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Lead Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NICB LLC

3rd Shift Corrugator Operator

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$25.55/hr

The Corrugator Operator serves as the lead operator on the corrugator and is responsible for maintaining a safe, efficient, and quality-focused operation. Shift Information This position is being ...

AMRESCO

Sr. Operator

Carpinteria, CA

$50K - $80K/yr

The Sr. Operator will be working independently and in coordination with the Lead Operator of Manufacturing or Supervisor. They are responsible for the accurate and compliant manufacturing of various ...

New

Avantor, Inc.

Sr. Operator

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

The Sr. Operator will be working independently and in coordination with the Lead Operator of Manufacturing or Supervisor. They are responsible for the accurate and compliant manufacturing of various ...

Avantor Fluid Handling, LLC

Sr. Operator

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

The Sr. Operator will be working independently and in coordination with the Lead Operator of Manufacturing or Supervisor. They are responsible for the accurate and compliant manufacturing of various ...

New

Avantor Inc.

Sr. Operator

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

The Sr. Operator will be working independently and in coordination with the Lead Operator of Manufacturing or Supervisor. They are responsible for the accurate and compliant manufacturing of various ...

New

Hubbell Incorporated

EDM Lead

Carson, CA

$22 - $29.70/hr

Job Overview The Wire EDM Lead Operator is responsible for setup, programming, operation, and optimization of wire EDM machines while leading and supporting operators to ensure parts are produced ...

Clorox

Packaging Operator (3rd Shift)

Fairfield, CA

$29/hr

Day to day general direction is provided by the Lead Operator and the Packaging Manager. Starting Hourly Rate: $29.00 per hour + $1.30 Shift Differential Work Hours: Sunday - Thursday 10:00 PM to 6 ...

Blue Diamond Growers

RTE Operator - Entry

Turlock, CA · On-site

$32/hr

Receives guidelines from supervisor/lead operator but is expected to decide what actions to take when handling all but the most unusual task. * Must regularly exercise discretion and independent ...

Blue Diamond Growers

RTE Operator - Entry

Turlock, CA

$32/hr

Receives guidelines from supervisor/lead operator but is expected to decide what actions to take when handling all but the most unusual task. * Must regularly exercise discretion and independent ...

New

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Receives instructions on specific job task by Lead Operator or Supervisor. Assistance is furnished on unusual problems and work is reviewed for application of sound professional judgment. * Other ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Receives instructions on specific job task by Lead Operator or Supervisor. Assistance is furnished on unusual problems and work is reviewed for application of sound professional judgment. * Other ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsLead Operator JobsLead Operator Jobs in California

Lead Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do lead operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead operator in California is $24.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Operator, you need strong technical expertise in machine operation, process control, and a solid understanding of safety protocols, often supported by relevant industry certifications or vocational training. Familiarity with manufacturing software systems, SCADA, and maintenance management tools is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you coordinate teams and manage production challenges efficiently. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient operations and motivating teams to meet production targets.

What is the difference between Lead Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectLead OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often some technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training may be required
Work EnvironmentSupervises team, oversees operations, ensures safetyOperates machinery, follows operational procedures
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, oil & gas, and processing plantsCommon in manufacturing, construction, and production facilities

The main difference between a Lead Operator and a Machine Operator is that the Lead Operator typically supervises and coordinates the work of Machine Operators, ensuring safety and efficiency, while Machine Operators focus on operating specific machinery. Lead Operators often have additional responsibilities such as training team members and troubleshooting issues, making their role more supervisory within the same work environment.

What are Lead Operators?

Lead Operators are experienced professionals who oversee the daily operations of a team or process within a manufacturing plant, industrial site, or similar setting. They are responsible for ensuring production runs smoothly, maintaining safety standards, and providing guidance to other operators. In addition to monitoring equipment and processes, Lead Operators often train new employees, troubleshoot issues, and communicate with management about production goals and challenges. Their leadership helps ensure efficiency, quality, and safety in the workplace.

How does a Lead Operator typically collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth production processes?

Lead Operators play a crucial role in cross-departmental collaboration by coordinating with maintenance, quality assurance, and logistics teams to address production issues promptly and maintain workflow efficiency. They often facilitate communication between operators and management, relay production targets, and help resolve bottlenecks. Regular meetings and shift handovers are common practices to keep all stakeholders aligned, ensuring that production goals are met while maintaining safety and quality standards.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Operator jobs in California? For Lead Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Operator jobs in California are:
Lead Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,379 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

3rd Shift Corrugator Operator

NICB LLC

La Mirada, CA • On-site

$25.55/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Corrugator Operator
Department: Production
Reports To: Corrugator Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Corrugator Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the corrugator to produce high-quality corrugated sheets that meet customer specifications, production schedules, and company quality standards. This position oversees the overall performance of the corrugator, coordinates workflow with production team members, monitors machine performance, and makes operational adjustments to maximize productivity while minimizing waste and downtime. The Corrugator Operator serves as the lead operator on the corrugator and is responsible for maintaining a safe, efficient, and quality-focused operation.
Shift Information
This position is being hired to support the future 3rd Shift operation. New hires will complete training on 1st or 2nd Shift to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for the role. Upon successful completion of training and as production needs require, employees will transition to their permanent 3rd Shift assignment once the shift has been fully established.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operate and oversee all aspects of the corrugator to ensure safe, efficient, and continuous production.
  • Review production schedules and job specifications to ensure machine setup meets customer requirements.
  • Coordinate production activities with Double Backer Operators, Single Facer Operators, Dry End Operators, Assistant Operators, and Material Handlers.
  • Monitor machine performance and make operational adjustments to maintain production efficiency and product quality.
  • Ensure finished corrugated sheets meet quality standards, including dimensions, flute profile, adhesive bond, moisture content, warp, caliper, and overall appearance.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, operational, and quality issues while working closely with Maintenance and Production leadership to minimize downtime.
  • Oversee machine startups, shutdowns, product changeovers, and grade changes.
  • Monitor production rates, waste, downtime, and machine efficiencies while identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
  • Verify production orders, quality documentation, and operational records are completed accurately.
  • Ensure compliance with all company safety policies, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, machine guarding requirements, and PPE standards.
  • Train and mentor Assistant Operators and other production employees on safe operating procedures and best practices.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with housekeeping and 5S standards.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
Experience
  • Minimum of three (3) years of manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Previous corrugator operating experience required.
  • Experience operating and troubleshooting corrugator equipment in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
  • Leadership or lead operator experience preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Comprehensive knowledge of corrugator operations and corrugated sheet manufacturing processes.
  • Strong understanding of board quality characteristics, including flute formation, adhesive bond, moisture control, caliper, warp, and sheet quality.
  • Ability to interpret production schedules, job specifications, and quality standards.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
  • Ability to coordinate workflow and effectively communicate with production team members.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Commitment to workplace safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a 10-12-hour shift.
  • Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, climb, reach, push, pull, and twist.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
  • Ability to work around moving mechanical equipment in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to work in conditions involving heat, dust, noise, vibration, and varying temperatures.
  • Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe footwear.
Schedule Requirements
  • Ability to work the assigned shift, including overtime, weekends, and holidays, as business needs require.
  • Willingness to train on 1st or 2nd Shift before transitioning to the permanent 3rd Shift assignment.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential to support continuous manufacturing operations.

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