Machine operator jobs in North Chicago, IL - 2,432 jobs

Job Title: Machine Operator Pay Range: $24.90/hr + shift differential for 2nd & 3rd shifts. Duration: Full Time Hire Shift times: Can Select shift to work 1st 6:30am - 3:00pm 2nd 2:30pm - 11:00pm 3rd 10:30pm - 7:00am Job Description: Direct hires Eligible for 5% of base for annual incentive bonus Hiring bonus of $1,000.00 Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills. Decisive and proactive. Team player; adapts to change. English proficiency. Potential Start Date: Beginning/Mid-April The Mechanically Trained Operator (MTO) is a critical role within the production team, designed to bridge operational efficiency and mechanical aptitude in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Operations Lead, the MTO will operate, maintain, and make minor adjustments to high-speed production equipment to minimize downtime, maximize productivity, and ensure the highest quality standards are met. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate with both production and maintenance teams. Roles and Responsibilities: Operational Efficiency Operate high-speed packaging and production equipment to meet daily targets. Assist in equipment setup, changeovers, and adjustments to minimize downtime and ensure smooth workflows. Perform minor mechanical maintenance, including clearing jams, tightening fasteners, and replacing simple components, such as belts or seals. Support efforts to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by minimizing stoppages and addressing inefficiencies. Mechanical Support Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical issues, escalating more complex problems to the Maintenance Technician or Maintenance Team Lead. Conduct routine equipment inspections, lubrication, and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and reliability. Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure timely repairs and equipment upkeep. Team Support & Employee Engagement Work closely with the Packaging & Bakery Lead to address production and equipment challenges. Provide feedback on equipment performance and suggest improvements to enhance efficiency. Foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration with production and maintenance teams. Documentation & Reporting Accurately record downtime, repairs, and maintenance activities in reporting systems. Track and report production throughput, material usage, and waste to maintain data integrity and support operational efficiency. Health, Safety & Compliance Adhere to OSHA, STATE, GMP, SQF, and HACCP standards, ensuring a safe and compliant work environment. Actively participate in safety initiatives and report any potential hazards or concerns. Day to Day Essential Work: Operate and monitor equipment, making adjustments to maintain production flow and product quality. Collaborate with team members to resolve issues and maintain seamless operations. Perform minor mechanical adjustments and report equipment status during shift huddles. Occasional Work: Assist with developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for equipment operation and maintenance tasks. Participate in Kaizen events to identify and implement opportunities for process and equipment improvement, driving efficiency and cost savings. Conduct 5 Whys analyses and other problem-solving methodologies to determine the root cause of recurring equipment issues and implement corrective actions. Participate in cross-functional projects aimed at improving overall plant performance, including energy efficiency and waste reduction initiatives. Value added work: Actively contribute to a Zero Loss Mindset by identifying and eliminating equipment inefficiencies. Provide insights for process improvements and equipment optimization to drive continuous improvement Key performance indicators (KPIS): Maximized Equipment Uptime: Ensure equipment operates at peak efficiency with minimal downtime. Safety and Food Safety Compliance: Adhere to all OSHA, STATE, GMP, SQF, and HACCP standards. Production Efficiency: Consistently meet or exceed production targets while minimizing waste. Operational Reliability: Proactively address equipment issues to maintain continuous production flow. Continuous Improvement: Support initiatives that enhance process efficiency and reduce waste, preforming costs Educational & Experience Requirements Experience: 1-2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in speed packaging. Education: High school diploma or GED required. Technical training in industrial mechanics is a plus. Language: Proficiency in English both in written and oral communication Skills: Basic knowledge of mechanical systems, including gears, bearings, and sprockets. Proficiency with tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, calipers, and measuring tools. Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with CMMS systems and production reporting tools is a plus. Considered A Plus Bilingual English & Spanish. Working Conditions and Physical Requirements: Engagement with employees in the plant is required but some work will be in an office environment. 9 hours shift, some weekend shifts. Required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl Regularly lift and/or move up to 10lbs, frequently lift and/or move up to 25lbs, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50lbs Exposure to potential hazards owing to the nature and variety of work, including compressed air lines, grinding, cutting, and welding equipment Exposure to heat, cold, confined spaces, noise, greases, oils, and dust. “Russell Tobin offers eligible employees comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), supplemental coverage (accident insurance, critical illness insurance and hospital indemnity), a 401(k)-retirement savings, life & disability insurance, an employee assistance program, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, and employee discounts with some preferred vendors.”