Machine Operator (Finishing Line) - 3rd Shift, West

You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part the places where we live, work and play – all day, everyday.

Zekelman is a family of companies — 100% domestic manufacturers — with a legacy dating back to 1877. We’re proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development.

We believe in what we build and what we build, builds the world around us. Hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports and more.

Come build a career you believe in.

About the Role

As a Machine Operator at Wheatland Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries, in Rochelle, IL (West Building), this role plays a key part in setting up and operating high-speed equipment with robotic elements to form or cut steel to precise dimensions and specifications. This position supports safe, efficient production while contributing to quality standards and continuous improvement efforts. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, values safety and quality, and enjoys hands-on technical work.

Shift: 3rd Shift, 9pm-5am– West Building
Pay: $24/hour plus production incentive

What You’ll Do

• Observe safety procedures, including lockout/tagout requirements, to operate equipment efficiently and safely.
• Perform advanced setup and calibration of production equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Inspect materials before, during, and after production to identify quality issues.
• Record and report quality deficiencies to supervisors or the quality department.
• Maintain tooling and equipment required for job completion.
• Diagnose equipment and quality issues to minimize scrap and production delays.
• Perform housekeeping tasks to maintain clean and safe work areas.
• Complete production, changeover, and scrap-related reports accurately.
• Assist maintenance personnel with equipment repairs and preventive maintenance activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production goals.

Who You Are

• Manufacturing or related industrial experience, preferred.
• Ability to read and write English and maintain production records and logs.
• Ability to perform basic math, including addition, subtraction, decimals, and fractions.
• Experience using measuring devices such as tape measures, micrometers, and calipers.
• Ability to operate forklifts, cranes, and other equipment required for the role.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to work independently.
• Ability to maintain regular, full-time, predictable onsite attendance per the posted schedule.
• Commitment to leading and promoting safe work practices in compliance with regulatory agencies and company policy.

Physical Abilities

• Move objects and use abdominal and lower back muscles to provide sustained physical support without fatigue.
• Perform constant movement and repetitive use of limbs requiring manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina.
• Remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Lift, climb, bend, stoop, push, and pull as required.
• Lift up to 60 pounds.
• Stand for 10–12 hours per shift.
• Perform work in a plant or manufacturing environment.
• Meet additional physical requirements as needed for the role.

What You’ll Get

Wheatland Tube at Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental coverage. In addition, employees have access to a strong total rewards package designed to support long-term success:

• Competitive Compensation
• Bonus Plan & Profit-Sharing Opportunities
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Comprehensive Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Paid Vacation & Holidays
• Employee Loyalty Awards

Compensation & Benefits

Below is the expected base hourly range for this position. This is a good-faith estimate, and offers will be determined based on experience, education, skill set, and interview performance.

Base Hourly Range: $24.00/hour plus production incentive

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits. In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, immediate vesting, and much more.

M/F/D/V

We are Zekelman Industries.

We manufacture superior quality tubular and related products, and provide outstanding service for our valued customers.

We seek to continuously advance the skills and opportunities of our employees, utilizing the latest technology and management tools available to consistently increase profitability and the enterprise value of Zekelman Industries and of our customers.