Paint Machine Operator - Multiple Shifts

Mallard Manufacturing; Sterling (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Health Savings Account contributions

Company-paid life insurance

Short-term disability coverage

Paid parental leave

Employee Assistance Program

Tuition reimbursement

Wellness programs

Job summary

Mallard Manufacturing, a MacLean-Fogg Company, is seeking a Paint Machine Operator at our Sterling, Illinois facility. You will independently set up production equipment, perform detailed inspections, and troubleshoot routine production issues to keep operations safe, efficient, and high‑quality.

The role requires reading blueprints, calibrating tooling, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives such as 5S.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of prior machine operator experience.
• Demonstrated ability to perform machine setups independently.
• Strong blueprint reading and technical interpretation skills.
• Proficiency with precision measurement tools.
• No formal education requirement.

Responsibilities

• Perform complete machine setups, including tooling changes, calibration, and adjustments.
• Conduct first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measurement equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve routine production issues independently, escalating more complex problems when needed.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications.
• Recommend and support process improvements that enhance safety, efficiency, or quality, including continuous improvement and 5S initiatives.
• Accurately document production data, downtime, and corrective actions, and support preventive maintenance by identifying equipment wear, damage, or recurring problems.
• Provide informal guidance to less experienced operators and collaborate with quality and maintenance teams to support smooth production.
• Maintain machine cleanliness and contribute to daily equipment care.

Tools

Precision measurement tools

Job description

Job Summary

Mallard Manufacturing, a MacLean-Fogg Company, is hiring a Paint Machine Operator at our Sterling, Illinois manufacturing facility. In this role, you will independently set up production equipment, perform detailed inspections, troubleshoot routine production issues, and help improve safety, quality, and efficiency.

• Location: Sterling, IL
• Work Arrangement: On-site
• Schedule: Multiple shifts available: 1st Shift, Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM-2:30 PM; 2nd Shift, Monday-Friday, 3:00 PM-11:00 PM
• Pay: $18.80-$19.40/hour
• Other Compensation: $1.00 shift differential for 2nd shift
• Employment Type: Full-time / Hourly
• Overtime: Overtime may be required based on business needs.

What You'll Do as a Paint Machine Operator

• Perform complete machine setups, including tooling changes, calibration, and adjustments.
• Conduct first-piece and in-process inspections using precision measurement equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve routine production issues independently, escalating more complex problems when needed.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications.
• Recommend and support process improvements that enhance safety, efficiency, or quality, including continuous improvement and 5S initiatives.
• Accurately document production data, downtime, and corrective actions, and support preventive maintenance by identifying equipment wear, damage, or recurring problems.
• Provide informal guidance to less experienced operators and collaborate with quality and maintenance teams to support smooth production.
• Maintain machine cleanliness and contribute to daily equipment care.

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications

• 2-3 years of prior machine operator experience.
• Demonstrated ability to perform machine setups independently.
• Strong blueprint reading and technical interpretation skills.
• Proficiency with precision measurement tools.
• No formal education requirement.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• This role involves standing, walking, bending, and reaching for extended periods, including shifts up to 12 hours.
• Employees in this role regularly lift, carry, push, or pull 35 to 50 lbs.
• The position requires manual dexterity for tooling changes, equipment adjustments, and material handling.
• The position requires visual acuity for precision inspections and reading technical drawings.
• This role operates in a manufacturing environment that may include noise, vibration, dust, oil, and temperature variations.
• Employees must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

The physical requirements described above represent those needed to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

Eligible employees across MacLean-Fogg and its affiliated companies have access to a comprehensive benefits program designed to support health, financial well-being, time away, and development. This position is eligible for benefits that include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match and potential profit sharing
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Health Savings Account contributions for eligible plans
• Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program and mental health resources
• Virtual healthcare resources
• Tuition reimbursement and development opportunities
• Additional wellness, financial, and employee programs

Benefits are subject to applicable plan terms and eligibility requirements.

Explore our full benefits and interactive resources: https://explore.benefits.macleanfogg.app

Pre-Employment Requirements

After a conditional offer, this position requires a pre-employment drug screen. Testing and employment decisions are administered consistent with applicable law.

About MacLean-Fogg

MacLean-Fogg is a fourth-generation, family-owned American manufacturing company headquartered in Mundelein, Illinois. Founded in 1925, we design and manufacture engineered components and solutions for automotive and industrial markets.

Our portfolio includes MacLean-Fogg Component Solutions, OMCO, Mallard Manufacturing, and Threadstrong. Across our companies, we share a commitment to Integrity, People, Customers, and Stewardship while investing in our people, manufacturing capabilities, customers, and communities.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accommodations

MacLean-Fogg and its affiliated companies are equal opportunity employers. We provide equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply, complete an assessment, or participate in the hiring process, contact [e-mail].

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