Lead Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

KIK Consumer Products•Salem, VA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Lead Machine Operator on 2nd Shift (4:00pm – 2:30am, Monday–Thursday with weekends per business need), where you will oversee the filling and packaging operations for your shift. You will lead a team of operators running high‑speed equipment such as fillers, labelers, drop packers, case erectors, palletizers, bottle unscramblers, and case sealers while directing line manning and scheduling to meet production goals. In this working‑lead role, you will monitor line performance, address mechanical and process upsets, and coordinate closely with Maintenance, Warehouse, and Quality to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency targets are achieved. This position has an hourly rate of $25.00 plus a $1.00 shift differential.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED.
3 or more years of experience in a high‑speed, automated filling/packaging environment
Advanced knowledge of production line equipment (fillers, labelers, drop packers, case erectors, palletizers, bottle unscramblers, case sealers) and strong understanding of production processes, quality control, machine operation, troubleshooting, and downtime tracking.
Proven ability to lead, train, and develop team members while driving productivity and maintaining a quality‑focused, results‑driven mindset.
Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to stay “one step ahead” in a fast‑paced environment and collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.
Strong commitment to safety and the ability to recognize and correct unsafe conditions.

Nice To Haves

1 or more years as a Lead/Line Operator with strong process and equipment knowledge

Responsibilities

Oversee filling and packaging operations for assigned lines by directing manning, coordinating schedules, and ensuring all equipment is running safely and efficiently.
Operate and monitor production equipment (fillers, labelers, drop packers, case erectors, palletizers, bottle unscramblers, case sealers), reacting quickly to jams, quality issues, or other disruptions.
Maintain vigilance for any upsets in the filling operation, identify mechanical or process needs, and work with Maintenance to address equipment issues.
Train, guide, and motivate operators; provide on‑the‑job coaching on machine operation, basic troubleshooting, quality checks, and safety practices.
Maintain accurate time, production, and downtime records; review data with supervisors to drive improvement and meet production plans.
Ensure quality standards are met by verifying codes, fills, packaging integrity, and appearance, and by partnering with Quality to resolve non‑conformances.
Communicate clearly with downline associates, supervisors, managers, Maintenance, and Warehouse to coordinate material flow, changeovers, and issue resolution.
Promote and enforce a “Safety First” culture by following and supporting all safety and GMP programs, immediately addressing or escalating unsafe conditions.