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Lead Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orbia

Lead Machine Operator

West Valley City, UT

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Dura-Line is hiring for a Lead Machine Operator in West Valley City About Orbia Connectivity Solutions Dura-Line: Join Dura‑Line, an Orbia Connectivity Solutions business, where we create solutions ...

PeopleShare

3rd Shift Lead Machine Operator

Allentown, PA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

3rd Shift Lead Machine Operator needed in Allentown, PA! PeopleShare is partnered with a well established manufacturing company on their search for a Lead Machine Operator. The ideal candidate will ...

TPG Staffing

Sr. Lead Machine Operator

Cape May, NJ

Sr. Lead Machine Operator Our client, a major fishing and seafood processing company, is seeking an experienced Senior/Lead Machine Operator to oversee the operation of our bagging equipment (2 ...

Orbia

Lead Machine Operator

West Valley City, UT · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Dura-Line is hiring for a Lead Machine Operator in West Valley City About Orbia Connectivity Solutions Dura-Line: Join Dura‑Line, an Orbia Connectivity Solutions business, where we create solutions ...

TPG Staffing

Sr. Lead Machine Operator

Cape May, NJ · On-site

Sr. Lead Machine Operator Our client, a major fishing and seafood processing company, is seeking an experienced Senior/Lead Machine Operator to oversee the operation of our bagging equipment (2 ...

AMD Distribution

Lead Machine Operator

Springdale, AR · On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead Machine Operator Springdale, AR Operate the metal building lamination machine, along with other duties as needed, to produce high-quality metal building insulation. Essential Job Functions

Dart Container

Lead Machine Operator

Federalsburg, MD

$28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our high-performing team in Leola, PA as a Lead Machine Operator and play a critical role in keeping our production lines running smoothly and efficiently. Take your machine skills to the next ...

Dart Container

Lead Machine Operator

Federalsburg, MD · On-site

$28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our high-performing team in Leola, PA as a Lead Machine Operator and play a critical role in keeping our production lines running smoothly and efficiently. Take your machine skills to the next ...

Adecco

Lead Machine Operator

Erie, PA

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Lead Extrusion Operator, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring extrusion machinery in addition to serving as a shift lead. Responsibilities for this Lead Operator job include:

Dart Container

Lead Machine Operator

Federalsburg, MD · On-site

$28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our high-performing team in Leola, PA as a Lead Machine Operator and play a critical role in keeping our production lines running smoothly and efficiently. Take your machine skills to the next ...

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All JobsLead Machine Operator Jobs

Lead Machine Operator information

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$15

$24

$35

How much do lead machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead machine operator in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Machine Operator, you need strong technical knowledge of manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and experience in machine operation, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with computerized control systems, maintenance tools, and quality management software is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient production, equipment reliability, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

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

AspectLead Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, machinery operation certificationsRequires similar certifications, often OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentSupervises team, oversees machinery, ensures safetyOperates machinery, follows standard procedures
ResponsibilitiesLeads operations, trains staff, maintains equipmentOperates and monitors machines, performs routine maintenance

The main difference is that the Lead Machine Operator supervises and coordinates machine operation, while the Machine Operator focuses on operating machinery. The lead role involves additional responsibilities like team oversight and training, but both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable industrial environments.

What does a lead machine operator do?

A Lead Machine Operator oversees the operation of machinery in a manufacturing or production environment. They are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting machines, as well as ensuring production targets and quality standards are met. In addition, they often supervise and train junior operators, coordinate workflow, and enforce safety protocols. Their role is crucial in maintaining efficient and safe production processes.

What are some common challenges faced by lead machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Lead Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating a team with varying skill levels, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. To address these issues, effective communication and regular training are key, as well as staying up-to-date with machine maintenance schedules. Cultivating strong problem-solving skills and encouraging a collaborative environment can help the team quickly adapt to production changes and minimize downtime.

What is a lead machine operator?

A lead machine operator supervises and coordinates the operation of manufacturing or processing machinery, ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality standards are met. They often have technical skills, experience with machinery, and may oversee a team of operators during shifts.
More about Lead Machine Operator jobs

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Cities with the most Lead Machine Operator job openings:

What states have the most Lead Machine Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Machine Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Lead Machine Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Machine Operator jobs are:

Lead Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,047 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Assistant Lead Machine Operator

Sellars Absorbent Materials

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

Position: Assistant Lead Machine Operator


Shift:

Nights 6:45 pm -7:00 am (12-hour shift; 2-2-3 schedule)

Days 6:45 am -7:00 pm (12-hour shift; 2-2-3 schedule)

Pay: $28+


Are you a highly skilled natural leader with experience in trouble shooting and adjusting machines? Are you mechanically inclined? Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment?


We are hiring for an Assistant Lead Machine Operator who enjoys working as a lead in a team atmosphere! The Assistant Lead is responsible for operating and troubleshooting a 75 yard long machine. The ideal candidate must be able to work 12 hours on a 2-2-3 schedule (2 days on, 2 days off, 3 days on), you get every other weekend off, able to safely lift up to 50lbs and able to reach 84 inches high. The Machine Operator must be very comfortable working in hot climate environment.


Requirements/Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalency preferred
  • Minimum 3-5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Prior experience working in a continuous production process preferred
  • Minimum of 1-3 years of leadership experience
  • Prior lift truck experience is a plus
  • Ability to read a ruler required
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Must be able to work effectively on a team
  • Be able to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
  • Comfortable with heights up to 30 ft. and operating scissor and articulating lifts
  • Must be able to clearly communicate ideas, thoughts, and issues
  • Willing and comfortable confronting issues in a positive manner

How you contribute as a team member:

  • Demonstrate personal safety and help maintain a safe work environment for themselves and fellow members of the production team. Responsible for following all company safety rules and guidelines
  • Serve as the Team Leader when required
  • Troubleshoot malfunctions or production issues and offer improvement ideas
  • Continuously work as a hands-on, working operator
  • Assist with equipment set-up, adjustment and operation
  • Assist with roll set up/change over
  • Quality testing, shrink wrap, and use appropriate material handling equipment to stage warehouse product
  • Perform routine maintenance on production assets and/or assist Maintenance Technicians as needed
  • Exhibit a strong aptitude for training new employees
  • Mentor to junior operators

Benefits:

We frequently seek avenues to enhance our total rewards package as we recognize that our associates are a significant asset to our success and the community! All benefits are available to you from day one!


Medical insurance Flex Spending Account Dental Vision Voluntary Supplemental insurance Employee Assistance Program (Paid) Short-term Disability (Paid) Long-term Disability 401K (100% company match on the first 4% & total company match of 5%) Employee Discount

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