Machine Operator - Chicago

Job Type: Full-time, 1st Shift

Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour depending on experience

Work Location: In person at 1001 N North Branch St, Chicago, IL 60642

About The Job

The Role

LettrLabs is a fast-growing direct mail marketing tech startup, combining software, automation, and robotics to create truly unique products. We’re seeking a reliable, energetic, and detail-oriented team member who’s ready to hit the ground running and grow with us.

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and accurate operation of manufacturing equipment and production lines. This role ensures production targets are met while maintaining quality standards, adhering to safety protocols, and supporting continuous-improvement initiatives. The Operator works closely with quality, maintenance, and technical teams to minimize downtime, reduce waste, and drive operational excellence across the shift.

Why Join Us

• Hands-on experience in a tech-forward production environment
• Be part of a supportive and ambitious startup team
• Overtime eligibility
• Opportunity for growth and long-term contribution: demonstrated performers may be considered for Senior Machine Operator, Shift Lead, or cross-training onto additional equipment lines as opportunities arise, supported by on-the-job training and internal mentorship.

We’re building something special, and we want people who care about doing great work, and working as a team. If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!

What You Will Own

Key Objectives

Performance in this role is evaluated against the following operational measures:

• Safety: zero recordable incidents; full compliance with LOTO/PPE requirements and timely near-miss reporting.
• Quality: first-pass yield and defect rate within facility targets; timely, accurate non-conformance documentation.
• Productivity: equipment output at or above line rate standard; changeover time within target; overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) contribution.
• Reliability: attendance and shift punctuality; accurate, real-time production and batch-record documentation.

Equipment Operation & Production

• Set up, operate, and monitor assigned manufacturing equipment and production lines in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Achieve daily production targets by maintaining optimal equipment performance, uptime, and output quality.
• Perform changeovers and line clearances efficiently to minimize downtime between production runs.
• Identify, report, and act on opportunities to reduce material waste and scrap.
• Document production data, batch records, and process logs accurately and in real time.
• Stage materials and coordinate with material handling to keep the line supplied without interruption.

Quality & Compliance

• Conduct in-process quality checks and inspections to ensure products meet specifications.
• Identify and segregate non-conforming materials; initiate corrective action reports as needed.
• Adhere to ISO standards and all applicable regulatory requirements.
• Participate in internal audits and support external regulatory inspections.
• Escalate recurring quality issues to the Shift Supervisor and Quality team for root-cause follow-up.

Safety & Environment

• Follow all safety policies, lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, and PPE requirements at all times.
• Report near-misses, unsafe conditions, and incidents immediately to the Shift Supervisor.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area consistent with 5S standards.
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and hazard identification activities.

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Identify and communicate equipment issues, malfunctions, or anomalies to the supervisor or OEM service technicians.
• Make minor adjustments to ensure compliance with established centerlines.
• Perform basic preventive maintenance tasks per the PM schedule.
• Enter and track work orders in the CMMS system.
• Follow established escalation protocols for reporting equipment issues.
• Partner with maintenance and engineering technicians to resolve recurring equipment problems.

Continuous Improvement

• Actively participate in Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen improvement initiatives.
• Suggest and help implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, safety, and quality.
• Support cross-training efforts and knowledge-sharing within the team.

What You Bring

We’re looking for someone who is proactive, hands-on, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Prior experience in production or a similar operational role is required, along with a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to take ownership and continuously improve.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate's degree or technical/vocational certification preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience operating machinery or equipment in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Experience with automated production equipment is preferred.
• Prior experience in a print production environment is preferred.
• OSHA 10/30 certification, forklift certification, or CMMS experience is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand and operate complex production equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Ability to read and interpret SOPs and work instructions.
• Basic computer literacy, including data entry into production/CMMS systems and inventory updates.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Reliable and punctual with a history of consistent attendance.

Core Competencies

• Safety Mindset: treats safety as a non-negotiable, not a checkbox.
• Accountability: owns outcomes, documents accurately, and follows through without prompting.
• Adaptability: stays effective through changeovers, schedule shifts, and evolving priorities.
• Collaboration: works smoothly with quality, maintenance, and fellow operators across shifts.

Requirements

• 21+ years of age
• Valid driver’s license
• Pass a background check
• Sign a non-disclosure agreement

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Work Environment

• Manufacturing plant setting: loud and industrial, with moderate to high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, and varying temperatures (heat and cold).
• Required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed footwear, and gloves, is provided.
• Standard schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm, approximately 40 hours per week.
• This role may require rotating shifts, overtime, and occasional weekend work to support production schedules.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and be on your feet for extended periods (up to 10 hours per shift).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. regularly, and up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent standing, bending, reaching, and climbing (e.g., platforms, stairs); ability to perform repetitive motions.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination required for equipment operation.
• Near and far vision sufficient to read gauges, displays, and printed work instructions.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off (PTO), holidays, and sick leave

Job Type: Full-time, 1st Shift

Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour depending on experience

Work Location: In person at 1001 N North Branch St, Chicago, IL 60642

Actual base salary offered will be determined by: experience, skills, and work location. This range is for base salary, our total compensation includes equity and benefits. We welcome you to apply even if your expectations are outside our listed range.

LettrLabs is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

LettrLabs is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures and throughout employment. If you need assistance or any accommodation, please let us know.

LettrLabs does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies without a fully executed recruitment agreement in place. In the absence of such agreement, LettrLabs reserves the right to pursue and hire any candidates without an obligation to pay fees. Agencies are requested not to contact LettrLabs hiring managers or employees regarding recruiting services.