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Lead Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Inframark

Lead Operator

Brookshire, TX · On-site

JOB FUNCTION/ PURPOSE The Lead Operator is responsible for training and overseeing the daily activities of Operators and solving complex operations problems and performing maintenance/operations ...

Energy transfer

Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

Perform all other duties as assigned. * Assist with other duties or special projects as directed by the Shift Supervisor/Lead Operator. Required education: * High school diploma or GED * Basic ...

Lummus Technology

Operator II

Pasadena, TX · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Identify unsafe conditions, abnormal operating conditions, or process deviations and immediately communicate concerns to the Development Engineer, Supervisor, or Lead Operator. Plant Operations

Lummus Technology

Operator II

Pasadena, TX

$16 - $21/hr

Identify unsafe conditions, abnormal operating conditions, or process deviations and immediately communicate concerns to the Development Engineer, Supervisor, or Lead Operator. Plant Operations

GENAN INC

Operator Logistics

Houston, TX · On-site

$50K/yr

Summary The Operator works in the Logistics department and efficiently moves product between the ... Conducts quality control checks on bags and inform Lead or Yard Manager of material defects

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All JobsLead Operator JobsLead Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Lead Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do lead operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead operator in Houston, TX is $23.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.63 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.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Lead Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

Lead Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,749 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Lead Operator

Inframark

Brookshire, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Inframark rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Join Inframark: Leading the Way in Water Management
Ready to build a career and make your community better? At Inframark, we manage and maintain municipal water and wastewater systems, ensuring clean, safe, and reliable water services for communities. It's more than just a job - it's a chance to grow, learn, and be part of something that matters! Ready to make a difference? Apply Today!
Why Work for Inframark?
Our dedication to sustainability and community impact drives us to ensure clean, safe water for future generations. Whether you're at the start of your career or looking for advancement, Inframark offers purpose-driven work and opportunities for growth. We offer an attractive salary package, including a generous benefits package with health, dental, and life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and wellness plan.
JOB FUNCTION/ PURPOSE
The Lead Operator is responsible for training and overseeing the daily activities of Operators and solving complex operations problems and performing maintenance/operations activities at water/wastewater treatment facilities.
Water/Wastewater license required
B Water and Wastewater license required
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Manages day-to-day activities of operating and maintenance of treatment facilities.
  • Allocates work and provides technical direction, assistance and training to other personnel.
  • Ensures that all SOPs are followed, and DOT, OSHA and other requirements are met. Makes recommendations for improving SOPs.
  • Interacts with Operations Manager to ensure safety and permit compliance.
  • Interacts with contract laboratories to ensure proper reporting limits and any QA/QC issues
  • Communicates with client and customers related to routine technical aspects of operations and responds to inquiries.
  • Trains employees on proper plant operations, repair and installation techniques, SOPs and safe work practices.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 5-7 years water/wastewater experience. Previous supervisory experience preferred.
Licenses/Certifications: Valid Driver's License (CDL preferred). Water/Wastewater Operator's License specific to state and site-specific requirements. Other licenses may vary according to specific site and assignments.
Technical: Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications & internet. Ability to work with basic office equipment & phone systems. Working knowledge of OSHA requirements, DOT regulations & Utility SOPs. Advanced knowledge of process control measures.
Communication: Communicates clearly & professionally. Contributes to a positive internal & external customer experience. Maintains composure in challenging situations. Collaborates with others. Asks for constructive feedback. Promotes a culture of diversity, respect & accountability. Challenges other through productive discussion.
Problem Solving & Quality: Pays attention to detail. Identifies & solves complex issues. Thinks "big picture" when assessing problems/opportunities. Develops innovative & creative solutions.
Managing For Results: Follows all company policies & SOPs. Delegates, prioritizes & manages the work of others. Balances competing priorities, scheduling issues & deadlines. Delivers effective feedback. Manages cost, quality & expedience.
Leadership & Initiative: Motivates & empowers others. Acts in accordance with company vision, mission & values. Takes accountability for own performance. Willing to take on additional assignments. Seeks out opportunities for leadership & development. Trains, coaches & mentors others. Champions change.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to: frequently lift 50-60 pounds; load, unload & move large equipment/tools; access confined spaces; continuously walk and climb stairs and ladders.
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
To support a safe and secure workplace, all offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of background screening, drug testing, and driving record review where applicable.
Inframark is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability.
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