Machine Operator I

AFC Materials Group; Lake in the Hills (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with company match

Tuition reimbursement

Generous PTO and holidays

Safety shoe reimbursement

Gym reimbursement

Referral bonus program

Job summary

AFC Materials Group is hiring a Coating Machine Operator to join our Lake in the Hills, IL team. This hands-on role focuses on operating coating towers and supporting two key areas of our coating process for high-performance materials.

You will train on day shift initially, then transition to one of the upcoming 12-hour day/night schedules. We offer hands-on training, strong benefits, and a collaborative, safety‑driven culture.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a machine operator.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs (100 lbs with team).
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn ERP systems.
• Willingness to obtain forklift certification.

Responsibilities

• Operate coating towers or equipment under supervision.
• Assist with setup, operation, and shutdown per procedures.
• Prepare and qualify coating mixes per guidelines.
• Monitor quality and adjust processes as needed.
• Complete run sheets and inventory transactions in ERP.

Skills

Machine operator experience

Basic computer skills

Forklift certification willingness

Team-oriented

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Syteline ERP

Job description

Machine Operator I – All shifts!

Location:

Lake in the Hills, IL

Compensation:

$19.00 - $24.00/ hour + Shift Differential if applicable

Schedule:

Current Shifts:

• 1st Shift: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• 2nd Shift: Monday–Friday, 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM
• 3rd Shift: Sunday–Thursday, 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM

Upcoming Schedule Transition:

We are in the process of transitioning to a 12-hour day/night shift schedule by the end of the year. Employees in this role will need to be able to transition to one of the following schedules:

• Day Shift: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM (12-hour shifts, 3 days per week)
• Night Shift: 7:00 PM – 7:30 AM (12-hour shifts, 3 days per week)

Training Requirement:

All new hires are required to train on day shift for the first 30 days of employment before transitioning to their assigned schedule.

Why Join AFC?

• Grow With Us: Hands-on training program plus tuition reimbursement opportunities.
• Health & Financial Security: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, a 401(k) with company match, and a $2,000 referral bonus program.
• Time Off & Wellness: Generous PTO, 10 paid holidays, plus annual safety shoe and gym reimbursement.
• Team & Culture: Rewards & Recognition program and social events throughout the year — hard work and team spirit don't go unnoticed here.

Overview

AFC Materials Group is hiring a Coating Machine Operator to join our team. This is a hands-on production role where you’ll be trained on two key areas of our coating process – working with high-performance materials used in advanced industrial applications. If you're mechanically inclined, dependable, and thrive in a team-driven environment, this could be a great fit.

What You’ll Do

• Operate Vertical PTFE coating towers or Horizontal coating equipment under supervision
• Assist with equipment setup, operation, and shutdown following established procedures
• Prepare and qualify coating mixes per established guidelines
• Run designated vertical towers or support horizontal front-end/back-end operations
• Monitor product quality and make necessary process adjustments
• Accurately complete run sheets and stock cards, documenting process parameters and quality issues
• Perform basic ERP (Syteline) inventory and job transactions

What You’ll Bring

• High school diploma or GED
• 2 Years Minimum Experience as a Machine Operator
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (or team-lift up to 100 lbs)
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn internal systems
• Willingness to obtain forklift certification

About Us

AFC Materials Group, headquartered in Lake in the Hills, IL, is a global leader in high-temperature and non-stick composite solutions. Since 1988, we’ve partnered with OEMs, distributors, and end users to solve complex production challenges through expert coating, converting, and fabrication capabilities. For over 30 years, we've built a reputation on innovation, reliability, and a strong commitment to our people and customers. Join a team where growth, quality, and forward thinking are at the core of what we do.

AFC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets

AFC is a Drug-free workplace