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Lead Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Westfall Technik

Machine Operator

Asheboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Position: Full-Time | Non-Exempt Location: Asheboro, NC Reports to: Shift ... Communicates all part defects or problems regarding production issues to Lead, Technician, and/or ...

WestFall Technik

Machine Operator

Asheboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Position: Full-Time | Non-Exempt Location: Asheboro, NC Reports to: Shift ... Communicates all part defects or problems regarding production issues to Lead, Technician, and/or ...

Westfall Technik

Machine Operator

Asheboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Position: Full-Time | Non-Exempt Location: Asheboro, NC Reports to: Shift ... Communicates all part defects or problems regarding production issues to Lead, Technician, and/or ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Madison, NC

$31K - $39K/yr

Machine Operator in Madison, NC Day Shift, $16-19/HR + Production Bonuses! Direct Placement ... lead roles * Long tenured employees Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Madison, NC · On-site

$31K - $39K/yr

Machine Operator in Madison, NC Day Shift, $16-19/HR + Production Bonuses! Direct Placement ... lead roles * Long tenured employees Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of ...

Mohawk Industries, Inc.

Machine Operator

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Whether you want to lead more, innovate more, learn more or create more, you can find your more ... Ability to troubleshoot machinery and equipment concerns using training, reaction plans, and ...

Mohawk Industries

Machine Operator

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Whether you want to lead more, innovate more, learn more or create more, you can find your more ... Ability to troubleshoot machinery and equipment concerns using training, reaction plans, and ...

Mohawk Industries

Machine Operator

Thomasville, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Whether you want to lead more, innovate more, learn more or create more, you can find your more ... Ability to troubleshoot machinery and equipment concerns using training, reaction plans, and ...

Gaf

SSB Machine Operator

Burgaw, NC · On-site

$24.04/hr

The SSB Machine Operator partners with other machine operators, lead and supervisor to establish and maintain an environment where safety, quality, service and cost are the highest priorities.

Mohawk Industries, Inc.

Machine Operator

Thomasville, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Whether you want to lead more, innovate more, learn more or create more, you can find your more ... Ability to troubleshoot machinery and equipment concerns using training, reaction plans, and ...

Refresco

Machine Operator Lead US

Wilson, NC · On-site

Follow all Quality Control and Production line standard operating procedures. * Ability to understand visual and auditory cues to identify production or machine related issues. * Will assist in ...

SPX

Machine Operator

Eden, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine operating experience * Blueprint reading and mechanical abilities. * Must be able to read ... Whether you are an individual contributor or you lead a large team, each of us leads. What Benefits ...

CaptiveAire

Machine Operator

Youngsville, NC · On-site

$18/hr

... and rapid lead times. CaptiveAire maintains a network of over 90 sales offices in the U.S. and ... We are currently hiring for Machine Operators in our Youngsville, NC Manufacturing Facility. Join ...

SUR-SEAL LLC

Machine Operator - Rotary

Charlotte, NC

$21 - $22/hr

Follows up with team lead to verify any questions if necessary. * Observes machine operation to ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsLead Machine Operator JobsLead Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina

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:

Lead Machine Operator jobs near you
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

Westfall Technik

Asheboro, NC • On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Title: Machine Operator

Position: Full-Time | Non-Exempt

Location: Asheboro, NC

Reports to: Shift Supervisor

SCHEDULE: 2-2-3, 12 Hour Shifts, Days & Night 7pm-7:15am

SUMMARY OF ROLE

The Machine Operator is responsible for the proper operation of injection molding machines and performing necessary secondary operations at the press such as trimming, visual inspection of parts according to quality criteria, and proper packaging methods. Must be proficient in quality inspections, finished product handling and any miscellaneous tasks requested by management.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-speed environment, follow standardized work instructions and adhere to safe work practices in a continuous improvement environment.

  • Operate molding presses.
  • Check parts using a micrometer, if applicable.
  • Check parts for quality defects such as cracks and chip outs.
  • Trim and inspect parts as needed by customer specification.
  • Follow work instructions on the process and desired quality needed with each production run.
  • Count, organize and package parts per requirements.
  • Properly complete all shift paperwork per work instructions.
  • Communicates all part defects or problems regarding production issues to Lead, Technician, and/or Supervisor.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
  • Work as a team.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Prior manufacturing experience is desired, but not required.
  • Positive outlook while working through obstacles.
  • Self-starter, high level of initiative
  • Detail orientated.
  • Good time management skills.
  • Good communication skills written, verbal, active listening.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Must be able to climb ladders.
  • Must be able to lift up 50 lbs. at continuous intervals throughout the day.
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to operate necessary equipment to do the job.
  • Requires frequent bending, squatting and twisting motions.
  • Continuously perform visual inspections on parts
  • Attention to detail

What you'll love about us:

  • 11 Paid Holidays, Vacation and Sick Pay
  • Climate Controlled Work Environment
  • 401K, Plus Employer Match
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Company Sponsored Life and AD&D, Short and Long Term Disability, Paid Parental Leave, and More!

We are committed to creating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, region, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is in a manufacturing facility with moderate noise level. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical parts. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Westfall -Technik is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, religious creed, physical disability, mental disability, age for individuals age 40 and over, medical condition (as defined by state law (for example, cancer or genetic characteristics or HIV/AIDS), marital status, military and veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment.

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