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Shear Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CNC Laser Operator

Crete, IL · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Shears * CNC machines * Other production machinery * Diagnose equipment issues using precision measuring and diagnostic tools, including multimeters, dial indicators, and other testing instruments.

Fabricator

Gary, IN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Experience operating fabrication machinery (press brake, shear, CNC laser, etc.) preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving abilities. * Ability to lift 50+ lbs and stand for ...

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... be operating production equipment. Key requirements: * Must have experience with Adobe Illustrator and Onyx Production Software * Experience with large format printing, laminators, hydraulic shear ...

Welder

Libertyville, IL

$19 - $25/hr

Proficient with metal shear, lathe, iron worker and welding certifications a plus. * Able to use & read a tape measure accurately. * Have prior experience operating basic hand and power tools.

... shears, press brakes, hand brakes and lock formers. • Cuts sheet metal to size by using ... AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving ...

Uses fabrication machines such as sheet metal shears, press brakes, hand brakes and lock formers ... AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving ...

Uses fabrication machines such as sheet metal shears, press brakes, hand brakes and lock formers ... AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving ...

Fabricator

Hobart, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Operate fabrication and machine shop machinery such as saws, shears, rolls, brakes, presses, and ... Experience operating overhead cranes and brake presses * Ability to read and interpret blueprints

Essential Skills * 6 months to 1 year of metal machine operating experience, preferably with press ... Hands-on experience using hand and power tools such as sanders, shears, presses, and spot welders.

Warehouseperson I

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18.57/hr

Operating warehouse machinery in accordance with established procedures, obtains item(s) in stock ... Will be trained in cutting -shears * Will be cross trained in Shipping and Receiving and must be ...

Operating warehouse machinery in accordance with established procedures, obtains item(s) in stock ... Will be trained in cutting -shears * Will be cross trained in Shipping and Receiving and must be ...

Operating warehouse machinery in accordance with established procedures, obtains item(s) in stock ... Will be trained in cutting -shears * Will be cross trained in Shipping and Receiving and must be ...

All products and tools provided except shears and clippers. We are a leading technology company in ... Franchisees are independent business owners/operators who set their own wage and benefit programs ...

Showing results 21-40

Shear Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do shear operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for shear operator in Chicago, IL is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shear operator?

A Shear Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining power shears or cutting machines to trim, cut, or shear metal or other materials to specified dimensions. They read work orders, adjust machine settings, and ensure precise cuts while maintaining safety standards. Shear Operators also inspect finished pieces for accuracy, perform routine maintenance on equipment, and may assist in material handling or production workflows. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and adherence to workplace safety regulations.

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

To excel as a Shear Operator, you need proficiency in reading blueprints, measuring materials, and operating industrial shearing machines, often backed by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with metalworking machinery, basic mechanical maintenance, and industry safety certifications like OSHA are frequently required. Detail orientation, good hand-eye coordination, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise material cutting, safe workplace practices, and efficient production workflows.

What are some typical challenges that shear operators face in their daily work?

Shear Operators often work with heavy materials and must pay close attention to detail to ensure precise cuts and minimize waste, which can be physically demanding and mentally focused work. They may also have to adapt quickly to changing production schedules and handle minor equipment troubleshooting as issues arise. Working effectively as part of a team with other machine operators, welders, and supervisors is essential. Staying up-to-date on safety protocols and regular equipment maintenance is another challenge, but it helps ensure both personal and team safety on the job.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Shear Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,563 per year, or $20 per hour.

CNC Laser Operator

W3Global Inc.

Crete, IL • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Machinery Mechanic / Millwright to join a well-established manufacturing company. This role is ideal for a hands-on maintenance professional with strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills who enjoys working on industrial manufacturing equipment in a fast-paced production environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining, diagnosing, repairing, and improving a variety of manufacturing equipment to ensure maximum uptime and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on industrial manufacturing equipment.

  • Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.

  • Maintain and repair equipment such as:

    • Mechanical presses

    • Hydraulic presses

    • Shears

    • CNC machines

    • Other production machinery

  • Diagnose equipment issues using precision measuring and diagnostic tools, including multimeters, dial indicators, and other testing instruments.

  • Perform welding and fabrication repairs as required.

  • Ensure all equipment operates safely and efficiently while minimizing downtime.

  • Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment when necessary.

  • Maintain maintenance records and document repairs accurately.

  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards.

  • Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to improve equipment reliability.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 5 years of experience as an Industrial Machinery Mechanic or Millwright in a manufacturing environment.

  • Strong knowledge of industrial mechanical systems.

  • Experience troubleshooting:

    • Mechanical systems

    • Hydraulic systems

    • Pneumatic systems

    • Electrical systems (low and high voltage)

  • Experience maintaining heavy industrial manufacturing equipment.

  • Welding and fabrication experience.

  • Ability to read mechanical and electrical drawings/schematics is preferred.

  • Experience using diagnostic and precision measuring equipment.

  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

  • Good verbal and written communication skills in English.

  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Preferred Background

Candidates with experience in the following industries are highly preferred:

  • Metal fabrication

  • Metal stamping

  • Automotive manufacturing

  • Steel manufacturing

  • Industrial machinery

  • Heavy manufacturing

  • Machine shops

  • Production facilities

Benefits
  • Competitive hourly pay

  • Health Insurance

  • Dental Insurance

  • Vision Insurance

  • 401(k)

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)


W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006