Machine Operator, Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Location: Montgomeryville, PA

Compensation: $25.69 per hour

Shift: 1st shift

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the Production Manager, the Machine Operator, Lead is responsible for both performing and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the assigned shift, ensuring optimal productivity, efficiency, compliance with plant safety requirements, and adherence to operational goals. This hands-on leadership role requires operating production equipment and forklifts while providing leadership, direction, and support to team members by coordinating workflow, monitoring performance, and promoting a safe, collaborative, and positive work environment. The Machine Operator, Lead leads by example in driving operational excellence, fostering employee engagement, and ensuring team objectives are achieved safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead by example in maintaining and enforcing all safety policies, procedures, and workplace standards to promote a safe working environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to all quality requirements, procedures, and specifications to maintain product integrity and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor equipment performance, identify mechanical or operational issues, and assess maintenance needs promptly to minimize downtime.
• Coordinate and execute efficient, organized machine changeovers to support production schedules and operational goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure customer expectations, production targets, and delivery deadlines are consistently met.
• Conduct inspections and measurements of products and materials to verify compliance with quality and engineering specifications.
• Provide direction and support to team members in troubleshooting and correcting product or process issues that do not meet established standards.
• Recommend and implement continuous improvement initiatives focused on production methods, equipment performance, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve workflow, and optimize the use of equipment and resources within the department.
• Analyze production challenges and proactively resolve issues while coaching team members in effective problem-solving techniques.
• Safely move materials and finished goods using forklifts and/or pallet jacks, as required and in accordance with company procedures.
• Demonstrate flexibility by working extended hours or adjusted schedules to meet business and production demands.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned to support business objectives.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) required; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

• Experience with FFS (Form Fill Seal) machines (e.x., Matrix, Tiromat) preferred.

• Ability to frequently push, pull, lift, and/or carry up to 40 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work effectively in a manufacturing environment with elevated noise levels.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with team members and other departments.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving abilities, including the ability to handle conflicts professionally and effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate, coach, and support team members to achieve operational goals and maintain a positive work environment.

Preferred

• Forklift certification is preferred but not required .
• Previous experience in manufacturing, packaging, or production leadership role. 
• Experience with continuous improvement initiatives, process optimization, and production troubleshooting.
• 5S and Lean packaging experience

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

This position requires regular standing and walking throughout the workday and involves repetitious duties in a manufacturing environment. Employees frequently use their hands and arms to perform job duties and may occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, speak, and hear. The role requires the ability to lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds as needed.

Work is performed in a manufacturing environment that is not temperature-controlled. Employees may be exposed to varying indoor temperatures and seasonal conditions typical of an industrial production setting. The work environment may also involve exposure to moving mechanical equipment, chemicals, fumes, airborne particles, and elevated noise levels. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory and hearing protection, may be required based on job assignments and work area conditions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

ThermoSafe is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

ThermoSafe is an Equal Opportunity Employer