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Lead Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

JBS USA

LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

Plainwell, MI

The Lead Waste Water Treatment Operator performs operations and maintenance duties on the company's wastewater collection and treatment system, including monitoring, operating and maintaining ...

JBS USA

LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

Plainwell, MI

The Lead Waste Water Treatment Operator performs operations and maintenance duties on the company's wastewater collection and treatment system, including monitoring, operating and maintaining ...

JBS USA

LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

Plainwell, MI

The Lead Waste Water Treatment Operator performs operations and maintenance duties on the company's wastewater collection and treatment system, including monitoring, operating and maintaining ...

JBS USA

LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

Plainwell, MI

The Lead Waste Water Treatment Operator performs operations and maintenance duties on the company's wastewater collection and treatment system, including monitoring, operating and maintaining ...

UACJ Automotive Whitehall

Lead Saw Operator

Ludington, MI · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Must be able to lead and promote a team environment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the ... New Employee orientation, On-The-Job, OJT refresher as needed, SPC, PPE, Operator Instructions ...

jbs

LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

Plainwell, MI · On-site

The Lead Waste Water Treatment Operator performs operations and maintenance duties on the company's wastewater collection and treatment system, including monitoring, operating and maintaining ...

Partners Group

Global Portfolio Procurement Lead

MI · On-site +1

The Global Portfolio Procurement Lead (Lead Operator) will own the procurement program across all regions, ensuring ongoing performance improvement, consistent global standards, and best practice ...

GFL Environmental

Lead Equipment Operator

Pontiac, MI

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Provide leadership to other operators and promote a positive employee/employer relationship. Key Responsibilities: Assist the Operations Supervisor with sustaining a productive and motivated ...

GFL Environmental

Lead Equipment Operator

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Provide leadership to other operators and promote a positive employee/employer relationship. Key Responsibilities: • Assist the Operations Supervisor with sustaining a productive and motivated ...

Ajax Paving

Asphalt Laborer - Raker/Shoveler

Troy, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Performs all functions as directed by foreman or lead operator in conjunction with preparation, layout, cleaning, paving, compaction, and finishing operations. * Follow all safety rules and ...

Ajax Paving

Concrete Laborer

Troy, MI · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Performs all functions as directed by foreman or lead operator in conjunction with preparation, layout, cleaning, paving, compaction, and finishing the operation * Operate small engine machines to ...

Hutch Paving

Lead Roller Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

Hutch Paving Inc. located in Warren, MI is seeking Asphalt Roller Operator. The person must perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites and will work with a paving crew laying ...

Hutch Paving

Lead Roller Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

Hutch Paving Inc. located in Warren, MI is seeking Asphalt Roller Operator. The person must perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites and will work with a paving crew laying ...

InfuSystem

Lead Warehouse Operator

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Warehouse Operator Lead will ensure the daily requirements/goals are met. IN THIS ROLE, THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF: * Receiving shipments of product and documenting as applicable

InfuSystem Inc.

Lead Warehouse Operator

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Warehouse Operator Lead will ensure the daily requirements/goals are met. IN THIS ROLE, THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF: * Receiving shipments of product and documenting as applicable

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All JobsLead Operator JobsLead Operator Jobs in Michigan

Lead Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do lead operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead operator in Michigan is $21.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.33 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.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Operator jobs in Michigan? For Lead Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Operator jobs in Michigan are:
Lead Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,492 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

LEAD WASTEWATER OPERATOR

JBS USA

Plainwell, MI

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:    
The Lead Waste Water Treatment Operator performs operations and maintenance duties on the company’s wastewater collection and treatment system, including monitoring, operating and maintaining equipment in compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and regulatory requirements.   
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES    
Include the following, Other duties may be assigned    
  • Responsible for the general operation, waste water related equipment. 
  • Make Waste water operation adjustment, and make hourly rounds.  
  • Reports Waste water treatment problems or concerns to General Foreman 
  • Monitors process for partial cases to be worked into the process. 
  • Other duties as assigned. 
  • Can cover absences as needed
  • Complete work orders
  • Good communication with Sanitation department
  • Be familiar with Biogas Burning Operations.
EXPECTATIONS – all Team Members
  
  • Observe & enforce all company personnel, quality, safety, and food safety policies. 
  • Maintains a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner so that you work effectively and cooperatively with customers, clients, coworkers, and leadership teams. 
  • Participates in process improvement and problem solving utilizing continuous improvement and rational thinking methodologies such as Six Sigma, and participates in or supports the E$P program 
  • Recognizes and acts on incidents and safety risks.  Consistently practices, and enforces safe work habits and drives those habits throughout the organization
                KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES
    
1.       1-2 year experience in the operations and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants associated ancillary and auxiliary equipment and distribution systems.   
2.       Must be able to read, write and comprehend the English language in order to communicate well.   
3.       Must have knowledge of maintenance/waste water language and terminology to effectively communicate within the department as well as to technical persons over the phone.   
4.       Show a comprehension of how to communicate effectively to individuals in a team setting.   
5.       Must be able to lift, push, or carry up to 50lbs.   
6.       Must have a valid driver license.   
                                                                                                    EOE, Including Disability/Vets

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