General Production Worker

General Production WorkerThe General Production Worker operates and adjusts metalworking machinery to straighten, cut, and prepare steel materials for shipment. This role involves hands-on physical labor in a manufacturing environment, working with steel sheets and bars, measuring and cutting stock, and building shipping crates to ensure products are processed accurately and safely.ResponsibilitiesOperate planer and related production machinery to process steel sheets and bars according to specifications.Cut stock and accurately measure materials to meet required dimensions and tolerances.Physically handle and lift steel sheets and bars, loading them into the straightening line and other equipment.Straighten metal sheets and machined bars using dedicated machines, monitoring output for quality and consistency.Adjust and press machinery settings to maintain proper operation and achieve desired results.Perform repetitive physical labor while maintaining focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.Receive raw incoming materials and verify proper weights, quantities, and types before processing.Operate machines that straighten machined bars, ensuring correct alignment and finish.Construct wooden crates for shipping, securing finished products for transport.Use a sander to remove rough spots and prepare metal parts for final use or shipment.Follow all shop safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment.Maintain a clean and organized work area, managing steel scrap and debris around the machines.Essential SkillsAt least 2 years of machine operating experience or heavy industrial experience.Prior manufacturing experience in a production or industrial setting.Ability to perform repetitive physical labor, including lifting, loading, and unloading steel materials.Comfort working with steel sheets, bars, and other metal components.Basic mechanical aptitude to operate, adjust, and monitor industrial machinery.Ability to read measurements and accurately cut and prepare stock.Commitment to following safety procedures in a machine shop environment.Availability to work first shift, Monday through Thursday, from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in a steel-focused environment or machine shop is a strong plus.Background in banding, loading, and unloading materials in a manufacturing setting.Ability to build wooden crates and perform basic woodworking tasks for shipping preparation.Experience using sanding tools to finish metal surfaces.Comfort working as the primary machinist on the production floor.No CNC experience is required for this role.Ownership of steel toe boots suitable for industrial work.Why Work Here?You will join a close-knit, small-shop environment where your contributions have a direct impact on daily operations. The team values hands-on craftsmanship, reliability, and safety, offering a consistent daytime schedule that supports work-life balance. You will work with specialized equipment and large metal parts, gaining practical experience in a unique manufacturing niche while benefiting from a supportive culture that provides the tools and protective gear you need to succeed.Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a small machine shop that specializes in producing large metal parts used to bend steel. The production floor has about ten operators, and this position serves as the primary machinist. The environment is industrial and can be dirty, with steel scrap on the floors and active metalworking equipment in use. Employees wear street clothes that they do not mind getting dirty, and steel toe boots are required. Safety glasses and ear plugs are provided. Work is performed on first shift, Monday through Thursday, from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., using metalworking machinery such as planers, straightening machines, and sanding equipment in a hands-on, physically demanding setting.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $19.00 - $24.00/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Chicago, IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 7, 2026. Aerotek