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Traveling Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Viant

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 ...

medplast

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL

$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 ...

medplast

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL

$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 ...

medplast

Machine Operator

Wheeling, IL

$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 ...

Simpson Strong-Tie

Machine Operator

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

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 ...

Plitek, L.L.C.

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

... a Job Traveler, operate machines, perform required quality testing, and perform material ... Operator in the department PLITEK offers an extensive compensation and benefits package, which ...

Sysco Corporation

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 ...

Sysco Corporation

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 ...

Amcor plc

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.

RENSA FILTRATION INC

Media Machine Operator II

Aurora, IL · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

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 ...

New

Amcor

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.

Amcor plc

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.

WORTHINGTON STEEL

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

New

Pratt Industries

Paper Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Paper Machine Operator: Drive Innovation and Excellence in Papermaking! Are you an ambitious ... that may involve travel to other Pratt Paper Mills. Ready to build your future? Apply now and ...

Pratt Industries

Paper Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Paper Machine Operator: Drive Innovation and Excellence in Papermaking! Are you an ambitious ... that may involve travel to other Pratt Paper Mills. Ready to build your future? Apply now and ...

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All JobsTraveling Machine Operator JobsTraveling Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Traveling Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do traveling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for traveling machine operator in Chicago, IL is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.05 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 are popular job titles related to Traveling Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

Traveling Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Traveling Machine 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 $38,967 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Machine Operator

Viant

Wheeling, IL • On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Machine Operator - (2nd / 3rd shift)
Viantis a global medical device design and manufacturing services provider that partners and innovates with customers to provide the highest quality, life enhancing medical devices. With nearly 6,000 associates across 24 locations worldwide, we offer a unique combination of small-company service and attention with big-company resources. For more information, visit viantmedical.com or follow us on LinkedIn.
Join our team and produce products that save and enhance lives!
Shift Hours (includes 20 min paid lunch; Monday-Friday workweek)
2nd shift: 2:00 pm - 10:00 pm
3rd shift: 10:00 pm - 6:00 am
"We offer market competitive compensation. Potential salary range for this role is $19.00-$23.00/hour, 10% shift differential for 2nd and 3rd shift. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law."
Benefits:
  • New employees are eligible for the following benefits effective date of hire!
  • Perfect Attendance Bonus valued at $800 annually (prorated based on start date)
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Company-paid life insurance and disability benefits
  • 17 days of paid time off (pro-rated) and 10 paid Holidays

Work Environment:
  • Climate Controlled Facility
  • Clean & Comfortable Setting

Position Summary:
The employee will be mainly responsible for operating machines and equipment used in the manufacturing of products and will work with other employees to effectively meet or exceed expectations for product quality and production rates.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operates machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing of products
  • Follows all required work and maintenance instructions and procedures
  • Loads component materials into product specific tools
  • Inspects parts visually and dimensionally to assure conformance to requirements
  • Performs basic set-up and operation manual machines when required
  • Maintains machine maintenance and log
  • Follows established documentation for product manufacturing, including but not limited to SOPs/work instructions, travelers, routers, prints and deviations
  • Cleans and maintains machinery as necessary.
  • Performs other functions as required.

Job Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 1-2 years experience operating machines in a manufacturing environment preferred
  • Must have basic knowledge of visual and dimensional inspection equipment and techniques
  • Basic shop math skills required
  • Working knowledge of reading basic blueprints and/or operation sheets
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work with small precision parts

Apply