Machine OperatorThis role operates in a metal processing facility that takes large coils of stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and steel and cuts them into smaller coils or large sheets. You will initially support the production line as a packer at the end of the machine, packaging finished product and learning the full machine operation, with a clear path to progress into a titled Machine Operator role. You will work with overhead cranes, forklifts, and cutting machinery in a unionized environment, following safety standards and production procedures to ensure high-quality output.ResponsibilitiesOperate and support metal processing equipment that cuts large coils of metal into smaller coils or large sheets according to production specifications.Begin on the production line as a packer, placing finished metal products onto crates so they can be safely moved and loaded with a forklift.Assist with machine operation while learning setup, controls, and adjustments under the guidance of experienced operators.Use an overhead crane to move and load large metal coils into machines and to transfer finished products as needed.Operate a forklift to move materials, finished products, and crates throughout the facility in a safe and efficient manner.Perform basic inspection and quality checks on metal products using tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, tape measures, and other hand tools to verify dimensions and quality.Follow production work orders, manual instructions, and, where applicable, blueprints to ensure accurate cutting and packaging of metal products.Assist with basic troubleshooting of equipment issues and communicate problems to the appropriate personnel to minimize downtime.Support general labor tasks on the production floor, including organizing materials, maintaining a clean work area, and assisting coworkers as needed.Participate in crating activities in the carpentry area, helping build and prepare crates for shipping metal coils and sheets.Adhere to all safety procedures, including safe use of overhead cranes, forklifts, and other machinery, and follow guidelines that prohibit lifting more than 50 pounds without assistance.Work required overtime when needed, including Saturdays, in accordance with union guidelines and advance notice requirements.Essential SkillsPrevious experience working in a manufacturing environment.Willingness and ability to work required overtime, including Saturdays when needed.Comfort working in a metal manufacturing environment with large metal coils and heavy industrial equipment.Basic English communication skills; bilingual candidates are welcome.Ability to safely perform physical tasks on the production floor, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 pounds.Readiness to learn operation of forklifts, overhead cranes, and metal processing machinery.Attention to detail when measuring, inspecting, and packaging metal products.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with machine setup in a manufacturing or metal processing environment.Previous experience working with metal coils in production or warehousing.Familiarity with unionized work environments and union work rules.Experience with machine operation, including press brake, shear, slitter, or similar metalworking equipment.Ability to read and interpret blueprints, gauges, and manual instructions.Experience using measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, tape measures, and other hand tools.Experience in general labor, inspection, or troubleshooting on a production line.Why Work Here?You will join a stable, unionized operation that invests in training and cross-training on forklifts, overhead cranes, and complex metal processing machinery.
The role offers a clear growth path: you start in a packer position while learning machine operation and can apply for the titled Machine Operator role after 90 days, which comes with a higher pay rate. In addition to competitive hourly pay, you receive a gain share bonus every two weeks based on your machine's productivity, a quarterly attendance bonus for consistent presence, and a quarterly safety bonus for maintaining safe work practices. The culture emphasizes teamwork, safety, and skill development, providing opportunities to build a long-term career in metal manufacturing while being rewarded for performance, reliability, and safe work habits.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Northbrook, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.56 - $24.56/hr.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment.
Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Northbrook, IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.