Lead Operator

Watlow Recruitment Team • Hannibal, MO

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Lead Operators guide workflow and processes within their assigned work center at Watlow’s manufacturing operation. They coach the work center team on continuous improvement and help the team embrace change. The role partners closely with the Team Leader, Manufacturing Engineering, Continuous Improvement, and Supply Chain to keep production running safely, on schedule, and to specification.

The Lead Operator builds products to design using work instructions and standards, coordinates daily production planning to meet takt and delivery requirements, and leads Gemba walks, standard work, and problem-solving activities. The role uses the Watlow Business System and WW Leader Behaviors to develop the team and drive results.

Requirements

• High school graduate or GED.
• Ability to use judgment to determine when to refer issues to others and to recommend and implement solutions within the area of responsibility.
• Technical troubleshooting ability across process, equipment, and product.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to problem-solving activities and apply tools and techniques across multiple work areas.
• Ability to train others on specific skills and transfer knowledge from one situation to the next.
• Strong interpersonal, listening, and communication skills, with demonstrated approachability, openness, and credibility.
• Ability to use the Watlow Business System and model the WW Leader Behaviors to achieve results.

Nice To Haves

• Two-year degree, technical certificate, or 3–5 years of related experience.
• Leadership training.
• Previous manufacturing or related industry experience.

Responsibilities

• Build products to design using work instructions and standards, and create or audit standard work in the assigned area in alignment with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Continuous Improvement.
• Initiate and update the daily production plan, including daily resource planning, to meet takt and Manufacturing Order delivery requirements while producing quality products.
• Coach and mentor cell team members and share responsibility for their training, development, and on-the-job learning.
• Lead Gemba walks and follow up on actions related to Cell Improvement, Standard Work, and Problem Solving Centers (PSCs).
• Follow the Andon process and the Standard Operating Process (SOP) for the Lead Operator role.
• Verify that daily 6S is followed and ensure deployment of a safe, healthy work environment for all team members.
• Communicate problems, team issues, and other concerns to the Team Leader.
• Ensure Work Cell training records are complete and properly retained.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain to ensure inventory accuracy.

Benefits

• Annual Incentive Program.
• 401(k) plan with a company match on contributions and an annual company contribution tied to company performance.
• Wellness incentives.
• Employee Personal Assistance Program.
• Dental, medical, and vision insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation.
• Parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED