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Lead Production Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Production Lead Operator shall be responsible for operations of the production department and safety of the production team members in the absence of a Supervisor. The Production Lead Operator ...

The Production Lead Operator shall be responsible for operations of the production department and safety of the production team members in the absence of a Supervisor. The Production Lead Operator ...

The Production Lead Operator shall be responsible for operations of the production department and safety of the production team members in the absence of a Supervisor. The Production Lead Operator ...

The Production Lead Operator shall be responsible for operations of the production department and safety of the production team members in the absence of a Supervisor. The Production Lead Operator ...

Lead Production Operator

Rose Hill, NC

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Job Summary The Lead Production Operator is responsible for overseeing the timely and efficient flow of raw materials into high-quality finished products; this may also include ensuring that ...

Lead Production Operator

Rose Hill, NC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Job SummaryThe Lead Production Operator is responsible for overseeing the timely and efficient flow of raw materials into high-quality finished products; this may also include ensuring that equipment ...

Production Operator 1

Ham Lake, MN · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

May assist the Lead Production Operator and Supervisor to resolve issues * May provide minimal equipment maintenance as directed * May provide hands on job function training/support to coworkers as ...

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Lead Production Operator information

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$12

$22

$35

How much do lead production operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead production operator in the United States is $22.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead production operator?

A Lead Production Operator oversees and coordinates the daily activities of production line workers in a manufacturing or processing facility. This role involves setting up equipment, monitoring production processes, ensuring quality standards are met, and troubleshooting issues as they arise. The Lead Production Operator also trains and mentors team members, maintains safety protocols, and often serves as the point of contact between management and the production team. Strong leadership, technical skills, and attention to detail are essential for success in this position.

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

To thrive as a Lead Production Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment operation, and safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with production management systems, quality control tools, and basic maintenance procedures is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help motivate teams and resolve issues efficiently. These abilities ensure smooth production flow, high-quality output, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are some common challenges lead production operators face when overseeing a production line?

Lead Production Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating team members with varying experience levels, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions under time pressure, and maintaining production targets while ensuring safety and quality standards. Balancing administrative responsibilities, like shift reports and inventory tracking, alongside hands-on supervision can also be demanding. Effective communication and quick problem-solving are key to successfully managing these challenges and maintaining a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Lead Production Operator vs Production Technician?

AspectLead Production OperatorProduction Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience in manufacturing; sometimes certifications in safety or equipment operationHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, production line, often supervisoryManufacturing or industrial setting, focused on equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, food production, chemical plantsUsed across similar industries, often working alongside Lead Operators

The Lead Production Operator typically oversees production processes, supervises team members, and ensures safety and efficiency, requiring leadership skills. Production Technicians focus on maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing equipment, often with technical certifications. Both roles are vital in manufacturing environments, but the Lead Production Operator has more supervisory responsibilities, while the Production Technician emphasizes technical expertise.

What are the responsibilities of a lead production operator?

A lead production operator oversees daily manufacturing operations, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency. They coordinate team activities, monitor equipment performance, troubleshoot issues, and enforce safety protocols, often using production management software. Strong communication skills and knowledge of production processes are essential for this role.
More about Lead Production Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Lead Production Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Production Operator job openings:

What states have the most Lead Production Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Production Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Lead Production Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,737 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Lead Production Operator

Evendale, OH • On-site


White Castle
Restaurants • 10K+ employees

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 106 rated fast food restaurants

Free food

Good employer

Recommended by students


$27.40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

When what you Crave is a job that combines creative, challenging and ever-changing work with an experienced, inclusive team committed to create memorable moments every day, only White Castle hits the spot!

We're America's first fast-food hamburger chain with more than a century of service to a nation of Cravers. But we're not satisfied with an impressive past. We've got our eye on an even tastier future, and we want you to be part of it! White Castle is always looking for passionate, energetic, results driven people to join our teams, so apply to start your White Castle career today!



2nd shift - 3pm - 1am

3rd shift - 10:00pm - 8am


The Production Lead Operator assists the Operations Supervisor and Plant Manager in plant operations to produce quality baked White Castle buns. The Production Lead Operator shall be responsible for operations of the production department and safety of the production team members in the absence of a Supervisor. The Production Lead Operator will at times work in the positions as operators for breaks, lunches, or shortage of team members when the need arises. Production Lead Operators are expected to uphold and demonstrate the Company's Core Values. This position description does not contain a comprehensive list of required duties and responsibilities. The Production Lead Operator is expected to perform related duties assigned by management, which may be added, revised, or eliminated based on business and operational needs, with or without advance notice. Production Lead Operators must follow the direction and guidance of the Assistant Operations Supervisor and the Plant Manager.


What we are looking for
  • High School Diploma or GED required;
  • Previous training and experience in the baking industry obtained through education or experience is preferred;
  • Must know how each piece of equipment operates;
  • Good interpersonal and human relations skills with ability to maintain a positive professional demeanor accepting responsibility and willingness to learn;
  • Knowledge, training, and experience with production, sanitation, quality, and safety;
  • Good verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively give clear instructions to direct and motivate team members;
  • Must have good employee relation skills, be team oriented, work well with others, and be able to give and receive direction and to follow clear and detailed instructions;
  • Acquire knowledge through training and coach and train others on equipment procedures and workplace health & safety procedures;
  • Efficiently work and respond in a fast-paced environment to meet operational demands;
  • Ability to diagnose production problems and work schedules;
  • Good understanding of HACCP, SSOP, GMPs, and knowledge of FDA regulations;
  • Proficient computer experience with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and warehouse management software (ERP/WMS);
  • Ability to successfully complete on-the-job training and/or AIB courses.



What you will do
  • Operate mixer to produce consistent dough for development of the White Castle bun;
  • Operate extruder to produce consistent dough pieces for development of the White Castle buns;
  • Make quality control inspections of the entire production process;
  • Direct production work and direct production operators in a fair, positive, and constructive manner;
  • Check and set equipment such as the proof box and oven and make dough adjustments when necessary;
  • Train employees to operate machines;
  • Final checker to ensure that there is no excessive flour in pans and that dough balls are properly panned;
  • Operate packaging machines including stacker, baggers, and box machine to bag and box all good quality baked product for palletizing and shipment;
  • Operate palletizer and fork truck to store packaged product for selection and shipment by the shipping department;
  • Carton stripping to sort through bad corrugated cartons for re-use in the box machine;
  • Ability to function efficiently in any of the production line positions which is acquired through observation and hands on experience;
  • Must be able to operate a forklift;
  • Utilize ERP system to track finished good;
  • Perform housekeeping duties as needed;
  • Attend various training classes or seminars as recommended by management;
  • Comply with incident reporting policies and procedures;
  • Ensure adherence to plant's security and safety policies and procedures, and a safe working environment for all Team Members;
  • Communicate effectively with customers and all levels of the organization in a professional manner, display a positive demeanor and be responsive to team members' needs; and
  • Must be flexible to work hours to meet the needs of the plant including any shift, overtime, weekends, and holidays.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

  • Ability to bend, turn, twist, climb, stoop, and stand;
  • Frequent lifting up to 50 lbs. assisted;
  • Capability to work in an environment with frequent exposure to flour dust, extreme cold, wet, hot, or dusty and other elements;
  • Wearing of safety gear including safety glasses, and other various types of safety gear supplied by the company;
  • Frequent periods of standing and walking; and
  • Ability to hear, comprehend, and professionally respond to co-worker inquiries, comments, and concerns.


Pay Rate: $27.40 hourly


Can you say #dreamjob!?! If you are awesome and want to work for a company that will think so too, apply online!


Benefits while working at White Castle:


  • Sick pay
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Dental & Vision
  • Life & AD&D
  • Paid Holiday
  • Paid Breaks
  • Incentive programs/bonus
  • Shift premium
  • Paid vacation
  • Medical, dental & life insurance
  • Weekly paychecks
  • 401K & profit sharing plans
  • Promote from within practice
  • And more!!


If you meet the minimum qualifications above, APPLY NOW!

White Castle is an Equal Opportunity Employer



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