LEAD PRODUCTION OPERATOR

Job Description

SUMMARY:

The Lead Production Operator plays a key role in the daily operations of the manufacturing floor by overseeing the safe, efficient, and consistent operation of production lines. This hands-on position combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, ensuring that production goals are met without compromising quality, safety, or compliance. The Lead Production Operator also serves as a liaison between production staff and management, helping to drive performance, troubleshoot issues, and support continuous improvement efforts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervise and coordinate daily production activities across assigned shifts or work areas to ensure production targets, quality standards, and safety requirements are consistently achieved.

Provide clear direction and leadership to production operators, fostering a team-oriented environment that promotes accountability, efficiency, and mutual support.

Verify that all required raw materials, packaging components, and tools are available and properly staged before the start of each production run.

Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot production equipment as needed; escalate complex mechanical issues to maintenance in a timely manner to minimize downtime.

Perform routine inspections of work-in-progress and finished products to verify conformance to quality specifications; document and address any non-conformities.

Remove, inspect, label, and book all completed skids; determine the appropriate next steps—whether to approve for inventory or mark for rework/scrap—based on quality standards.

Accurately complete and maintain production logs, batch records, and other documentation in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.

Lead by example in upholding all workplace safety standards, ensuring team adherence to PPE usage, proper equipment handling, and emergency procedures.

Conduct onboarding and ongoing training for new and existing employees on production procedures, machine operation, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Collaborate closely with quality assurance, maintenance, warehouse, and production planning teams to resolve process bottlenecks, coordinate product changeovers, and optimize production flow.

Participate in regular shift meetings and provide performance feedback, operational updates, and improvement suggestions to supervisors and other stakeholders.

Support the implementation of Lean manufacturing principles, 5S practices, and other continuous improvement initiatives.

Assist with conducting root cause analysis for quality issues, equipment malfunctions, or process deviations, and help implement corrective/preventive actions.

Flexibly respond to shifting priorities, special projects, and urgent production needs as directed by supervisors or plant leadership.

Responsibilities may vary slightly based on product line, equipment type, and facility layout.

COMPETENCIES:

Leadership and Team Development: Ability to motivate, coach, and develop team members to achieve production goals and maintain high morale.

Quality and Detail Orientation: Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of product quality and consistency.

Technical Proficiency: Proficient in operating, troubleshooting, and performing basic maintenance on production equipment and systems.

Operational Efficiency: Skilled in organizing resources, prioritizing tasks, and driving workflow to maximize throughput and minimize downtime.

Communication and Problem-Solving: Effective verbal and written communication skills; capable of identifying and resolving issues quickly and collaboratively.

Adaptability: Comfortable working in a fast-paced, changing environment and responding flexibly to evolving production needs and challenges.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

High school diploma or GED required; technical training or coursework in manufacturing, industrial technology, or a related field is a plus.

Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a production or manufacturing environment.

Previous experience in a leadership or supervisory role is strongly preferred.

Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, or Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.

Experience with ERP or production tracking systems is desirable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to stand, walk, bend, and stoop for extended periods.

Regular use of hands and arms to handle materials, tools, or machinery.

Must be able to lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds as needed.

Occasional climbing, squatting, and kneeling required for equipment access or maintenance tasks.

Must be able to work in a physically demanding, fast-paced environment that may include loud noise, temperature variations, and exposure to manufacturing materials.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Full-time