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Traveling Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $30/hr

... a Job Traveler, operate machines, perform required quality testing, and perform material ... Operator in the department We're Looking For - 2+ years of machine operating experience preferred ...

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viant is a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift) Viantis a global medical device design and manufacturing ... instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations * Cleans and maintains machinery as ...

YOU As a Machine Operator you are responsible for operating the assigned machinery, ensuring it ... TRAVEL REQUIRED This position requires domestic and international travel up to 5% of the time. WORK ...

Machine Operator

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

None Zip Code: 60140 Travel Percentage: 0 Compensation Range: $19.00 - $22.00 The compensation ... Setting up and operating machine tools to convert materials into parts, sub-assemblies, and ...

As Machine Operator, you may operate fabricating machines, such as cutoff saws, shears, rolls ... High school diploma or GED required Travel & Working Environment * Onsite * The employee will be ...

Machine Operator

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$10 - $48/hr

None Zip Code: 60140 Travel Percentage: 0 Compensation Range: $10.00 - $48.00 The compensation ... Setting up and operating machine tools to convert materials into parts, sub-assemblies, and ...

Machine Operator

Dixon, IL · On-site

$37K - $61K/yr

As Machine Operator, you may operate fabricating machines, such as cutoff saws, shears, rolls ... High school diploma or GED required Travel & Working Environment * Onsite * The employee will be ...

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

Tempel Steel is looking to add a Machine Operator to the team. This position is responsible for ... Occasional travel may be required to support business needs, customer meetings, or professional ...

Machine Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

We are looking for Machine Operators for our 3rd shift operation (11:00 pm to 7:00 am) The operator ... Reads travelers and set up all orders within specifications. * Troubleshoots assigned equipment.

Machine Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$21.50/hr

We are looking for Machine Operators for our 3rd shift operation (11:00 pm to 7:00 am) The operator ... Reads travelers and set up all orders within specifications. * Troubleshoots assigned equipment.

What You Will Do The Media Machine Operator II is an experienced machine operator responsible for ... Willingness to travel internationally for specialized training for an extended period, potentially ...

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Traveling Machine Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do traveling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for traveling machine operator in Illinois is $17.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traveling machine operator?

Traveling Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate and maintain machinery at various job sites, often traveling between different locations as required by their employer. Their main responsibilities include setting up, running, and troubleshooting industrial machines used in manufacturing, construction, or other specialized industries. These operators must be adaptable, able to work with different types of equipment, and willing to spend time away from home. Safety and attention to detail are crucial, as they often work in environments where precision and adherence to safety protocols are essential.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a traveling machine operator?

To thrive as a Traveling Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with industrial machinery, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring vocational training. Familiarity with equipment-specific controls, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or CDL for transportation are typical requirements. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working in diverse locations and teams. These abilities ensure safe, efficient machine operation and adaptability across various job sites, which are crucial for productivity and safety.

What challenges do traveling machine operators face at different job sites?

Traveling Machine Operators often encounter the challenge of adapting quickly to various job site conditions, equipment models, and safety protocols. Each location may have unique operational procedures or terrain, requiring operators to be flexible and proactive in learning new systems. Additionally, working with new teams frequently demands strong communication skills and the ability to integrate smoothly with diverse groups. Successfully handling these challenges not only ensures operational efficiency but also enhances professional reputation and future opportunities.

What is the difference between Traveling Machine Operator vs Mobile Equipment Operator?

AspectTraveling Machine OperatorMobile Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific licensesCommercial driver’s license (CDL), safety certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, remote locationsConstruction sites, warehouses, transportation hubs
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation across various industriesOperating mobile equipment like forklifts, bulldozers

Traveling Machine Operators and Mobile Equipment Operators both require safety certifications and work in similar environments. However, Traveling Machine Operators often operate larger, specialized machinery across multiple sites, while Mobile Equipment Operators typically handle mobile equipment like forklifts within specific facilities. Both roles are essential in construction, manufacturing, and logistics industries.

How much do traveling machine operators make?

Traveling machine operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of machinery operated. They often work in construction, manufacturing, or transportation environments and may require specialized certifications or licenses.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Traveling Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Traveling Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Traveling Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,655 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

Plitek, L.L.C.
Plastics Product Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$17.50 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

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Job description

1st, 2nd, and 2/3 shift flex positions available.


We are located at: 35 Piper Ln, Prospect Heights, IL 60070


SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for running production equipment. This position will require a great deal of flexibility in work from day to day, allowing smooth transition from one project to the next within a single shift as priorities change. This position will be primarily responsible for operating rotary die-cutters, slitters, adhesive coating, extruders, and/or other Punch Press machines with multiple material parts. Some responsibilities will include packing product for shipment and supporting other operations as necessary. This position will also be responsible for overseeing the packing of product produced and be available to help train and answer questions as they arise.

KEY SKILLS & RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Follow direction from the supervisor in your department

- Operate any equipment in a safe manner and comply with all Safety Policies.

- Ability to read a Job Traveler, operate machines, perform required quality testing, and perform material transactions.

- Competent in reading blueprints, quality instructions, work instructions, etc.

- Ability to use metrology devices as needed (loupe, ruler, calipers, etc.)

- Maintain production standards across all current job responsibilities.

- Document production and quality results in the Computer System and on Job Travelers (Vantage)

- Comply with the established QMS (ISO 9001) procedures and work instructions.

- Mentor and train any Production Assistant/Packer and Machine Operator in the department


We're Looking For

- 2+ years of machine operating experience preferred

- High School Diploma/GED

- Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

- Ability to read, speak, and write English

- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

- Dependable, safety-minded, and willing to learn


PLITEK offers an extensive compensation and benefits package, which includes:

· Competitive Rate

· Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance

· Short Term Disability and Life Insurance

· 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Matching

· Paid Time Off

· Holiday Pay

Company Description

PLITEK® is a leading U.S. based precision die cutting and custom converting manufacturer, specializing in converting solutions for medical devices, automotive components, aerospace materials, electronics, and packaging. PLITEK® delivers scalable, ISO-certified manufacturing solutions with a focus on quality, speed to market, and sustainability.

PLITEK® ’s die cutting and converting capabilities include precision die cutting, multi-layer laminating, custom film extrusion, specialty adhesive coating, release liner coating, surface treatment, slitting & rewinding, printing, and packaging.

Our value-added services also include material selection assistance, design support, rapid prototyping, clean room manufacturing, and contract assembly & packaging.

We focus on providing solutions for our customers and strongly value quality, innovation, hard work, and good business ethics.

Mission: World-Class Excellence

We maximize client satisfaction and employee pride of ownership by demonstrating competence and creativity with professionalism. We are committed to quality by using best practice manufacturing processes and state-of-the art technology to deliver world-class products and services.

Our Core Values include:

– Integrity

– Strict Confidentiality

– Strong Relationships

– Entrepreneurial Spirit

– Partnership- Supporting Our People and Community

PLITEK® is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and proud to have created a collaborative culture where employees around the world are seen, heard, and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or marital status or status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected classification.


PLITEK logo

About PLITEK

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics product manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Prospect Heights, IL, US

Year founded

1962