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Lead Extrusion Machine Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Lead Litho Press Operator

Garner, NC · On-site

$38 - $43/hr

... 102-8P The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and ... Enforce all safety procedures including LOTO, machine guarding, and chemical handling * Promote a ...

Lead Litho Press Operator

Garner, NC · On-site

$38 - $43/hr

... 102-8P The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and ... Enforce all safety procedures including LOTO, machine guarding, and chemical handling * Promote a ...

This role is expected to be hands-on, and also manage a team of machinists and operators and works ... Lead, train, and manage a team of machinists and operators conducting magnet finishing. Plan and ...

This role is expected to be hands-on, and also manage a team of machinists and operators and works ... Lead, train, and manage a team of machinists and operators conducting magnet finishing. Plan and ...

This role is expected to be hands-on, and also manage a team of machinists and operators and works ... Lead, train, and manage a team of machinists and operators conducting magnet finishing. Plan and ...

Lead Operator, Butner | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Lead Operator, Butner | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Job Shop Machinist

Angier, NC · On-site

$15 - $20.75/hr

Job Shop Machinist Puck | Built to Lead. Location: Angier, NC Department: Facilities Employment ... Preparing and operating machines to cut and polish raw materials and components to exact ...

Job Shop Machinist

Angier, NC · On-site

$15 - $20.75/hr

Job Shop Machinist Puck | Built to Lead. Location: Angier, NC Department: Facilities Employment ... Preparing and operating machines to cut and polish raw materials and components to exact ...

Job Shop Machinist

Angier, NC

$15 - $20.75/hr

Job ShopMachinist Puck | Built to Lead. Location:Angier, NCDepartment:FacilitiesEmployment Type ... Preparing and operating machines to cut and polish raw materials and components to exact ...

Senior Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Lead equipment changeovers and start-of-batch activities with accurate documentation and safe ... Operate machinery and perform processes for machining, chemical processing, formulation, visual ...

Twister Operator Puck | Built to Lead. Location: Angier, NC Department: Twisting Employment Type ... If you are a skilled, detail-oriented machinist who takes pride in precision work, we want to hear ...

Twister Operator Puck | Built to Lead. Location: Angier, NC Department: Twisting Employment Type ... If you are a skilled, detail-oriented machinist who takes pride in precision work, we want to hear ...

... interpreting operator feedback, understanding machine status indications and functions, and ... in extrusion, plastics, and web handling or winding is a plus. * Experience and computer skills ...

... interpreting operator feedback, understanding machine status indications and functions, and ... extrusion, plastics, and web handling or winding is a plus. * Experience with a Computerized ...

... interpreting operator feedback, understanding machine status indications and functions, and ... extrusion, plastics, and web handling or winding is a plus. * Experience with a Computerized ...

Showing results 41-60

Lead Extrusion Machine Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do lead extrusion machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead extrusion machine operator in Raleigh, NC is $18.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead extrusion machine operator?

Lead Extrusion Machine Operators are skilled professionals responsible for overseeing the extrusion process, typically in manufacturing environments where materials like metals, plastics, or rubber are shaped into specific profiles. As lead operators, they not only set up, monitor, and adjust extrusion machines, but also supervise a team of operators to ensure efficient production and high-quality output. Their duties include troubleshooting equipment, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring products meet exact specifications. They often collaborate with quality control and maintenance teams to optimize production processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead extrusion machine operator?

To thrive as a Lead Extrusion Machine Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of extrusion processes, mechanical aptitude, and experience with production machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), quality control systems, and maintenance tools is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you manage teams and address production issues proactively. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations, high-quality output, and smooth workflow in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead extrusion machine operator, and how can they be effectively managed?

Lead Extrusion Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing production schedules. Effectively addressing these issues involves closely monitoring machine settings, performing regular preventative maintenance, and collaborating with maintenance teams for swift repairs. Additionally, strong communication with production staff and supervisors ensures that workflow remains smooth and any deviations are quickly resolved. Staying updated on best practices and safety protocols also helps minimize downtime and maintain high productivity.

What is the difference between Lead Extrusion Machine Operator vs Extrusion Machine Operator?

AspectLead Extrusion Machine OperatorExtrusion Machine Operator
CertificationsTypically required to have certifications in extrusion processes and safetyMay have basic certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervises team, oversees extrusion line, ensures qualityOperates extrusion machinery, monitors production
ResponsibilitiesLeading operations, troubleshooting, quality control, trainingRunning machines, adjusting settings, basic troubleshooting

The Lead Extrusion Machine Operator generally has more responsibilities, including supervising staff and ensuring quality standards, while the Extrusion Machine Operator focuses on operating and maintaining extrusion equipment. Both roles require technical skills, but the lead position involves leadership and oversight duties.

Is a lead extrusion machine operator a good job?

A lead extrusion machine operator is a skilled manufacturing role responsible for operating and maintaining extrusion equipment to produce plastic or metal products. The job typically offers steady employment, requires attention to safety protocols, and may include certifications or training in machinery operation. Compensation and job stability depend on the industry and location, but it can be a viable career for those interested in manufacturing and technical work.

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Lead Extrusion Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Lead Extrusion Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Lead Extrusion Machine Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,906 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Lead Litho Press Operator

Garner, NC • On-site

$38 - $43/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Shift: 2nd shift- 5:30pm-5:30am
 
 
Pay Range: $38.00-$43.00
 
 
 
Equipment:
Heidelberg Speedmaster CX 102-6+L
Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105-6+LX
Heidelberg Speedmaster SX 102-8P
Job Description

The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and maintenance in the Litho Press department. This role sets the pace for safety, quality, and throughput-coordinating crew assignments, ensuring efficient make-ready and color control, resolving press issues, and supporting continuous improvement.

This position partners closely with Scheduling, Prepress, Bindery, and Quality teams to meet customer specifications, delivery commitments, and plant performance goals.


Responsibilities
  • Lead start-of-shift huddles covering safety, priorities, quality focus, and crew assignments
  • Coordinate crew assignments across Heidelberg presses based on workload and skillsets
  • Troubleshoot press issues including registration, color, sheet handling, marking, scumming, streaking, and roller settings
  • Manage shift handoffs and ensure accurate documentation in job travelers and press logs
  • Oversee efficient make-ready processes including plate mounting, blanket/cylinder checks, ink/water balance, and changeovers
  • Verify imposition, plates, substrates, and ink sets prior to production; escalate issues as needed
  • Maintain color standards (density, E, gray balance, G7 where applicable) and document results
  • Ensure proper documentation and traceability including lot tracking, line clearance, and label control
  • Enforce and support preventative maintenance (PMs) such as roller care, blankets, filters, and lubrication
  • Confirm readiness of tooling and consumables (plates, blankets, fountain solution, press chemistry, etc.)
  • Support root cause analysis for downtime, defects, and recurring issues
  • Operate offset presses as needed
  • Enforce all safety procedures including LOTO, machine guarding, and chemical handling
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in offset lithography, preferably with Heidelberg sheetfed presses (e.g., Speedmaster) or similar
  • Strong expertise in make-ready, color management, and troubleshooting multi-color presses (aqueous/UV coating experience is a plus)
  • Solid understanding of substrates, ink/water balance, coatings, and pressroom chemistry
  • Ability to read and interpret job tickets, proofs, color standards, and prepress documentation
  • Proven leadership experience as a lead operator or senior pressman
  • Basic computer skills and familiarity with press consoles and quality systems
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks including standing, walking, and material handling
  • Comfortable working in a production environment with noise, chemicals, and required PPE
  • Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed
$38 - $43 an hour
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