ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lead Production Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sika AG

Production Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Receive and follow instructions from Production Lead/Production Supervisor. * Operate machines according to the operating procedures. * Operate a forklift and palletizer. Lift the raw materials and ...

Sika AG

Production Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Receive and follow instructions from Production Lead/Production Supervisor. * Operate machines according to the operating procedures. * Operate a forklift and palletizer. Lift the raw materials and ...

Sika

Production Operator

Riverside, CA

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Receive and follow instructions from Production Lead/Production Supervisor. * Operate machines according to the operating procedures. * Operate a forklift and palletizer. Lift the raw materials and ...

Niagara Bottling LLC

Production Operator Lead

Vernon, CA

$27.35 - $36.23/hr

Production Operator Lead This position is responsible for collaborating with the Production Supervisor to assist with daily operations of the production floor; ensuring the shift meets established ...

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Production Operator Lead

Vernon, CA · On-site

$27.35 - $36.23/hr

Production Operator Lead This position is responsible for collaborating with the Production Supervisor to assist with daily operations of the production floor; ensuring the shift meets established ...

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Production Operator Lead

Delano, CA · On-site

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

Production Operator Lead This position is responsible for daily operations of the production floor; ensuring the shift meets established safety, quality, and production goals in compliance with all ...

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Production Operator Lead

Vernon, CA · On-site

$27.35 - $36.23/hr

Production Operator Lead This position is responsible for collaborating with the Production Supervisor to assist with daily operations of the production floor; ensuring the shift meets established ...

Beyondmeat

Production Operator

Portola, CA

$23/hr

As a Production Operator, you will play a key supporting role in the production and packaging ... Prepare workstations, gather required tools, and retrieve daily batch sheets from Lead/Supervisors

Archer Meat Snacks

Production Operator

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The Operator is responsible for safely operating production equipment while ensuring food safety ... Communicates mechanical issues and troubleshooting efforts to the Team Lead for evaluation. When ...

Archer Meat Snacks

Production Operator

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The Operator is responsible for safely operating production equipment while ensuring food safety ... Communicates mechanical issues and troubleshooting efforts to the Team Lead for evaluation. When ...

nationalbeverage

Production Operator Lead

La Mirada, CA

$17 - $20.50/hr

... with production personnel and supervisors and the completion of required paperwork. ESSENTIAL ... other operators for lunch breaks. • Keep work area clean at all times. • Other duties as ...

National Beverage

Production Operator Lead

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

... with production personnel and supervisors and the completion of required paperwork. ESSENTIAL ... other operators for lunch breaks. • Keep work area clean at all times. • Other duties as ...

nationalbeverage

Production Operator Lead

La Mirada, CA

$17 - $20.50/hr

... with production personnel and supervisors and the completion of required paperwork. ESSENTIAL ... other operators for lunch breaks. • Keep work area clean at all times. • Other duties as ...

Pacer Staffing

Production Operator

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Safety Protocols, Operating Procedures, Labels and other Instructions). · Responsible for keeping ... lead or co-workers) · Required to track daily hourly production inputs in various systems, i.e.

New

Pacer Staffing

Production Operator

Lake Forest, CA

$19 - $20/hr

Safety Protocols, Operating Procedures, Labels and other Instructions). · Responsible for keeping ... lead or co-workers) · Required to track daily hourly production inputs in various systems, i.e.

New

SAS Automotive Inc. - USA

Production Operator

Newark, CA · On-site

$19.65/hr

1. Production and assembly work: Performs assigned assembly or production tasks according to work ... Report all Safety Incidents and work-related accidents to immediate Supervisor or Lead, must at all ...

Niagara Bottling LLC

Production Operator

Stockton, CA

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

Production Operator This position is responsible for daily operations of the production floor ... Lead Like an Owner * Makes safety the number one priority * Keeps alert for safety issues and ...

Niagara Bottling LLC

Production Operator

Stockton, CA

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

Production Operator This position is responsible for daily operations of the production floor ... Lead Like an Owner * Makes safety the number one priority * Keeps alert for safety issues and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Production Operator JobsLead Production Operator Jobs in California

Lead Production Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$34

How much do lead production operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead production operator in California is $22.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.42 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 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 duties of a production lead?

A production lead is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing operations, coordinating team activities, ensuring safety and quality standards are met, and maintaining production schedules. They often supervise operators, troubleshoot issues, and ensure efficient workflow using tools like production management software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Production Operator, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Lead Production Operators in manufacturing or industrial settings can earn around $4,000 weekly with experience, strong technical skills, and sometimes certifications. High-paying roles in trades such as commercial diving, certain construction management positions, or specialized skilled trades may also reach this income level without requiring a college degree.

What is the production operator's salary?

The salary for a lead production operator typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Many roles also include benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay, with some positions requiring certifications or specific technical skills.

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.

How much does a production lead make in the US?

A lead production operator in the US typically earns between $50,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often oversee production processes, coordinate teams, and ensure safety and quality standards are met.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Production Operator jobs in California? For Lead Production Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Production Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Production Operator jobs in California are:
Lead Production Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Production Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,125 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Production Operator

Sika AG

Riverside, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Company Description
With more than 100 years of experience, Sika is a worldwide innovation and sustainability leader in the development and production of systems and products for commercial and residential construction, as well as the transportation, marine, automotive, and renewable energy manufacturing industries.
Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world, produces in over 400 factories, and develops innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. Approximately 33,000 employees generated CHF 11.20 billion in sales in 2025.
Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic and results driven Production Operator to join our Building and Finishing Riverside Team.
This position contributes to the manufacturing process of Stucco, EIFS, Grouts, and other products. Sets up, start-up/shut down, loads and generally operate production equipment/machinery. Receive and follow instructions from Production Lead/Production Supervisor.
  • Operate machines according to the operating procedures.
  • Operate a forklift and palletizer. Lift the raw materials and place on top of blender grate with manual assistance from other team members.
  • Clean the blenders and other machinery with a pressure washer. Keep work area tidy after each day's work.
  • Report any manufacturing incidents to the Lead Supervisor.
  • Perform daily visual inspections of machinery and surrounding areas.
  • Monitor control panels and make adjustments as needed.
  • Other duties as required.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 1-year related production experience preferred.
  • Forklift and pallet jack experience preferred.
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced, physically demanding environment, Able to lift and/or move large product bags.
  • Team player and able to work independently.
  • Must maintain good attendance - be at work on time as needed, available for OT as needed.
  • Must have attention to detail, technical comprehension/abilities, Computer literate.
  • Ability to read and comprehend written instructions in the English language.
  • Math - Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals.

Additional Information
Perks & Benefits
  • 401k with Generous Company Match
  • Bonuses
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Paid time off, Paid holidays
  • Floating holidays + Paid Volunteer Time
  • Wellness/Fitness Reimbursements
  • Education Assistance
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program & More!

Sika fosters a culture of entrepreneurship, empowering each individual to make decisions, learn from experiences, and shape their own career path. The safety and well-being of employees are top priorities at Sika, with a strong commitment to open communication and maintaining a safe workplace. In addition, Sika actively contributes to the community and promotes sustainability by giving back, minimizing environmental impact, and embracing social responsibility.
We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training. We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Sika Corporation is committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals that apply. As an equal opportunity employer Sika will consider all qualified applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, or other protected characteristics.
We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training. We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Apply