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Lead Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

WIN Waste Innovations is looking for a Lead Operator. Responsibilities: * Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures. Assists in ensuring the ...

WIN Waste Innovations is looking for a Lead Operator. Responsibilities: * Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures. Assists in ensuring the ...

BOTTLING OPERATOR

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Assist the Lead Operator in the setup, operation, and monitoring of assigned bottling lines. Perform packaging and bottling activities in compliance with cGMP regulations, SOPs, safety requirements ...

As a Lead Operator, you'll take charge of daily operations and help guide the team behind some of the world's most loved brands - delivering quality, care, and consistency in every product we make.

New

Digital Lead Operator 2nd Shift

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

Our Digital Lead Operator will operate and maintain digital printing equipment, help supervise and support the team in our digital press room, and help to assist the Digital Manager in the day-to-day ...

Digital Lead Operator 2nd Shift

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

Our Digital Lead Operator will operate and maintain digital printing equipment, help supervise and support the team in our digital press room, and help to assist the Digital Manager in the day-to-day ...

Chemical Operator

Somerville, NJ · On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Under the close direction of the Production Supervisor and/or Lead Operator, the Chemical Operator I is responsible for the majority of the material handling tasks in the manufacturing department.

Developer Experience Lead

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$158.88 - $220/hr

Define the standards, processes, and operating rhythms that let a small team eventually support ... Lead Bank benefits are designed to support culture and principles to foster an efficient and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Operator information

See New York salary details

$16

$26

$38

How much do lead operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead operator in New York is $26.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead operator?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead operator?

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.

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 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.

Infographic showing various Lead Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,847 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Lead Operator

Orangeburg, NY • On-site

TeleSearch Staffing Solutions
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Lead Operator

Location: Orangeburg, NY
Shifts Available: 1st & 2nd Shift
Start: Quick Start Available
We're looking for experienced Lead Operators to join a growing manufacturing team in Orangeburg, NY. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for supporting daily production, ensuring quality standards, and helping the team meet production goals in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead and support machine operators to achieve daily production goals.
  • Review production schedules, work instructions, and job specifications.
  • Coordinate machine changeovers and ensure materials and staffing are ready.
  • Perform and document quality checks throughout production.
  • Complete production reports, transfer tickets, labels, and other required documentation.
  • Monitor production efficiency and address quality or machine issues.
  • Work closely with mechanics, quality control, and supervisors to resolve production concerns.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety policies and report incidents or near misses.
  • Help train and support team members while promoting continuous improvement.

Requirements:
  • 1–2 years of manufacturing experience, including leadership or lead operator experience preferred.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Must be able to communicate in English (reading, writing, and speaking).
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
  • Reliable transportation to and from work is required.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand and walk throughout the entire shift.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Basic computer skills and experience completing production documentation.
  • Willingness to work overtime as needed.

Work Environment:
  • Manufacturing/production facility.
  • Standing, walking, bending, and repetitive motion throughout the shift.
  • Exposure to machinery noise and varying temperatures.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
  • Overtime may be available based on production needs.

Apply today for a quick start! Immediate openings on 1st and 2nd shift.

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About Telesearch Staffing Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

TeleSearch Staffing Solutions is a full service staffing firm with a knowledgeable and experienced staff that is well known for providing quality service throughout New Jersey.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Flanders, NJ, US

Year founded

1991

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