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Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Zekelman Industries · Rochelle, IL · Full time

Posted Jun 17, 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

Tell me about the most complex machine you've set up and run. What did setup involve?

What they are checking: Whether they've done real setup and calibration on high-speed equipment, not just loaded parts and pressed start.

Tell me about a time you suggested a change that made your job or your line run better.

What they are checking: Whether they think about continuous improvement or just run the job the same way every day.

How do you hand off your machine to the next operator at shift change?

What they are checking: Whether they pass along setup changes, quality issues and problems so the next shift doesn't start blind.

Tell me about a time you made a mistake on the job. What happened next?

What they are checking: Whether they own errors quickly, which matters on equipment where hiding a problem can hurt someone.

What would you do

Parts coming off your line start drifting out of spec. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they stop and adjust or call for help before making a pile of scrap steel.

The line is behind and you're tempted to run it faster than the setup sheet says. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they protect quality and safety when a production incentive and a busy shift push for speed.

This is second shift, 3 to 11 or 1 to 9. How will that fit with the rest of your life?

What they are checking: Whether they've thought through the schedule honestly, since attendance on second shift is what keeps a line staffed.

About the work

When would you lock out a machine you operate, and how do you do it?

What they are checking: Whether lockout is a real routine for them, including for clearing jams, not something only maintenance does.

How do you check that a cut or formed piece meets the dimensions on the spec?

What they are checking: Whether they're comfortable with measuring tools like calipers and tapes and know how often to check.

What experience do you have working around robotic equipment, and what safety rules do you follow near it?

What they are checking: Whether they respect robot work envelopes and guarding, since this line has robotic elements.

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The full job description

As published by Zekelman Industries.

You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part the places where we live, work and play – all day, everyday. Zekelman is a family of companies — 100% domestic manufacturers — with a legacy dating back to 1877. We’re proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development. We believe in what we build and what we build, builds the world around us. Hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports and more. Come build a career you believe in. About the Role As a Machine Operator at Wheatland Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries, this role plays a key part in setting up and operating high-speed equipment with robotic elements to form or cut steel to precise dimensions and specifications. This position supports safe, efficient production while contributing to quality standards and continuous improvement efforts. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, values safety and quality, and enjoys hands-on technical work. Shift: 2nd shift (3:00pm-11:00pm or 1:00pm-9:00pm) Pay: $24/hour plus production incentive What You’ll Do • Observe safety procedures, including lockout/tagout requirements, to operate equipment efficiently and safely. • Perform advanced setup and calibration of production equipment to ensure optimal performance. • Inspect materials before, during, and after production to identify quality issues. • Record and report quality deficiencies to supervisors or the quality department. • Maintain tooling and equipment required for job completion. • Diagnose equipment and quality issues to minimize scrap and production delays. • Perform housekeeping tasks to maintain clean and safe work areas. • Complete production, changeover, and scrap-related reports accurately. • Assist maintenance personnel with equipment repairs and preventive maintenance activities. • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency. • Perform other duties as assigned to support production goals. Who You Are • Manufacturing or related industrial experience, preferred. • Ability to read and write English and maintain production records and logs. • Ability to perform basic math, including addition, subtraction, decimals, and fractions. • Experience using measuring devices such as tape measures, micrometers, and calipers. • Ability to operate forklifts, cranes, and other equipment required for the role. • Strong attention to detail with the ability to work independently. • Ability to maintain regular, full-time, predictable onsite attendance per the posted schedule. • Commitment to leading and promoting safe work practices in compliance with regulatory agencies and company policy. Physical Abilities • Move objects and use abdominal and lower back muscles to provide sustained physical support without fatigue. • Perform constant movement and repetitive use of limbs requiring manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina. • Remain in a stationary position for extended periods. • Lift, climb, bend, stoop, push, and pull as required. • Lift up to 60 pounds. • Stand for 10–12 hours per shift. • Perform work in a plant or manufacturing environment. • Meet additional physical requirements as needed for the role. What You’ll Get Wheatland Tube at Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental coverage. In addition, employees have access to a strong total rewards package designed to support long-term success: • Competitive Compensation • Bonus Plan & Profit-Sharing Opportunities • 401(k) with Company Match • Comprehensive Health, Dental & Vision Insurance • Tuition Assistance Program • Paid Vacation & Holidays • Employee Loyalty Awards Compensation & Benefits Below is the expected base hourly range for this position. This is a good-faith estimate, and offers will be determined based on experience, education, skill set, and interview performance. Base Hourly Range: $24.00/hour plus production incentive Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits.  In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, immediate vesting, and much more. M/F/D/V We are Zekelman Industries. We manufacture superior quality tubular and related products, and provide outstanding service for our valued customers. We seek to continuously advance the skills and opportunities of our employees, utilizing the latest technology and management tools available to consistently increase profitability and the enterprise value of Zekelman Industries and of our customers.

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