Machine Operations Assistant (Operator Trainee)

International Paper (Des Plaines); Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 56,482,000 - 59,237,000; Full time

Job summary

International Paper (Des Plaines) is seeking a Machine Operations Assistant (Operator Trainee) for the third shift at 100 E. Oakton St, Des Plaines, IL.

You will support Machine Operators with equipment setup, changeovers, and quality checks while keeping the line clean and running safely. This hands-on role emphasizes learning on the floor, meeting production targets, and advancing from Helper to qualified Operator through on-the-job training.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of safe work practices.
• Basic math skills and comfort with measurements (read a tape measure).
• Keen attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to read, review, and understand work orders.
• Team-first mindset and strong communication.
• Mechanical aptitude is a plus.
• Heavy material handling experience preferred.
• Forklift licensed preferred.
• Packaging experience preferred.
• High school diploma or GED required.

Responsibilities

• Support Machine Operators with equipment operation and changeovers.
• Follow work orders and machine instructions accurately.
• Perform routine quality checks and document results.
• Keep machines and surrounding areas clean; complete housekeeping tasks.
• Work safely, identify hazards and follow procedures.
• Help monitor and reduce scrap/waste to meet production goals.
• Demonstrate reliable attendance and commitment to full 8–12-hour shifts.

Skills

Safe work practices

Math & measurement

Attention to detail

Reading work orders

Teamwork & communication

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift operation

Packaging experience

Job description

Machine Operations Assistant (Operator Trainee)Picture this: you arrive at our Des Plaines facility for your third-shift start, step onto the production floor, and partner with an experienced Machine Operator. Throughout the shift, you’ll help set up, feed, and monitor equipment, perform quality checks, keep the area spotless, and track waste so we can hit production targets. You’ll learn the machines from the ground up and build the skills to qualify as an Operator.Pay, Schedule, and LocationPay: $19.52 per hour plus $0.26/hour shift differentialCategory/Shift: Hourly, Full-Time — 3rd Shift, 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (shifts may run 8–12 hours)Worksite: 100 E. Oakton St, Des Plaines, IL 60018What You’ll DoSupport Machine Operators with equipment operation and changeoversFollow work orders and machine instructions accuratelyPerform routine quality checks and document resultsKeep machines and surrounding areas clean; complete housekeeping tasksWork safely, every time—identify hazards and follow proceduresHelp monitor and reduce scrap/waste to meet production goalsDemonstrate reliable attendance and a commitment to full 8–12-hour shiftsHow You’ll GrowYou’ll receive hands-on training and continued learning opportunities designed to help you progress from Helper to qualified Operator.What You BringSolid understanding of safe work practicesBasic math skills and comfort with measurements (able to read a tape measure)Keen attention to detail and qualityAbility to read, review, and understand work ordersTeam-first mindset and strong communicationMechanical aptitude is a plusPreferred Background/ProficienciesHeavy material handling experienceForklift licensedPackaging experienceHigh School diploma or GEDExperience in a manufacturing environmentIf you enjoy hands-on, physical work, thrive on variety, and adapt quickly, we’d love to hear from you—apply now!