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Turret Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Manual Machinist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Manual Machinist (Lathe, Boring Mill & Vertical Turret Lathe) Position Summary We are seeking a skilled Manual Machinist with strong experience operating conventional/manual machine tools, including ...

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Manual Lathe Operator

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are urgently hiring a Manual Lathe Operator to join our 1st shift production team. This is a ... Set up and operate manual vertical & horizontal turret lathes * Support complementary equipment ...

Manual Lathe Machinist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Maintain equipment and document work accurately Required Qualifications * 5+ years of experience operating manual vertical turret lathes * Proficiency with precision measurement instruments * Ability ...

Job Title: CNC Lathe Operator The CNC Lathe Operator will be responsible for operating and ... Operate single turret CNC Lathe Machines with Live Tooling capabilities. * Inspect parts using ...

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Turret Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$20

$25

How much do turret operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for turret operator in Chicago, IL is $20.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a turret operator?

A Turret Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining turret machinery in manufacturing, packaging, or defense industries. They ensure equipment functions efficiently, make minor repairs, and adhere to safety protocols. In some roles, they may monitor product quality and adjust settings as needed. The job requires mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow technical instructions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a turret operator?

To excel as a Turret Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC machinery, automated turret systems, and industry certifications such as OSHA safety training are commonly required. Strong teamwork, effective communication skills, and adaptability are valuable soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure precision, workplace safety, and efficient production in manufacturing or defense environments.

What challenges do turret operators face and how can they be managed?

Turret Operators often encounter challenges such as managing repetitive tasks, maintaining high levels of accuracy, and adhering to strict safety protocols in a noisy, fast-paced setting. Staying focused and proactive with machine maintenance can help prevent errors and equipment downtime. Collaborating closely with production supervisors and fellow machine operators is crucial for meeting quotas and resolving issues swiftly. Continuous learning and openness to feedback also play a significant role in adapting to evolving technology and workplace procedures.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Turret Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,614 per year, or $21 per hour.

2nd Shift - CNC Bar Feed Lathe Operator (4P-12:30A)

HELIOS TECHNOLOGIES INC

Buffalo Grove, IL

$25 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Incentives:

Shift Differential: 10%

401K: 100% Matching 6%

Tuition Reimbursement: 100% of In-State Accredited Approved Program

Health, Dental, and Vision: Extremely affordable and market leading health benefits.

ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan): 15% discount on purchased stock at the lowest price of the quarter.

Job Summary: 

The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Lathe Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining CNC single turret/dual turret, twin spindle lathes to produce high quality parts according to blueprint specifications. This position requires a strong attention to detail, ability to read and interpret drawings, understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), with a commitment to Safety and Precision in a Manufacturing environment. 

Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Operate single turret/dual turret, twin spindle CNC Lathe Machines with Live Tooling capabilities, attached with 6’ bar feeders 

  • Inspect parts using precision measuring tools (e.g., Micrometers, Pin gages, bore gages, Thread gages, Plug gages, Drop Indicators, Height gages, Comparators) 

  • As required, ability to manual deburr parts during the machining process 

  • Ability to make offsets to tooling under Fanuc controls 

  • Identify and resolve machining issues such as tool wear to maintain the customer required dimensions 

  • Accurately record production data, including quantities and quality inspections 

  • Follow all safety protocols and ensure the workspace is cleaned and organized 

Required Skills/Abilities:  

  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints 

  • Understanding of GD&T 

  • Familiarity with CNC lathes and measuring equipment 

  • Strong focus on accuracy and quality 

  • Strong communication skills. 

  • Ability to hold tolerances as tight as +/-.0002 

Education and Experience: 

  • High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate) 

  • Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, NIMS, CNC Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades) 

  • At least 3 years of CNC Operation  

  • Experience on Nakamura-Tome/Miyano Lathes is a plus, but not required 

Physical Requirements: 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands and fingers, feel/reach with hands/arms, talk, and hear. 

The employee is occasionally required to bend and stop, push and pull, reach above shoulder level, kneel, squat, or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job to include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Understanding work order, blueprints, control plans, materials, specifications, drawings, reference planes, locations of surfaces, critical surfaces/edges, and machining parameters while interpreting geometric dimension and tolerances (GD&T)
  • Understanding work instructions ad zero/reference points
  • Understanding of basic math, geometry, and trigonometry
  • Positive and proactive attitude toward completing work orders
  • Willingness to learn and grow through Sun Hydraulics
  • Meeting commitments and obligations

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma/GED required
  • Technical college degree preferred
  • 2+ years' experience using production machinery
  • Experience working with a Mazak Star/Integrex or Swiss Lathes a plus

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of standing
  • Prolonged period of sitting
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds at times