Machine Operator | 1st Shift

Title: Lead Machine Operator

Location: Addison, IL

Overview:

Sterling has helped build careers for thousands for professionals like yourself. Our expert recruiters support you at every step in the process and as a Best of Staffing company, Sterling provides exciting work with exceptional employers across the U.S.

Hire Type: Direct Hire

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision

Pay: $21-25/hr

Job Summary:

• We are seeking an experienced Master Machine Operator (Lead) to support operations in a food manufacturing environment. This role serves as a technical lead on the production floor—someone who can train on multiple machines, step in to run equipment as needed, and assist with troubleshooting across all production lines. This is a hands-on lead role and does not include direct supervisory responsibility, but the individual will be trained to oversee line operations and act as a key resource for operators and leadership.
  
  

Job Duties:

• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot production machinery across multiple lines
• Serve as a lead technical resource for machine operators during daily operations
• Step in to run equipment during absences, downtime, or high-volume production periods
• Assist with machine changeovers, startups, shutdowns, and minor adjustments
• Identify and resolve mechanical or process issues to minimize downtime
• Support training of operators on proper machine operation and safety practices
• Ensure compliance with food safety, GMP, and sanitation standards
• Communicate equipment issues, trends, and improvement opportunities to leadership
  
  

Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a Machine Operator in a food manufacturing environment
• Spanish-speaking required (bilingual communication on the production floor)
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to learn and operate multiple types of production equipment
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment
• Strong attention to safety, quality, and process consistency
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience operating HPP (High-Pressure Processing) machines strongly preferred
• Lead or senior operator experience supporting multiple production lines
• Familiarity with food safety standards (GMPs, HACCP, sanitation procedures)
  

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.