1

Lead Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities A Lead Operator is responsible for performing and maintaining the daily activities associated with a production line. This includes housekeeping, safety, quality, maintaining ...

Lead Operator

Bellevue, OH ยท On-site

$32.08/hr

Bunge is looking for a Lead Operator for our Bellevue, OH location. This position is responsible for leading a team of operators in a safe manner and providing guidance and a good example for all ...

Lead Operator

Oakdale, MN ยท On-site

$24/hr

Revolution is hiring Lead Operators to support its Oakdale, MN location. This role is a hands-on position leading stretch-film production line(s). The successful candidate will be involved in the ...

The Lead Operator oversees the operation and upkeep of pipelines, compressors, auxiliary equipment, pumps, dehydration systems, and other related machinery. Additionally, they support management in ...

Lead Operator

Stockton, CA ยท On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Act as the working team lead while performing regular duties of the Equipment Operators/Material Handlers, provide leadership to the crew. * Prioritize and perform multiple tasks with the ability to ...

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

Roanoke, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $28/hr

This position has multiple levels with advancement based on demonstrated Operator knowledge and ... Must lead by example by modeling fairness, consistency, and a high level of performance coupled ...

Assign operator I, II, III position within the work cell and rotate self and others as needed. * Confer with Lead II and Production Supervisor on rotating people in/out of the area when there is low ...

Assists in the training of operator trainees and new certified operators. Works with the Operations Chief in the preparation of employee performance evaluations. Collects samples for testing and ...

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 ...

Lead Operator

Houma, LA ยท On-site

Description We are currently seeking experienced Lead Production Operators to work in the Gulf of Mexico. You will serve as a key role with your knowledge and experience in operating a variety of ...

This position has multiple levels with advancement based on demonstrated Operator knowledge and ... Must lead by example by modeling fairness, consistency, and a high level of performance coupled ...

Serve as a"working"lead-activelyparticipatingin job duties alongside team members.I.E. - runmobile ... operating procedures Demonstrated ability to train and mentor team members Strong commitment to ...

Act as the working team lead while performing regular duties of the Equipment Operators/Material Handlers, provide leadership to the crew. * Prioritize and perform multiple tasks with the ability to ...

Lead Operator

Maple Plain, MN

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

The Lead Operator is a hands-on production lead who safely operates and supports manufacturing/assembly processes while coordinating day-to-day workflow for operators. This role prioritizes patient ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lead Operator information

See salary details

$15

$24

$35

How much do lead operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead operator in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.88 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.
More about Lead Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Operator jobs? Cities with the most Lead Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Operator jobs? The most popular types of Lead Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,047 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Lead Operator

Lead Operator

HEARTLAND AUTOMOTIVE LLC

Greencastle, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


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