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Lead Machine Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Lead

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

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 ...

Technical Lead Brookshire, TX Compensation Includes * Starting Pay Rate of $24 - 32/hour Available ... Serve as first line supervisor for Machine Operators, and Utility persons * Assign employees to ...

Machine Operator

Mineola, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Machine Operator Department: Packaging Operations Employment Type: Full Time Location: Mineola, TX ... Perform other duties as assigned by Production Supervisor, Production Lead or other members of ...

Setup & Changeover: Assist the lead operator in preparing machines for production runs, performing minor mechanical adjustments, and clearing jams. * Quality Control: Inspect the physical condition ...

Setup & Changeover: Assist the lead operator in preparing machines for production runs, performing minor mechanical adjustments, and clearing jams. * Quality Control: Inspect the physical condition ...

Machine Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator Department: Packaging Operations Employment Type: Full Time Location: Dallas, TX ... Perform other duties as assigned by Production Manager, Production Lead or other members of ...

Machine Operator II

Selma, TX · On-site

$18.90 - $23.15/hr

The Machine Operator II operates, leads and maintains one complex machine and/or different types of ... Troubleshoots lines, reports any issues to team lead or supervisor or manager and participates in ...

Technical Lead Brookshire, TX Compensation Includes * Starting Pay Rate of $24 - 32/hour Available ... Serve as first line supervisor for Machine Operators, and Utility persons * Assign employees to ...

Technical Lead Brookshire, TX Compensation Includes * Starting Pay Rate of $24 - 32/hour Available ... Serve as first line supervisor for Machine Operators, and Utility persons * Assign employees to ...

Machine Operator - Shear

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Fabrication Shear Machine Operator Build a Career, Not Just a Job Join Mestex At Mestex, we dont ... Support cross-functional initiatives to reduce lead time and improve quality. * Perform other ...

BAG MACHINE OPERATOR A

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Bag Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining paper bag machinery to ... Able to fill in during absence of Lead or Supervisor. * Quality Control: * Inspect bags for defects ...

Machine Operator 2 - Nights

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$20.80 - $24/hr

Machine Operator 2 - Nights SHIFT: Monday - Thursday, 6:00 pm - 4:30 am (additional OT Fridays as ... Ability to lead and direct groups of employees to successful task completion * Perform effectively ...

Machine Operator

Saginaw, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Job Overview The Machine Operator is responsible for operating one of the following machines ... Communicate with Kitchen cooks and pack-off lead to determine staffing needs to ensure product flow ...

Machine Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... Operator will be expected to tend to and operate extrusion machines in a work cell to produce ... Fill in for lead in signing off loads * Evaluate part conformance against documented product ...

Machine Operator

Mineola, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

The Machine Operator is primarily responsible for efficiently operating packaging machinery to ... Perform other duties as assigned by Production Supervisor, Production Lead or other members of ...

Machine Operator

Caddo Mills, TX · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Operator to join our dynamic team and operate state-of-the-art machinery systems in our modern ... Lead the operation of sophisticated production machinery systems. * Perform quality control testing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Machine Operator information

See Texas salary details

$14

$22

$32

How much do lead machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead machine operator in Texas is $22.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $25.96 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 are popular job titles related to Lead Machine Operator jobs in Texas? For Lead Machine Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Lead Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Lead Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Lead Machine Operator job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,558 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Machine Operator Lead

Machine Operator Lead

Refresco

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 hours ago


Refresco rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 389 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Essential Job Functions:
  • Adhere to all health and safety policies/procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) while in the warehouse or production areas (including but not limited to hairnets/beard nets, safety glasses, hearing protection, hard toe and slip/oil resistant shoes, appropriate safety gloves, and seatbelts while operating forklifts)
  • Responsible to adhere to food quality and food safety as per the standard(s) provided by corporate, customer, and/or governing bodies (ex. SQF).
  • Ability to acquire an in-depth, operational knowledge of the assigned line's operating equipment as well as other ancillary or offline related equipment.
  • Adhere to the production schedule and communicate with the Supervisor, regarding problems or changes that may be necessary.
  • Monitor the production line for defects such as downed bottles/cans, low fills, faulty packaging, damage, and misaligned labels, while accurately identifying raw material issues that could impact production quality, reduce efficiency, or increase waste.
  • Monitor finished product and/or cases for proper closures/seams, date and product codes and damaged or out of specification packaging.
  • Following standard operating procedures and reading both imperial and metric measurements, perform changeovers efficiently and carefully, ensuring the correct settings and parts are installed and that no mechanical defects exist that could damage equipment or product.
  • Record all necessary information for production and quality records. Keep accurate downtime reports and documentation.
  • Perform all end of shift duties to ensure smooth transition for incoming shift.
  • Work closely with all departments to improve quality, increase efficiencies, increase yields and eliminate out of specification or damaged product. Foster a positive team environment to promote cooperation and teamwork.
  • Possesses a practical understanding of SQF and HACCP and can address inquiries related to both.
  • Ability to read, comprehend, and adhere to a production manufacturing schedule, effectively communicate issues or deviations with the appropriate parties and respond to inquiries.
  • Maintain production flow machine(s) by monitoring downstream and upstream issues, supplying raw materials to the equipment, and performing minor servicing when needed.
  • 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 training new employees.
  • Perform minor machine maintenance as well as daily and weekly preventive maintenance.

Required Skills:
  • Experience in a high-speed beverage production environment required. Ability to independently and efficiently operate and troubleshoot required manufacturing equipment.
  • Solid understanding of production machinery/forklifts, including an awareness of technical issues
  • Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure
  • Forklift certification may be required

Competencies:
  • Problem-Solving Skills - ability to troubleshoot machinery and production issues efficiently, collaborating with others to resolve complex issues, adaptability to changing circumstances and willingness to implement new procedures.
  • Continuous Improvement - Commitment to continuous improvement practices to enhance production efficiency and product quality.
  • Troubleshooting - Proficiency in troubleshooting process and equipment issues to minimize downtime and waste.
  • Documentation Skills - accurate recording of production data, completion of required paperwork or electronic documentation, and maintenance of organized records.
  • Safety and Compliance: Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures to ensure a safe working environment, enforcement of safety protocols and training of team members on safety measures. Timely and accurately completes monthly Alchemy training.
  • Communication Skills - Effective verbal and written communication with team members and supervisors, reporting issues accurately, and collaborating to ensure smooth workflow. Follows equipment down-time escalation process schedule.
  • Training and Development: Ability to train new hires on production processes and procedures and provide ongoing training and development opportunities for existing team members. Foster skill development and career growth.

Education and Experience:
  • High School Certification or equivalent (GED)
  • 3-5 years relevant work experience in a manufacturing environment

Working Conditions:
  • Work Schedule: Weekdays, weekends, afternoon, evenings, overnight and holidays may be required. Overtime scheduled as needed.
  • Work Environment: Operating in a fast-paced production plant with numerous moving parts. Noise levels require hearing protection and temperatures can get very hot and/or relatively cold. The environment is structured and supervised, with clear production targets and schedules to meet.

Travel Requirements:
  • Travel anticipated: Rarely

Physical Requirements:
R = Rarely (0-15%) O = Occasionally (16-45%) F = Frequently (46-100%)
Physical Demand
R
O
F
Stand or Sit
X
Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
X
Lifting 50 lbs. (minimum lbs. lifted 5 lbs.)
X
Carry weight, lift
X
Walking
X
Driving
X
Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance
X
  • Visual/Sensory - This position requires attention to detail, requiring attention with one or two senses at a time.
  • Coordination and Dexterity: Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for precise control of equipment.
  • Mental Stress - There is pronounced pressure from deadlines, production quotas, accuracy, or similar demands.

Other Duties:
  • This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Refresco is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national orientation, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, Veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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