Machine Operator

Kelly Services; Niles (IL); On-site; USD 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelly Services in Niles, IL is seeking a Machine Operator to safely operate, monitor, and maintain production equipment across Pre-Whip, Liquid, and Palletizer stations in a fast-paced food manufacturing setting.

The role offers weekend and second shift opportunities with hourly pay. You will contribute to product quality, process efficiency, GMP compliance, and cross-functional teamwork on the production floor.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Previous manufacturing or production experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, monitor, and conduct changeovers on Pre-Whip, Liquid, and Palletizer equipment.
• Ensure production equipment is ready and operational for timely start-ups and continued operation.
• Make process adjustments to maintain product flow, correct weights, mix integrity, and packaging quality.
• Perform basic troubleshooting to reduce downtime and elevate technical issues as needed.
• Operate date coding equipment and verify that codes are accurate and legible on finished products and cases.
• Conduct routine process control and quality checks to prevent out-of-spec product.
• Complete equipment inspections, mix sheets, palletizing records, and production documentation accurately.
• Follow GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), food safety, quality, and plant safety policies at all times.

Job description

Machine Operator

Location: Niles, IL

Shift and Pay Rates:

• Weekend: Fri/Saty/Sun: 5:00am - 6:30pm | $21.55 per hour
  
• 2nd shift: Mon-Thur: 4:00pm - 2:30am | $21.00 per hour

As a Machine Operator, you will safely operate, monitor, and maintain production equipment across Pre-Whip, Liquid, and Palletizer stations. This hands-on, multi-skilled position ensures consistent product quality, operational efficiency, and compliance with all food safety regulations. You'll support cross-coverage and operational excellence across the production floor.

What It's Like to Work Here

You'll join a fast-paced manufacturing environment driven by structure, discipline, and continuous improvement-balanced with teamwork and a supportive, people-centered culture. Plant conditions may include temperature changes, noise, and a dynamic pace, but there are many opportunities for growth and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, monitor, and conduct changeovers on Pre-Whip, Liquid, and Palletizer equipment.
  
• Ensure production equipment is ready and operational for timely start-ups and continued operation.
  
• Make process adjustments to maintain product flow, correct weights, mix integrity, and packaging quality.
  
• Perform basic troubleshooting to reduce downtime and elevate technical issues as needed.
  
• Operate date coding equipment and verify that codes are accurate and legible on finished products and cases.
  
• Conduct routine process control and quality checks to prevent out-of-spec product.
  
• Complete equipment inspections, mix sheets, palletizing records, and production documentation accurately.
  
• Follow GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), food safety, quality, and plant safety policies at all times.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
  
• Previous manufacturing or production experience strongly preferred.
  
• Ability to operate and monitor production machinery.
  
• Basic troubleshooting and mechanical skills.
  
• Attention to detail for maintaining accurate documentation and records.
  
• Comfortable working in varying conditions (cold, heat, humidity, noise).
  
• Flexibility to support cross-functional tasks and schedules.
  
• Able to work in a physically demanding environment (standing, bending, lifting).