Machine Operator - Weekday Evening Shift

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 Zekelman Industries, located in Rochelle, IL, you will play a key role in ensuring efficient operation of high-speed, robotics-integrated equipment used to form or cut steel to precise specifications. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, enjoys hands-on problem-solving, and is highly detail-oriented.

Shift: Monday - Thursday 4pm -2am *Training will be conducted during weekdays, 1st shift hours. Transition to the weekend morning shift is scheduled for April 2026*
Pay: $24/hour production incentive bonus

What You’ll Do

• Follow all safety and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures to ensure safe and efficient equipment operation.
• Perform advanced setup and calibration of high-speed and robotic equipment.
• Inspect materials before, during, and after production to identify quality issues.
• Record and report identified quality deficiencies to supervisors or the quality department.
• Maintain equipment tooling and necessary tools to support accurate and timely production.
• Diagnose equipment and quality issues while minimizing scrap, downtime, and delays.
• Perform housekeeping tasks to maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
• Complete production reports, changeover documentation, and scrap records.
• Assist maintenance teams with equipment repairs and preventative maintenance activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, productivity, and quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Who You Are

• Ability to read, write, and maintain accurate production records and logs.
• Manufacturing or industrial experience preferred.
• Ability to perform basic math, including addition, subtraction, decimals, and fractions.
• Experience using measuring tools such as tape measures, micrometers, and calipers.
• Ability to operate forklifts, cranes, and other equipment required for job tasks.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to work independently.
• Consistent, full-time, onsite attendance in accordance with the posted schedule.
• Commitment to promoting health and safety practices in compliance with company policy and regulatory standards.

Physical Abilities

• Ability to move objects and use core muscles for extended periods without fatigue.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for several hours.
• Ability to lift, climb, bend, stoop, push, and pull.
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs.
• Ability to stand for 10–12 hours.
• Ability to work in a plant/manufacturing environment.
• Additional physical requirements as needed for the role.

What You’ll Get

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental options. In addition, employees benefit from a tuition assistance program, bonus plan, 401(k) with a generous company match, loyalty awards, and more:

• 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 vary based on experience, education, skills, and interview performance.

Base Hourly Range:
$24.00/hour production incentive bonus

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.