This role is STARs-friendly: Skilled Through Alternative Routes.
73% STARs in role.
The Machine Operator runs and maintains production equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality packaging in a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment. This role oversees line performance, supports and trains team members, performs equipment changeovers and basic maintenance, monitors product quality, and maintains accurate documentation while keeping the work area clean, organized, and compliant with core procedures.
Responsibilities- Train associates and production workers to perform their required duties, including operating equipment safely and following core procedures.
- Maintain Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) at all times and ensure a clean, organized, and compliant production environment.
- Package the required quantity of cases and bags according to the production schedule and established standards.
- Ensure all personnel assigned to the lines keep production running smoothly and, when necessary, support coverage through breaks and lunch periods.
- Maintain and complete all required documents such as pre-op checklists, pack sheets, metal detector logs, lot numbers, and other production records accurately and on time.
- Review daily production requirements with the Production Lead and/or Supervisor and align line activities with schedule and priorities.
- Package products at specified weights with correct, legible lot numbers in accordance with core procedures and quality standards.
- Refer to set-up sheets for detailed production requirements and ensure all parameters are followed.
- Verify that all packaging materials—including film, boxes, pallets, and related items—are in acceptable condition and quality, and promptly report any problems or discrepancies to the Production Lead or Supervisor.
- Review daily needs for boxes, film, pallets, and other materials with the Production Lead and coordinate documentation of finished goods sent to the warehouse.
- Ensure all production and packaging equipment is in good working order and report issues that require attention.
- Replace parts as needed and review any additional parts or maintenance supply needs with the Production Manager and/or Production Supervisor.
- Safely operate all equipment associated with at least three production lines, including vertical form-fill machines, pouching machines, tapers, conveyors, case sealers, check weighers, and related machinery.
- Perform package and product changeovers on all appropriate equipment efficiently and in line with production requirements.
- Conduct preventive maintenance and minor repairs on assigned line equipment at the direction of the Supervisor to minimize downtime.
- Assure the quality of finished products by working closely with QA staff and using personal observations of production and packaging processes.
- Place product requiring rework into drums or other designated containers following established procedures.
- Read, verify, and ensure that products are properly labeled and meet all labeling requirements.
- Support general production, packaging, and material handling tasks as needed to maintain throughput and line efficiency.
- Follow all machine safety guidelines, troubleshoot basic mechanical issues, and escalate complex problems when necessary.
- Proven ability to operate and run production machinery, including packaging and filling equipment, in a manufacturing environment.
- Hands-on experience with machine operation and machine safety, including starting, stopping, and monitoring equipment during production.
- Background in general production, packaging, and packing in a high-volume environment.
- Ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues on production lines and perform minor adjustments to maintain performance.
- Understanding of and adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) in a regulated production setting.
- Capability to perform basic preventive maintenance and minor repairs on assigned line equipment under supervisory direction.
- Strong attention to detail when checking labels, lot numbers, weights, and packaging quality.
- Comfort working with multiple types of equipment such as vertical form-fill machines, pouching machines, tapers, conveyors, case sealers, and check weighers.
- Ability to maintain accurate documentation, including checklists, pack sheets, metal detector records, and lot tracking.
- Commitment to strict attendance and reliability to support consistent production schedules.
- Previous manufacturing or production experience in a GMP environment is preferred.
- Experience with packing machines and general machine operating in a food or consumer goods setting is an advantage.
- Familiarity with inspection processes, including visual checks and basic quality control procedures.
- Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn more advanced troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
- Interest in ongoing training and professional development, including potential PCQI certification.
- Ability to work collaboratively with production leads, supervisors, QA staff, and fellow operators.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple production lines and tasks simultaneously.
Employees benefit from a strong commitment to training and professional growth, including annual PCQI training and the opportunity to earn PCQI certification. A large training budget supports continuous learning and skill development, providing exposure to a wide variety of products and processes so work remains engaging and dynamic. The organization offers robust benefits, including health insurance and profit sharing contributions to retirement plans that are consistently generous. There is a strong focus on work-life balance and a family-oriented culture where leadership builds genuine relationships and people feel valued rather than treated as just a number. The company emphasizes job security, with a history of avoiding layoffs and operating independently of public markets, giving team members confidence in long-term stability.
Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a manufacturing and packaging environment that operates under strict Good Manufacturing Practices, with a focus on cleanliness, organization, and product safety. The Machine Operator works with production lines that include vertical form-fill machines, pouching machines, tapers, conveyors, case sealers, check weighers, and related equipment. The position follows a second-shift schedule, typically from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM, requiring consistent attendance and punctuality. The attendance policy is clearly defined: points are assigned for unexcused absences and for clocking in late or leaving early, and exceeding the allotted points during the contract period may result in termination. The environment is fast-paced and detail-oriented, with ongoing interaction with production leads, supervisors, and QA staff to ensure quality and efficiency. Safety procedures are strictly followed, and employees are expected to adhere to all equipment and facility guidelines while maintaining an orderly and hygienic work area.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Bolingbrook, IL.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $18.00 - $20.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Bolingbrook,IL.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Aug 12, 2026.
About Aerotek
Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.
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.
Posting ID: JP-006187632