Machine Operator

Job Title:

Machine Operator Job Description The Machine Operator sets up, operates, and monitors a variety of production equipment to support an efficient, high-quality food manufacturing process. This role performs machine changeovers, routine adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maintain optimal line performance while ensuring all finished products meet strict quality and safety standards. The Machine Operator also coordinates with the line crew and material handlers, accurately documents production activities, and follows all safety, quality, and sanitation requirements. Responsibilities Set up, operate, and monitor production machinery or equipment. Perform machine changeovers to support different products and packaging formats as required by the production schedule. Make routine machine adjustments and perform basic troubleshooting to maintain optimal line efficiency and minimize downtime. Ensure daily on-time line starts and direct the line crew to complete production runs efficiently and safely. Verify product quality by checking weights, codes, seal integrity, and overall appearance to ensure finished goods meet all specifications. Order product and packaging materials from material handlers in a timely manner to support continuous production flow. Report all production activities into the database accurately and in a timely manner to maintain complete production records. Complete all line paperwork correctly and on time, including production logs and quality documentation. Follow all safety, quality, and sanitation requirements at all times while operating equipment and working on the production floor. Essential Skills Minimum 2 years of experience operating manufacturing equipment, preferably in a production or packaging environment. Hands-on machine operation experience, including setup, adjustment, and basic troubleshooting. Experience as a machine operator, with the ability to run fillers, coders, scales, case sealers, tape machines, or similar equipment. Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with production machinery and hand tools. Experience in general production, packaging, and inspection activities. High attention to detail with a strong commitment to product quality and accuracy. Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP, and basic food safety principles. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and accurately complete production and quality documentation. Flexibility to work the assigned schedule with the possibility of overtime as needed. Ability to work safely and consistently follow all safety, quality, and sanitation requirements. Additional Skills & Qualifications Previous experience in dry powder food packaging is strongly preferred. Prior experience in the food industry or a food manufacturing environment is a plus. Ability to work effectively as part of a line crew in a fast-paced production setting. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to respond quickly to equipment or production issues. Reliable attendance and punctuality to support on-time line starts and consistent production. Why Work Here? You will work in a clean, temperature-controlled food manufacturing environment that prioritizes safety, product quality, and consistent processes. The operation offers stable full-time schedules with the potential for overtime, providing opportunities to grow your skills on a variety of production machines and equipment. You will be part of a collaborative production team where attention to detail, reliability, and continuous improvement are valued and recognized. Work Environment This role is based in a clean, temperature-controlled food manufacturing facility that follows strict safety, quality, and sanitation standards. Multiple full-time shift options are available. The environment involves working around production machinery such as fillers, coders, scales, case sealers, and tape machines. Certain areas require the use of protective attire to maintain food safety and sanitation. The facility operates at a steady pace, and the role may require standing for extended periods, performing repetitive tasks, and working occasional overtime based on production needs. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Waukegan, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $25.00/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 Waukegan,IL.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 22, 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 employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.