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Lead Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dart Container

Lead Machine Operator

Leola, PA · On-site

$28/hr

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

Leola, PA · On-site

$28/hr

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

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

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

Leola, PA · On-site

$28/hr

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

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 ...

CHEER PACK

Lead Machine Operator

West Bridgewater, MA · On-site

$20/hr

... Lead is responsible for operating and overseeing pouch-making equipment. This role includes directing and supporting pouch-making operators, monitoring production, and making necessary machine ...

Investment Farms

Machine Operator Lead

Plymouth, WA · On-site

The Lead Machine Operator is a skilled role that oversees daily line operations and helps coordinate machine operators across different lines or shifts. This person is the main technical resource ...

schwarzpartners

Machine Operator Lead

Bethel, NC · On-site

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 ...

Staffingine LLC

Production Lead Machine Operator

Lancaster, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Production Lead Machine Operator Job Location: Lancaster, TX Job Type: Full-Time : * Lead the crew including operators, operator assistants, feeders, packers, and inspectors on the machine. * Act as ...

Independence Corrugated

Machine Operator Lead

Bethel, NC · 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 ...

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Lead Machine Operator information

See salary details

$15

$24

$35

How much do lead machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

More about Lead Machine Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Lead Machine Operator jobs?

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?

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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 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% 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.

Lead Machine Operator

Dart Container

Leola, PA • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Dart Container rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Do you have a passion for precision, a mind for machines, and a natural talent for leadership?
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 level with a leadership role that keeps you on the floor and in the action.
Shift Availability:
  • 7:00 pm - 7:00 am

Who we are...
We're your top choice for foam cups, classic red SOLO cups, and convenient take-out containers, ensuring you can enjoy your food and drinks anytime, anywhere. Join us, and let's raise a cup to good times!
What we offer...
  • Competitive pay starting at $28.00 per hour
  • Excellent benefits package, including health, dental, vision, 401K and more!
  • Ability to earn pay increases and advancement opportunities
  • Weekly pay
  • A supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritizes safety
  • Approved job-related training and tuition reimbursement
  • Paid holidays and paid time off

What you'll do...
  • Provide lead support over machine operations within the plant that may span multiple departments, production lines, processes and/or technologies
  • Audit the floor as required by Leader Standard Work, monitor productivity metrics, verify adherence to procedures and standard work, correct deficiencies and escalate to supervisor as necessary
  • Coordinate with supervisor to review and maintain schedules to ensure resources are available to meet schedule. Ensure that accurate information is reported, and the appropriate paperwork is completed and turned in
  • Communicate with oncoming shifts about any problems or issues that are occurring. Work with other departments to maintain or improve communications
  • Notify supervisor immediately and recommend solutions if there are issues that will prevent achievement of efficiency goals

What you'll need...
  • At least two (2) years of related machine operating experience working in a fast-paced work environment
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Demonstrated leadership skills
  • Advanced mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot complex problems including knowledge of machines and tools, their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance
  • Demonstration of minimum proficiency with the English language in order to ensure effective new hire training and on-going communications about safety and quality issues

Apply now and take the next step in your career with a company that values hard work, leadership, and continuous improvement!
Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years. We're a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we're proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.
Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.
Dart Container is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.
*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/
If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.
If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.

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