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Lead Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

The Lead Machine Operator position has responsibility for executing corrugated orders per job specifications and details. This role leads machine crews from set up to completion of these projects ...

Machine Operator Lead

Bethel, NC ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Lead Machine Operator position has responsibility for executing corrugated orders per job specifications and details. This role leads machine crews from set up to completion of these projects ...

Cooperates with Manufacturing Manager, Production Shift Supervisor, Hot End Specialist, Lead Machine Operator and Maintenance Performs preventative maintenance as scheduled and/or required ยท ...

Machine Operator

Farmville, NC ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Lead machine crew with setups/change overs. Problem solve when issues with the machine arise ... Previous experience operating corrugated printing equipment. Experience in a packaging or other ...

Machine Operator

Farmville, NC ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Lead machine crew with setups/change overs. Problem solve when issues with the machine arise ... Previous experience operating corrugated printing equipment. Experience in a packaging or other ...

Machine Operator

Wilmington, NC ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating assigned equipment to produce quality ... Immediately notify the Segment Lead when quality issues occur * Follow documented inspection ...

... Lead all required meetings with safety (i.e. Pre-shift, Department, Change Management, General ... Perform training for employees, especially operators * Responsible for troubleshooting process ...

... Lead all required meetings with safety (i.e. Pre-shift, Department, Change Management, General ... Perform training for employees, especially operators * Responsible for troubleshooting process ...

Machine Operator Shift Lead

Colfax, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Train new Machine Operators and provide ongoing guidance and support to production employees ... Lead and support 5S activities to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.

Machine Operator Shift Lead

Colfax, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Train new Machine Operators and provide ongoing guidance and support to production employees ... Lead and support 5S activities to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.

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Lead Machine Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do lead machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead machine operator in North Carolina is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Lead Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina?

For Lead Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Lead Machine Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,392 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Machine Operator Lead

schwarzpartners

Bethel, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Lead Machine Operator position has responsibility for executing corrugated orders per job specifications and details. This role leads machine crews from set up to completion of these projects while monitoring quality throughout. Specific equipment knowledge and experience are a must. The Lead Machine Operator will be accountable for running orders safely and efficiently. Goals will be impeccable quality, increased productivity, less downtime, and less waste while supporting company and client goals.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS FOR THIS POSITION:

  • Oversee and be accountable for a machine crews from set up and to completion of corrugated orders.
  • Run orders according to job specifications and details.
  • Execute orders safely, timely and efficiently.
  • Troubleshoot machines or jobs as needed.
  • Train and assist Operators and Helpers with job duties.
  • Perform minor repairs as needed on machines, dies or plates.
  • Make impressions and manual adjustments throughout the machines.
  • Do quality checks.
  • Assist Operations Manager and General Manager as needed.
  • Participate in regular safety meetings and training, perform lockout/tagout procedures as needed.
  • Complete all necessary paperwork accurately and timely.
  • Minimize waste, maximize production.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
  • Comply with company policies and procedures and all applicable laws and regulations, including federal and/or state required environmental systems, OSHA Safety and Health rules, and standard operating procedures.
  • Regular and predictable attendance.
  • Additional duties as assigned.


REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

  • HS Diploma (or GED) or higher.
  • Minimum 3 yearsโ€™ experience in the corrugated industry as a machine operator.
  • Experience with specific machine set up, die handling, print plate set up, operation and troubleshooting for Folder Flexo Gluers (FFG) and Rotary Die Cutters (RDC) preferred.
  • Machine specific experience: specialty gluing, autobottoms, corner tray, flexo printing, ink, and color, litho labeling.
  • Knowledge of assembly and fulfillment processes.
  • Knowledge of various paperboard stocks, board grade combinations, POP displays and printing processes.


REQUIRED SKILLS:

  • Strong team player; Quality and Safety conscious leader.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Good communication skills, verbal and written.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work flexible hours or extended hours.
  • Strong work ethic with emphasis on safety.


PREFERRED SKILLS (TECHNICAL, CLERICAL, LANGUAGE, ETC.):

  • Forklift Certification.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is:

  • Required to stand, sit, walk, talk and hear.
  • Exposed to moving mechanical parts, hot/humid conditions, vibrations. The environment is usually loud.
  • Required to use hands to grasp, handle, or feel and reach.
  • Required to stoop, kneel, crouch, climb or crawl. Twist and/or use upper body. Bend, push, and stretch.
  • Occasionally exposed to high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles.
  • Required to regularly lift and/or move up to 70 lbs. Any objects over 50 lbs. will be recommended to be handled by two members.
  • Must have specific vision abilities required by this job, including close vision, color vision, distance vision, depth perception and peripheral vision.


WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


While performing the duties of this job:

  • The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
  • The employee is frequently exposed to extreme heat or cold.
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration.
  • Specific PPE will be required in certain areas.
  • The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud.


OTHER INFORMATION:

  • The essential job functions and major job functions are not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the job functions that an individual will be required or expected to perform.
  • Position Descriptions may be changed or revised by the Company from time to time at its sole discretion.


This Position Description is not intended to guarantee, and does not guarantee, ongoing employment or employment for a definite term, either in this position or with the Company. Absent an enforceable written contract to the contrary, and to the fullest extent allowed by federal, state and local law, an employeeโ€™s employment relationship with the Company is at-will.