Machine Set-Up Associate 3rd Shift Direct Hire

Job Title: Direct Hire Machine Set-Up Technician

Job Description

The Machine Set-Up Technician configures and maintains punch presses, dies, and molds to support high-volume metal stamping operations. This role sets up machines according to specifications, collaborates with quality control to ensure part accuracy, and performs adjustments and preventative maintenance to keep equipment running safely and efficiently.

Schedule: 3rd shift 10pm-630am, plus OT

(training on 1st shift before transitioning to 3rd shift)

Pay: Based off related skills $21-28.00 per hour

Responsibilities

• Set up punch press machines, dies, and molds according to production specifications and blueprints.
• Perform complete machine changeovers, including installing and removing tooling, dies, and molds as required.
• Use blueprint reading skills to interpret part specifications, tolerances, and set-up requirements.
• Collaborate with quality control to verify part dimensions, surface quality, and overall compliance with standards.
• Make mechanical adjustments to machines to improve part quality, accuracy, and consistency during production runs.
• Monitor machines during operation to identify irregularities, malfunctions, or quality issues and respond promptly.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on punch presses and related equipment to reduce downtime and extend machine life.
• Use hand tools, power tools, and measuring devices, including tape measures, to set up and verify machine configurations.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues with machines and tooling and escalate complex problems when necessary.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following safety procedures appropriate for a loud metal stamping environment.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with punch press machine set-up and operation.
• Proficiency in die setting and mold set-up for metal stamping or similar production processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to make precise mechanical adjustments to machinery.
• Experience performing preventative maintenance on production equipment.
• Ability to use hand tools and power tools safely and effectively.
• Competence using measuring tools, including tape measures, to verify set-ups and part dimensions.
• Troubleshooting skills for identifying and resolving machine and set-up issues.
• Comfort working in a loud, fast-paced metal stamping environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience as a die set-up technician or mold changer in a manufacturing setting.
• Previous work with metal stamping equipment and processes.
• Strong mechanical inclination and interest in working with industrial machinery.
• Ability to perform efficient changeovers between different parts and tooling.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Willingness to work overnight shifts after completion of training.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a direct placement opportunity with long-term stability and clear paths for advancement. The organization invests in training, including an extended on-the-job learning period, and supports professional growth for individuals who want to deepen their mechanical skills and build a career in industrial manufacturing.

Work Environment

This position is based in a high-volume metal stamping facility with a very loud production floor. The role follows a third-shift schedule from 10:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with initial training on first shift for approximately 3 to 6 months before transitioning to nights. Team members work around heavy machinery and punch presses and regularly use hand tools, power tools, and measuring devices. Hearing protection and other appropriate safety gear are required due to noise and industrial conditions.

This is a Permanent position based out of Lake Villa, IL.

The pay range for this position is $40000.00 - $60000.00/yr.

Punch Press Set-UpDie SettingMold Set-UpAbility to set machines upWork with QCMake adjustments Monitor machinesPreventative Maintenance

This is a fully onsite position in Lake Villa,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.