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…