at Aerotek in
Itasca, Illinois, United States Job Description Job Title:
Machine Operator Job Description This role requires a reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operator to set up and operate manual lathes in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will machine metal components to precise specifications, use precision measuring tools to verify quality, and follow established standards and safety practices to support efficient and accurate production. Responsibilities + Set up and operate manual lathes to machine parts according to engineering drawings and specifications. + Read, interpret, and execute work instructions, blueprints, and technical documentation to ensure accurate machining. + Measure and inspect finished products using calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and other precision measuring tools. + Follow all manufacturing standards, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety practices at all times. + Safely operate hoists and cranes to move raw materials, workpieces, and finished components as needed. + Maintain clear and consistent communication with the production team to support workflow and overall efficiency. + Ensure high-quality output with a strong focus on accuracy, tight tolerances, and continuous improvement. + Use basic math skills to perform measurements, conversions, and tolerance checks during setup and inspection. + Utilize hand tools and other equipment to assist with machining, assembly, and general machine operation tasks. + Support production activities involving manual machining, metals machine operating, and related general labor duties. + Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety and housekeeping standards. + Stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 pounds as part of daily machine operation and material handling. Essential Skills + At least 2+ years of machine operation experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment. + Hands-on experience operating manual lathes and performing manual machining on metal components. + Proficiency with precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures. + Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and technical documentation. + Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machine operation and machining processes. + Basic math skills, including measurements, conversions, and working with tolerances. + Ability to follow manufacturing standards, SOPs, and safety procedures consistently. + Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain high quality standards in a production setting. + Capability to safely operate hoists and cranes for moving materials and components. + Comfort with standing for approximately 75% of the workday and lifting up to 40 pounds. + Effective communication skills to coordinate with production team members and support workflow. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience with metals machine operating and general machining in a machine shop environment. + Experience in production work, assembly, or general labor related to machining operations. + Familiarity with CNC lathes and CNC equipment, including Haas machines, is a plus. + Experience using a variety of hand tools in a manufacturing or machine shop setting. + Ability to contribute ideas for process improvements and continuous improvement initiatives. + Comfort working independently in an assigned work area while collaborating with a broader team as needed. Why Work Here? You will join a family-owned company that values flexibility, long-term stability, and employee well-being. Team members enjoy their own dedicated working space they can personalize, reflecting a sense of ownership and pride in their work area. The company offers quarterly bonuses based on shop performance, yearly company bonuses tied to overall results, and discretionary bonuses for exceptional performance or innovative ideas. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, annual boot reimbursement up to a set amount, and a prescription safety glasses benefit when needed. All tools are provided, with the option to bring your own if preferred, and paid lunches are offered as an added perk. The organization fosters a supportive culture where the average employee tenure exceeds 15 years, demonstrating strong commitment to work-life balance and long-term career growth. Work Environment The role is based in a clean, traditional machine shop environment working alongside laborers and other machinists. You will have your own working space that you can organize and personalize, giving you a sense of ownership over your area. The shop uses manual lathes, measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers, hand tools, hoists, and cranes to support metals machining and production work. This is a first-shift position, typically running from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays, with work that involves standing for much of the day and handling materials up to 40 pounds. The environment emphasizes safety, organization, and collaboration while maintaining an old-school machine shop feel. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Itasca, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $19.00
- $23.00/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 & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account ( HSA )
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave ( PTO , Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Itasca,IL.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 28, 2026. About Aerotek We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry
- from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges.
Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employm To view full details and how to apply, please login or create a Job Seeker account