Manufacturing Operator Jobs in Illinois
Manufacturing Operator jobs in Illinois are among the most active in the Midwest, concentrated in food and beverage processing, automotive components, and industrial equipment manufacturing, with openings at every level from entry-line to senior process technician. Chicago, Rockford, and Joliet are the primary hiring centers, where employers like Caterpillar, Abbott Laboratories, and Kraft Heinz maintain large production operations. The most in-demand specialties are CNC machine operation, quality control inspection, and automated assembly line work. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 17+ Manufacturing Operator jobs
About Summit:
As North America's largest privately held printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer, we specialize in delivering high-reliability, advanced technology PCBs across diverse sectors, including defense, aerospace, and high-performance commercial markets. At Summit Interconnect, we are dedicated to excellence through innovation, collaboration, and customer service.
Our commitment to quality and growth has been recognized through several prestigious awards. We have been honored on the Inc. 5000 list of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies for three consecutive years, reflecting our rapid revenue growth and resilience in the industry.
With a network of North American-based facilities, we continue to expand our PCB services, increase technical support, and add advanced new technology to our operations. Join our dynamic team, where your contributions matter, and professional growth is encouraged.
About the Role:
To support our growth, we are looking for Manufacturing Operators to join our team. Our operators are crucial in helping to ensure the quality of our products, efficiency of our operations, and customer satisfaction.
At Summit, a Manufacturing Operator helps make high-reliability printed circuit boards (PCBs) used in electronic products. Operators work with machines, materials, chemicals, tools, and inspection equipment to complete different steps in the manufacturing process. This is a hands-on manufacturing job: operators follow work instructions, operate equipment safely, check product quality, record production information, and keep their work area clean and organized.
Manufacturing experience is preferred but not required. Training is provided for the equipment and processes used in each work area, and operators may be cross-trained to work in more than one area. Candidates coming from other hands-on industries, such as automotive, electronics, warehouse, or general assembly, are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities:
- Load and unload materials from manufacturing equipment.
- Set up and operate machines used to make printed circuit boards.
- Follow work instructions, process requirements, and production schedules.
- Monitor equipment and process conditions during production.
- Measure and inspect parts to make sure they meet requirements.
- Accurately record production, inspection, and process information.
- Handle chemicals and materials using required safety equipment.
- Move product between manufacturing steps.
- Keep equipment and work areas clean and organized using 5S standards.
- Stop the process and ask for help when equipment, materials, or product do not look correct.
- Work with other operators, technicians, engineers, and supervisors.
- Follow all safety, quality, and environmental rules.
PCB manufacturing includes many different processes. Depending on your assigned area, you may work with equipment used for imaging and chemical processing (inner and outer layer processing), material preparation and lamination, CNC drilling and routing, solder mask and surface finish application, inspection and electrical test, or laboratory and process control. Training is provided for the equipment and processes used in each area.
Experience & Skills:
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- 3 to 5 years manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.
- Previous PCB manufacturing experience is a plus.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Basic computer, math, and measurement skills.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
- Ability to work safely around manufacturing equipment and chemicals.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- Willingness to learn new equipment and be cross-trained in different processes.
Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent.• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in printed circuit board (PCB) industry will be preferred.
Physical Requirements:
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for long period of time.• Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. on a regular basis.
Compensation/Benefits:
Summit offers a variety of health and benefit programs which include Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA plans, Hospital and Accident plans, Life Insurance, PTO, and Paid Holidays. Benefits are effective 1st day of the month following 30 days of hire
ITAR Compliance Notice
This position requires compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Under ITAR, candidates must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (e.g., "Green Card" holder), asylee, or refugee as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). Applicants who do not meet this requirement may not be eligible for employment in this position.
Summit Interconnect is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
All applicants must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
About Summit:
As North America's largest privately held printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer, we specialize in delivering high-reliability, advanced technology PCBs across diverse sectors, including defense, aerospace, and high-performance commercial markets. At Summit Interconnect, we are dedicated to excellence through innovation, collaboration, and customer service.
Our commitment to quality and growth has been recognized through several prestigious awards. We have been honored on the Inc. 5000 list of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies for three consecutive years, reflecting our rapid revenue growth and resilience in the industry.
With a network of North American-based facilities, we continue to expand our PCB services, increase technical support, and add advanced new technology to our operations. Join our dynamic team, where your contributions matter, and professional growth is encouraged.
About the Role:
To support our growth, we are looking for Manufacturing Operators to join our team. Our operators are crucial in helping to ensure the quality of our products, efficiency of our operations, and customer satisfaction.
At Summit, a Manufacturing Operator helps make high-reliability printed circuit boards (PCBs) used in electronic products. Operators work with machines, materials, chemicals, tools, and inspection equipment to complete different steps in the manufacturing process. This is a hands-on manufacturing job: operators follow work instructions, operate equipment safely, check product quality, record production information, and keep their work area clean and organized.
Manufacturing experience is preferred but not required. Training is provided for the equipment and processes used in each work area, and operators may be cross-trained to work in more than one area. Candidates coming from other hands-on industries, such as automotive, electronics, warehouse, or general assembly, are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities:
- Load and unload materials from manufacturing equipment.
- Set up and operate machines used to make printed circuit boards.
- Follow work instructions, process requirements, and production schedules.
- Monitor equipment and process conditions during production.
- Measure and inspect parts to make sure they meet requirements.
- Accurately record production, inspection, and process information.
- Handle chemicals and materials using required safety equipment.
- Move product between manufacturing steps.
- Keep equipment and work areas clean and organized using 5S standards.
- Stop the process and ask for help when equipment, materials, or product do not look correct.
- Work with other operators, technicians, engineers, and supervisors.
- Follow all safety, quality, and environmental rules.
PCB manufacturing includes many different processes. Depending on your assigned area, you may work with equipment used for imaging and chemical processing (inner and outer layer processing), material preparation and lamination, CNC drilling and routing, solder mask and surface finish application, inspection and electrical test, or laboratory and process control. Training is provided for the equipment and processes used in each area.
Experience & Skills:
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- 3 to 5 years manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.
- Previous PCB manufacturing experience is a plus.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Basic computer, math, and measurement skills.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
- Ability to work safely around manufacturing equipment and chemicals.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- Willingness to learn new equipment and be cross-trained in different processes.
Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent.• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in printed circuit board (PCB) industry will be preferred.
Physical Requirements:
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for long period of time.• Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. on a regular basis.
Compensation/Benefits:
Summit offers a variety of health and benefit programs which include Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA plans, Hospital and Accident plans, Life Insurance, PTO, and Paid Holidays. Benefits are effective 1st day of the month following 30 days of hire
ITAR Compliance Notice
This position requires compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Under ITAR, candidates must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (e.g., "Green Card" holder), asylee, or refugee as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). Applicants who do not meet this requirement may not be eligible for employment in this position.
Summit Interconnect is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
All applicants must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
See All 17 Manufacturing Operator Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Manufacturing Operator JobsManufacturing Operator Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Manufacturing Operator Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Chemicals & Materials
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in manufacturing operator jobs across Illinois.
- High school diploma or GED recognized by an Illinois accredited institution required
- Prior experience operating industrial machinery or production line equipment preferred
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, work orders, and process specifications
- Familiarity with safety standards including OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification
- Proficiency with basic quality control tools such as calipers, gauges, and inspection checklists
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds consistently
Manufacturing Operator Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a manufacturing operator in Illinois?
Most manufacturing operator roles in Illinois require a high school diploma or GED and on-the-job training provided by the employer. Illinois does not issue a statewide license specifically for manufacturing operators, but many employers require or prefer OSHA safety certification and forklift certification through an Illinois-approved provider. Community colleges like Elgin Community College and Moraine Valley Community College offer manufacturing technology programs that give candidates a strong foundation.
Which companies hire manufacturing operators in Illinois?
Employers hiring manufacturing operators in Illinois right now include Dyno Nobel, Molex, and Procedes, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Illinois's concentration of food processing, pharmaceutical, and heavy equipment manufacturers means consistent year-round demand across the Chicago metro, Rockford corridor, and the broader Illinois River valley.
Which Illinois cities have the most manufacturing operator jobs?
The cities with the most manufacturing operator openings in Illinois are Elgin, Wolf Lake, and Monee. Chicago and its surrounding suburbs anchor demand through a dense network of distribution, food processing, and pharmaceutical plants, while Rockford draws heavily from its legacy in aerospace components and precision machining, and Joliet benefits from major logistics and consumer goods facilities along the I-55 corridor.
Are there remote manufacturing operator jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're rare. Manufacturing operator work is inherently hands-on and tied to physical production lines, so fully remote positions are uncommon. About 25% of manufacturing operator openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, and those roles typically involve process monitoring, quality documentation, or scheduling functions rather than direct machine operation.
How can I get hired as a manufacturing operator in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a production associate or line technician role, which large Illinois manufacturers like Abbott, Caterpillar, and Ingredion regularly post as no-experience-required positions with paid on-the-job training. Completing a short manufacturing fundamentals certificate at an Illinois community college, earning an OSHA 10 card, or gaining forklift certification through an Illinois-certified trainer all give candidates a measurable edge over other applicants without a production background.
Where can I find and apply to manufacturing operator jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to manufacturing operator jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings across industries and experience levels. Search the available roles, find ones that match your background and preferred location, and apply directly to the employer.
See All 17 Manufacturing Operator Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Manufacturing Operator Jobs