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$24/hour - Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Zurn Elkay · Freeport, IL · Full time

Posted Oct 2, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

This is a first shift job. How have you kept good attendance in past jobs?

What they are checking: Whether they will show up every day, since an empty machine means lost production.

How do you keep your work area clean and organized during a shift?

What they are checking: Whether they keep a safe, orderly station, which helps quality and makes handoffs easier.

Tell me about a time you noticed a problem with equipment before it broke down.

What they are checking: Whether they pay attention to sounds and changes in their machine and report them early.

How do you handle running the same job for a long time while staying careful?

What they are checking: Whether they can stay alert during long runs, since that is when mistakes and injuries happen.

What would you do

What would you do if your machine started making bad parts in the middle of a run?

What they are checking: Whether they would stop, contain the bad parts and get help instead of letting scrap pile up.

If a coworker was doing something unsafe near your machine, what would you do?

What they are checking: Whether they would speak up to protect others, which is part of a safe plant culture.

About the work

What machines have you run before, and what kind of parts did you make?

What they are checking: Whether they have real machine experience or will need to be trained from the ground up.

How do you check that the parts coming off your machine are good?

What they are checking: Whether they measure and inspect their own work instead of assuming the machine is always right.

Have you used measuring tools like calipers or micrometers? Tell me how you would read one.

What they are checking: Whether they can catch out-of-spec parts early, which saves scrap and rework later.

Tell me what lockout tagout means and when you would use it.

What they are checking: Whether they understand the safety step that prevents serious injuries when clearing jams or working on equipment.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Zurn Elkay.

$24/hour - Machine Operator - 1st Shift The Company Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation is a thriving, values-driven company focused on doing the right things. We’re a fast growing, publicly traded company (NYSE: ZWS), with an enduring reputation for integrity, giving back, and providing an engaging, inclusive environment where careers flourish and grow. Named by Newsweek as One of America’s Most Responsible Companies and an Energage USA Top Workplace, at Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation, we never forget that our people are at the center of what makes us successful. They are the driving force behind our superior quality, product ingenuity, and exceptional customer experience. Our commitment to our people and their professional development is a recipe for success that has fueled our growth for over 100 years, as one of today’s leading international suppliers of plumbing and water delivery solutions. Headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation employs over 2800 employees worldwide, working from 24 locations across the U.S., China, Canada, Dubai, and Mexico, with sales offices available around the globe. We hope you’ll visit our website and learn more about Zurn Elkay at zurnelkay.com. If you’re ready to join a company where what you do makes a difference and you have pride in the work you are doing, talk to us about joining the Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation family! If you are a current employee, please navigate here to apply internally. $24/hour Under the supervision of the Supervisor, the Machine Operators primary function is to set up, run, and oversee machines that produce or process materials, contributing to consistent production output, while minimizing downtime or defects. Essential Job Functions: • Load raw materials into the inventory system • Store and retrieve offcuts for reuse in production processes • Monitor tooling performance and coordinate timely replacements • Perform quality inspections on finished goods to ensure compliance with standards • Perform routine checks and minor maintenance; report major issues to technicians. • Collaborate with the Planning department to meet production requirements • Complete daily inventory cycle counts following standardized work instructions • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the machine operation area • Execute system transactions in MRP/ERP and generate required reports • Work safely and effectively, adhering to all safety protocols • Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth material flow • Other duties as required Knowledge, Skill & Experience Requirements: • Experience operating CNC machinery in a manufacturing environment • Familiarity with inventory systems and ERP software (JD Edwards preferred) • Strong understanding of tooling maintenance and performance monitoring • Knowledge of quality inspection procedures and standards • Perform routine checks and minor maintenance; report major issues to technicians. • Attention to detail and good problem-solving skills • Good attendance record; no culpable absences • Effective communication skills with supervisor and team • Demonstrates initiative, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn • Available for overtime when necessary to meet production goals The standard schedule for 1st shift is Monday - Friday, 6:00AM - 2:30PM The compensation range(s) identified below are a good faith estimate of the salary expected to be paid as performed from these locations. Actual salaries may vary based on compensable factors including but not limited to skillset, experience, education and training, and other relevant business and organizational factors. Most candidates will start in the lower half of the range. The range for this position is $19.76/hour-$24.21/hour. Total Rewards and Benefits • Competitive Salary • Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, AD&D, and Life Insurance • Matching 401(k) Contribution • Health Savings Account • Up to 3 weeks starting Vacation (may increase with tenure) • 12 Paid Holidays • Annual Bonus Eligibility • Educational Reimbursement • Matching Gift Program • Employee Stock Purchase Plan – purchase company stock at a discount! **THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Zurn Elkay, and we will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions.** E qual Opportunity Employer – Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

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