, band saw, drum/disc sanders, chop saw, nail guns, screw guns and forklift. Pack and ship product per customer specific requirements) * - Steady ...

CNC SETUP Technician Lathes

Rockford, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $37.50/hr

... setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC and manual machinery (Lathes) to support efficient ... Rockford Ball Screw believes a happy healthy employee is what makes our business work. We want to ...

... Screw Machine Products, and Centerless Grinding Services. Our 63,000-square foot facility is in ... Maintain all quality records in ERP System, operating automated equipment a Keyence Vision system ...

... Screw Machine Products, and Centerless Grinding Services. Our 63,000-square foot facility is in ... Maintain all quality records in ERP System, operating automated equipment a Keyence Vision system ...

Set Up Machinist

Skokie, IL ยท On-site

$25.75 - $38/hr

... through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging ... Machine operation involves loading and tending runs of parts, or performing one-step operations on ...

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... through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging ... Machine operation involves loading and tending runs of parts, or performing one-step operations on ...

CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

Skokie, IL ยท On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Produces machined parts using a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathe machine. Studies work orders ... Team members in this position may be exposed to loud operating machinery, cold temperatures, hot ...

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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 Sep 14, 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 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,095 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

2nd Shift - Machine Operator I - Grinder

Rockford, IL โ€ข On-site

Rockford Ball Screw Co.
Machinery Manufacturingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$19 - $23.75/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description:

2nd shift hours: 3PM-11:30PM   


Summary/Objective

The Machine Operator I is responsible for operating and maintaining various Roll Thread & Grinding equipment. This role focuses on gaining proficiency in operating these machines, with the flexibility to operate additional equipment as needed to support evolving business demands. The primary focus is on operating assigned machinery, following established procedures, and ensuring product quality. This role reports directly to the Production Manager.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Perform machine setup for Grind & Roll equipment by following setup sheets and loading the appropriate dies and tooling into machinery.

2. Run and maintain equipment, loading raw materials into machinery using lifts and cranes as necessary.

3. Operate within a production cell, grinding bar stock to prepare it for roll threading, ensuring tolerances are maintained throughout the process.

4. Inspect product throughout the production process using precision tools such as calipers and micrometers to ensure they meet required tolerances.

5. Document daily production activities, including machine performance, part quality, and material usage in the ERP system.

6. Collaborate with maintenance teams to troubleshoot mechanical issues, minimizing machine downtime.

7. Ensure compliance with all safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintain a clean and organized workspace using 5S methodologies.

8. Assist with material handling, moving raw materials and finished products to and from workstations using equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts.

9. Perform quality assurance checks on completed products to ensure they meet company and customer specifications.

10. Flex across various departments within the facility to support business needs and maintain efficient production workflow.

11. Perform other duties as assigned.
 

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Working conditions are normal for a manufacturing environment. Work involves frequent lifting of materials and product up to 50 pounds and seldom lifting to 75lbs. Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle and/or adjust equipment. Moderate reaching, pushing, pulling, gripping, and grasping. Machinery operation requires the use of safety equipment to include but not limited to safety glasses, and steel toed work boots or shoes. 

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position at 40+ hours per week. Days and hours of work will be determined by management. Typical schedule is Monday through Friday eight (8) hours per day. Occasional overtime, evening and weekend work may be required to meet business demands.


It is impossible to list every requirement for, or responsibility of, any position. Similarly, we cannot identify all the skills a position may require since job responsibilities and the Company’s needs may change over time. Therefore, the above job description is not comprehensive or exhaustive. The Company reserves the right to adjust, add to or eliminate any aspect of the above description. The Company also retains the right to require all employees to undertake additional or different job responsibilities when necessary to meet business needs.


Compensation

Our current hiring pay range for this position is $19-$23.75/hour. This hiring pay range is based on several factors which vary based on position. These include labor markets and, in some instances, may include education, work experience, knowledge, skills and certifications.

In addition to this base pay, Rockford Ball Screw employees are eligible for a bonus. Depending on your position you may be categorized into different tiers in the quarterly or annual bonus plan. Currently, this position is classified as a Quarterly Bonus within the Individual Contributor tier.

Benefits

Rockford Ball Screw believes a happy healthy employee is what makes our business work. We want to continuously invest in the people that make it happen. Rockford Ball Screw eligible employees have access to a comprehensive competitive package. Please visit our website at https://rockfordballscrew.com/contact/careers/ for more information.


Salary Description

$19.00-$23.75

Requirements:

 Required Education and Experience

  1. Must be 18 years or older.
  2. 1-3      years of experience operating large-scale roll threading machinery.
  3. High School Diploma/GED      equivalent or significant relevant work experience. 
  4. Average level of computer      literacy. 
  5. Capable of using measuring      instruments, i.e. micrometer, calipers, gages, etc.
  6. Capable of using all required      hand tools.
  7. Ability      to read/write, perform basic arithmetic, and follow verbal and written      instructions.