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Lead Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Document all relevant data specific to unit's electro-magnetic characteristics, operating ... to cutting-edge machinery and technology. This job is On-site. Contact information Talent ...

Document all relevant data specific to unit's electro-magnetic characteristics, operating ... to cutting-edge machinery and technology. This job is On-site. Contact information Talent ...

Production Lead / Machine Operator Allegiance Staffing is hiring a Production Lead / Machine Operator for a growing company in the Louisville area. This is a hands-on role for someone who is ...

Lead Machine Press Operator

Godfrey, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Company Description If you consider yourself a machine whisperer and enjoy a well-organized yet noisy or dirty work environment, we'd love to have you join our team as a lead machine press operator.

LEAD MACHINE OPERATOR I

Largo, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Ability to operate complex production machinery and related equipment. * Ability to lead, direct, and train others on tasks that will be performed. * Ability to assist in the diagnosis and repair of ...

Lead Machine Press Operator

Godfrey, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Company Description If you consider yourself a machine whisperer and enjoy a well-organized yet noisy or dirty work environment, we'd love to have you join our team as a lead machine press operator.

LEAD MACHINE OPERATOR I

Largo, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Ability to operate complex production machinery and related equipment. * Ability to lead, direct, and train others on tasks that will be performed. * Ability to assist in the diagnosis and repair of ...

Machine Operator

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator * Willing and able to cross-train on other aspects of the production process * Other duties may be ...

Machine Operator

San Martin, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator * Willing and able to cross-train on other aspects of the production process * Other duties may be ...

Overview Machine Operator Location: New Paltz, NY Pay: $19.00-$23.00 per hour (based on experience ... Lead machine crew members to meet daily production, quality, and safety goals. * Read and follow ...

Machine Operator Location: New Paltz, NY Pay: $19.00-$23.00 per hour (based on experience) Schedule ... Lead machine crew members to meet daily production, quality, and safety goals. * Read and follow ...

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Lead Machine Operator information

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$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?

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

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 - 2nd Shift

KIK Consumer Product

Salem, VA

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

We Create Products and Brands That People Trust to Clean, Sanitize, and Protect Their Homes and Pools

When you join KIK Consumer Products, you're joining a team that cares about the work we do and also about each other. We bring exceptional brands and products to consumers that help them protect the health and wellness of their families and the cleanliness of their homes and pools. We are committed to building a culture of performance driven by accountability, collaboration, and agility that enables timely fact-based decision-making and exceptional execution with unwavering ethics. As one of North America's largest independent manufacturers of consumer products, KIK helps a large portfolio of brands and retailers bring their products to life.

Your Role at KIK

We are seeking a Lead Machine Operator on 2nd Shift (4:00pm - 2:30am, Monday-Thursday with weekends per business need), where you will oversee the filling and packaging operations for your shift. You will lead a team of operators running highspeed equipment such as fillers, labelers, drop packers, case erectors, palletizers, bottle unscramblers, and case sealers while directing line manning and scheduling to meet production goals. In this workinglead role, you will monitor line performance, address mechanical and process upsets, and coordinate closely with Maintenance, Warehouse, and Quality to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency targets are achieved. This position has an hourly rate of $25.00 plus a $1.00 shift differential.

What You'll Do

  • Oversee filling and packaging operations for assigned lines by directing manning, coordinating schedules, and ensuring all equipment is running safely and efficiently.
  • Operate and monitor production equipment (fillers, labelers, drop packers, case erectors, palletizers, bottle unscramblers, case sealers), reacting quickly to jams, quality issues, or other disruptions.
  • Maintain vigilance for any upsets in the filling operation, identify mechanical or process needs, and work with Maintenance to address equipment issues.
  • Train, guide, and motivate operators; provide onthejob coaching on machine operation, basic troubleshooting, quality checks, and safety practices.
  • Maintain accurate time, production, and downtime records; review data with supervisors to drive improvement and meet production plans.
  • Ensure quality standards are met by verifying codes, fills, packaging integrity, and appearance, and by partnering with Quality to resolve nonconformances.
  • Communicate clearly with downline associates, supervisors, managers, Maintenance, and Warehouse to coordinate material flow, changeovers, and issue resolution.
  • Promote and enforce a "Safety First" culture by following and supporting all safety and GMP programs, immediately addressing or escalating unsafe conditions.

What You'll Bring

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 3 or more years of experience in a highspeed, automated filling/packaging environment 
  • 1 or more years as a Lead/Line Operator with strong process and equipment knowledge (Preferred)
  • Advanced knowledge of production line equipment (fillers, labelers, drop packers, case erectors, palletizers, bottle unscramblers, case sealers) and strong understanding of production processes, quality control, machine operation, troubleshooting, and downtime tracking.
  • Proven ability to lead, train, and develop team members while driving productivity and maintaining a qualityfocused, resultsdriven mindset.
  • Excellent communication and problemsolving skills, with the ability to stay "one step ahead" in a fastpaced environment and collaborate effectively with crossfunctional teams.
  • Strong commitment to safety and the ability to recognize and correct unsafe conditions.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 12 hours) and to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 60 lbs as needed.
  • Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and walking while working on and around production equipment.
  • Comfortable working in a factory environment with varying temperatures, strong odors/fumes, high noise levels, and wearing all required PPE.

What You Will Get

KIK offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including health, wellness, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. You can plan for your future with KIK's retirement savings options including employer match. KIK also recognizes the importance of continuing education and offers Education Assistance to our employees to encourage continued personal development and growth. 

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. This position has an hourly rate of $25.00 plus a $1.00 shift differential. The actual hourly rate may vary based upon several factors including your relevant skills and experience.

About KIK

We create the products and brands that people trust to clean, sanitize, and protect their homes and pools. We are one of North America's largest independent consumer product manufacturers with 16 North American manufacturing facilities. We also operate globally in Canada, Europe, South Africa, and Australia. We are known for our portfolio of notable brands including Spic and Span and Comet cleaning products, Clorox Pool&Spa (under license), BioGuard, and Natural Chemistry pool chemicals. We are also the #1 producer in North America of store-brand bleach and a leading private-label provider of laundry detergent and additives, dishwashing products, general-purpose cleaning, and other home care products.

Our global team of over 2,300 employees drives our capabilities in product development, product formulation, strategic sourcing, manufacturing, packaging design, brand marketing, project management, quality assurance, compliance, distribution, and logistics.

Our organization is constantly evolving and is driven by a set of "One KIK" values - a dedication to following through on commitments in a customer-focused, profit-motivated way; while never compromising on safety, ethics, or integrity.

KIK is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. KIK does not discriminate against qualified applicants or employees based on race, color, age, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or uniformed services status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information or any other status protected by law. 

KIK is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with protected disabilities to the extent required by applicable laws. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application, or interview process, or to perform the essential functions of the job, please contact Human Resources immediately.

Privacy Policy: https://www.kikcorp.com/privacy-policy-applicant