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Wood Processor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Working with multiple manufacturing processes, including metal, plastic, and wood fabrication, digital printing, screen printing, and more as needed * Work closely with all internal departments and ...

Working with multiple manufacturing processes, including metal, plastic, and wood fabrication, digital printing, screen printing, and more as needed * Work closely with all internal departments and ...

NPD Senior Engineer - Mechanical Design

Lake Forest, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

... process best-in-class Power Fastening Systems for the global construction market. Our highly differentiated tools are specified to be used in a variety of applications including wood framing, wood ...

NPD Senior Engineer - Mechanical Design

Lake Forest, IL ยท On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

... process best-in-class Power Fastening Systems for the global construction market. Our highly differentiated tools are specified to be used in a variety of applications including wood framing, wood ...

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Construction Superintendent

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $250K/yr

You should have a strong understanding of construction operations and processes. It is important to ... Wood-frame, steel-frame, tilt/precast, CMU, PEMB, etc. project experience. * Assistant or Lead ...

Showing results 41-60

Wood Processor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do wood processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for wood processor in Chicago, IL is $17.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wood processor?

To thrive as a Wood Processor, you need strong mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and a basic understanding of forestry or wood processing operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sawmill equipment, chainsaws, forklifts, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help ensure safe and efficient workflow. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining productivity, minimizing accidents, and delivering high-quality processed wood products.

What is the difference between Wood Processor vs Lumber Yard Worker?

AspectWood ProcessorLumber Yard Worker
Primary DutiesCutting, shaping, and preparing wood products for manufacturing or saleLoading, unloading, and organizing lumber in a yard
Work EnvironmentFactories, sawmills, or processing plantsLumber yards, construction sites, retail stores
CredentialsBasic technical skills, safety trainingPhysical fitness, safety awareness
Industry UsageManufacturing, woodworkingConstruction, retail lumber sales

The main difference is that a Wood Processor focuses on cutting and shaping wood in a manufacturing setting, while a Lumber Yard Worker handles the logistics and organization of lumber in a yard. Both roles require safety training but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What is a wood processor?

Wood processors are specialized machines or operators that handle the cutting, splitting, and processing of logs into usable firewood or timber products. They are commonly used in forestry, logging operations, and firewood businesses to increase efficiency and safety in wood processing. Wood processors automate many labor-intensive tasks, allowing for faster production and reduced physical strain on workers.

What are some common challenges faced by wood processors on the job, and how can they be managed?

Wood processors often encounter challenges such as operating heavy machinery safely, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the quality and consistency of processed wood. Working in environments that can be noisy or require physical stamina is also common. To manage these challenges, it's important to follow safety protocols, participate in regular equipment maintenance, and communicate closely with team members to coordinate workflow efficiently. Ongoing training and adherence to safety standards can help minimize risks and improve productivity.
Infographic showing various Wood Processor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,872 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Injection Molding Process Technician (2nd Shift)

MATRIX PLASTIC PRODUCTS, INC

Bloomingdale, IL โ€ข On-site

$30.90 - $39.30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

Matrix Plastic Products is a quality-driven custom manufacturer of ultra-precise plastic components and subassemblies for medical devices and other mission-critical applications. Our specialties are plastic injection molding, mold making, and assembly. Founded in 1978, we are a company that continues to grow rapidly, offering a generous benefits package, rewarding career challenges, and a collaborative team environment for motivated and conscientious individuals who enjoy working together to ensure products of exceptional quality.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Mold setups and teardowns, machine startups/shutdowns, assist with maintenance duties, and troubleshoot molding processes within established and monitored parameters.
  • Document process settings and assist with approved process changes.
  • Minimize production scrap rates and downtime through efficient troubleshooting and maintenance efforts.
  • Assist in training operators and molding personnel on standard operating procedures.
  • Assist with automation integration and auxiliary equipment setup.
  • Support engineering and maintenance teams during equipment & process troubleshooting.
  • Identify opportunities to improve process consistency and efficiency,
  • Assist in continuous improvement initiatives throughout the department.
Requirements:

Required Qualifications:

  • 2-5 years of experience in plastic injection molding setup, processing and troubleshooting.
  • General understanding of scientific molding concepts and injection mold design.
  • Demonstrate mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow company procedures and work instructions.
  • Implement, explain, and defend molding process adjustments
  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office – Word, Excel
  • Strong communication skills (both verbal and written).
  • Reliability and a strong work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with robots, EOAT, and automation equipment.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and time management skills.
  • Strong math skills and high attention to detail.
  • Logical and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to work with limited direction
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
  • Accident insurance
  • Disability insurance

Physical Demands / Working Conditions:

  • Safety: Must be aware of and adhere to all company safety policies
  • Hands-on Equipment Interaction: Must be able to frequently position self to set up, operate, and troubleshoot injection molding machines, robots, and auxiliary equipment.
  • Facility Mobility: Ability to move throughout the manufacturing facility to effectively support production operations across all shifts.
  • Technical Dexterity: Requires the mechanical aptitude to manipulate tools and perform precise adjustments on plastic injection molds and related machinery.
  • Communication & Mentoring: Must be able to accurately exchange technical information and provide clear instructions when training or mentoring molding personnel.
  • Industrial Environment: Work is performed in a manufacturing environment, which includes regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and typical machine shop hazards

Employment Verification:

Matrix participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.


EOE, including disability/vets


Location:

The company is moving from Wood Dale, IL to Bloomingdale, IL (100%) by the end of 2026.


Pay:

$30.90 - $39.30 per hour (Depending on experience)

Schedule:

3:30PM - 12AM (Mon-Fri, and occasional weekend opportunities)