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Lead Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

As a lead operator, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating and assisting with the activities of associates engaged in maintaining and operating all equipment within our manufacturing ...

Apply Early

As a lead operator, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating and assisting with the activities of associates engaged in maintaining and operating all equipment within our manufacturing ...

Apply Early

Lead Operator

Muncie, IN ยท On-site

$22.39 - $27/hr

Description Ready to take the lead in Muncie, Indiana? We're seeking a motivated and skilled Lead Operator for an exciting temp-to-hire opportunity. If you're looking for a role where you can shine ...

Lead Operator (Nights)

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The Lead Operator ensures adherence to all accident prevention programs and leads operations to ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and other standards. The Lead Operator also maintains ...

Lead Operator (Nights)

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The Lead Operator ensures adherence to all accident prevention programs and leads operations to ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and other standards. The Lead Operator also maintains ...

Knowledge of basic operating machinery * Practice world class safety practices, every day. * Participate in monthly safety talks with production departments or as required. * Participate in quality ...

Knowledge of basic operating machinery * Practice world class safety practices, every day. * Participate in monthly safety talks with production departments or as required. * Participate in quality ...

Lead Operator (Nights)

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The Lead Operator ensures adherence to all accident prevention programs and leads operations to ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and other standards. The Lead Operator also maintains ...

Company Description To operate Cardline that produce fiber products in a safe and efficient manner following standard operating procedures. Qualifications Minimum - High School Diploma and/or three ...

Company Description To operate Cardline that produce fiber products in a safe and efficient manner following standard operating procedures. Qualifications BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Must be physically ...

Lead Operator, Fowler

Fowler, IN ยท On-site

$25/hr

Lead Operator, Fowler | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Lead Operator, Fowler | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Bindery Operator 1 - Days

Crawfordsville, IN ยท On-site

$22 - $27.40/hr

Participate in training to prepare to promote into a Lead operator position * Inspect equipment for safety issues * Monitor quality, output and productivity * Learn to utilize tools to measure and ...

As a Lead Operator, you will train and assist associates with basic maintenance, inspections, and measurements of multiple parts and products. Submit a quick application today! Perks & Benefits

Extruder Operator

Evansville, IN ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

... lead operator of a twin screw extruder - Strong knowledge of production processes and equipment operation - Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills - Ability to work well in a team ...

Extruder Operator

Evansville, IN ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

... lead operator of a twin screw extruder - Strong knowledge of production processes and equipment operation - Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills - Ability to work well in a team ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do lead operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead operator in Indiana is $23.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.54 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 the duties and responsibilities of an operator?

A lead operator is responsible for overseeing the operation of machinery or equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and maintaining production efficiency. They monitor processes, troubleshoot issues, and may train or supervise other operators, often using control systems and requiring relevant certifications. Attention to detail and adherence to safety standards are essential in this role.

What jobs work with lead?

Lead operators often work alongside other production or manufacturing staff, including machine operators, technicians, and supervisors. They coordinate tasks, oversee operations, and ensure safety and efficiency in the workplace, often requiring knowledge of equipment and safety protocols.

What jobs make around $100,000 a year?

Lead Operators in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, or power generation can earn around $100,000 annually, especially with experience and specialized skills. Higher salaries often require certifications, overtime, or working in high-demand environments. Other related roles include plant managers or technical supervisors with similar compensation levels.

What is the highest salary for a plant operator?

Lead plant operators can earn salaries up to $80,000 to $100,000 or more annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced certifications and extensive technical skills can contribute to higher compensation in this role.
Infographic showing various Lead Operator job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,575 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Lead Operator

HEARTLAND AUTOMOTIVE LLC

Greencastle, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Description:

Summary:

As a lead operator, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating and assisting with the activities of associates engaged in maintaining and operating all equipment within our manufacturing environment. Your responsibilities include training and guiding all associates, ensuring safety and quality standards, and actively participating in continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

  1. Training and assistance:
  • Train and assist associates in performing preventative maintenance assignments.
  • Perform Machine setup and operate machinery in a safe manner.
  • Ensure accurate recording and disposal of scrap daily. Complete rework at the end of each day.

2. Leadership and supervision:

  • Lead, motivate and fill in for associates when necessary.
  • Understand and operate individual process stations on all equipment.
  • Clear all faults and restart machines promptly.

3. Quality assurance:

  • Inform Team leader or Production manager of all quality issues promptly.
  • Inspect and measure parts and products to verify conformance to specifications.

4. Documentation and communication:

  • Accurate completion of paperwork and data entry.
  • Maintain 5s standards.

5. Production Monitoring and reporting:

  • Monitor Absenteeism and maintain time and production records.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve and maintain TPM goals.

6. Continuous improvement:

  • Analyze work problems, provide input, and assist associates in solving work problems.
  • Support and participate in continuous improvement programs for Environmental Health and Safety IS0 1400 compliance.

7. Training and development:

  • Train associates, maintain and verify performance levels. Update records and keep daily records of progress and scrap.
  • Conduct cross-training sessions for associates.

8. Emergency response:

  • Take responsibility for all associates in your area during emergencies.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and or ability required.

  • Highschool Diploma or equivalent with two years of manufacturing experience (Heartland Automotive LLC. Experience preferred) experience will be accepted in lieu of education.
  • Leadership and decision-making skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and effective verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Excel and Microsoft office suite.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Lead and guide associates on specific manufacturing lines, including training, planning, directing work and resolving problems as they arise.

Language skills: ability to read, analyze information, draft reports, and work instructions. Effective presentation and response to questions.

Mathematical skills: ability to work with basic mathematical concepts.

Reasoning ability: Ability to solve practical problems and interpret a variety of instructions.

Additional job Responsibilities: Develop and maintain a positive attitude, promote teamwork, and actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Health and safety conditions: Awareness of potential work and environmental hazards. Compliance with PPE (personal protective equipment) requirements in accordance with SWI (standard work instructions).

Physical Demands: Regular use of hands, standing for extended periods up to entirety of shift, sitting and lifting to 80 pounds. Specific vision abilities required.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Job descriptions are not intended to create a contract of employment. Employment with Heartland Automotive LLC is voluntarily entered, and the employee is free to resign at will at any time, with or without cause. Similarly, Heartland Automotive LLC may terminate the employment relationship at will at any time, with or without notice or cause, so long as there is not a violation of applicable federal or state law.


Requirements:

Requirements for Lead Operator are as follows:

  • Quality and Safety Minded
  • Strong Communication skills
  • Good Leadership and Training Skills
  • Positive approach that promotes teamwork
  • Able to make decisions pertaining to parts meeting quality standards
  • Good Attendance
  • Capable of Directing associates assigned to inspection duties
  • Self-Motivated
  • Capable of implementing policies and procedures
  • Works well without direct supervision
  • Accurate record keeping ability
  • Computer experience
  • Willing to work overtime when needed

ยท Supports and participates in continuous improvement programs

ยท Proficient in comprehending Standard Work

ยท Assists in maintaining Standard Work and Training Records