Lead Operator

Ingredion Incorporated • South Sioux City, NE

1d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Lead Operator you will be trained to operate our state-of-the-art plant-based protein facility, and then provide leadership and direction to an assigned operations shift. This position requires highly adaptable people who take pride in doing an excellent job. Candidates are required to be computer literate, able to develop & apply mechanical/problem solving skills, read and write in English, and work in a team environment with little supervision.

Requirements

• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to build consensus and foster positive relationships.
• Ability to communicate across functional lines and at all levels.
• Ability to learn and apply Ingredion’s Safety, Environmental, GMP, and Quality standards.
• A high school diploma (post‑secondary preferred), strong work ethic, good decision‑making skills, and basic math/computer skills.
• Ability to work 12‑hour shifts, adapt to changing priorities, and train across multiple job classifications.
• Physical ability to work at heights or confined spaces, climb stairs, stand for long periods, and lift up to 50 lbs in hot/wet environments with PPE.
• Reliable attendance, strong verbal communication skills, and the ability to move throughout the facility while using hands, tools, and equipment safely.

Nice To Haves

• Mechanical aptitude, manufacturing/material handling experience (preferred), and comfort operating tools and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide empathetic, safety‑focused leadership while ensuring compliance with all safety, quality, regulatory, and production standards.
• Fully understand production processes, operate all jobs, perform lab sampling/testing, and lead activities such as CIP, shift preparation, and equipment operations when needed.
• Support plant operations by troubleshooting issues, making sound decisions, maintaining documentation, and using data analysis to resolve manufacturing problems.
• Facilitate teamwork across individuals, shifts, and departments while helping develop and maintain SOPs for consistency and quality.
• Safely operate motor vehicles and material‑handling equipment, maintain clean work areas, and perform plant-wide duties with minimal supervision.

Benefits

• Total Rewards Package – Competitive salary and performance-based pay recognizing your contributions to our success
• Comprehensive Benefits & Wellness Support – Health, long-term savings, and resources for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being
• Flexible Work Arrangements – We value flexibility to support you both professionally and personally
• Career Growth – Learning, training, and development opportunities.
• Employee Recognition Program – A culture of real-time appreciation, with personalized recognition rewards globally
• Employee Referral Program – Refer top talent and earn a bonus if they’re hired
• medical, dental and vision coverage as well as a 401(k) plan with a competitive company match

What This Job Offers

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