ZipRecruiter is hiring: Production Operator in West Palm Beach

Position: Second Shift Machine Operator (Lead Potential)
Shift: 2nd Shift - 4:00 PM - 2:30 AM (6:00 AM - 4:30 PM to train)
Pay: $23/hour
Location: West Palm Beach

Overview

We are currently seeking a skilled Machine Operator to join our 2nd shift team. This critical role involves not only operating key production equipment but also serving as a potential lead, providing direction, mentorship, and operational support to team members. Ideal candidates will have prior machine operation experience in a manufacturing environment and either prior leadership experience or strong potential to step into a lead role.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Machine Operation (15%)

• Operate 5 to 8 key pieces of production equipment to fulfill daily manufacturing orders.
• Review production schedules and material lists; use RF gun to locate and pick required raw materials.
• Weigh and batch materials according to specific order needs and input data into machines.
• Collaborate with batcher to run machines as scheduled and ensure all safety protocols are followed.
• Serve as backup to production staff in preparing materials as needed.

Housekeeping & Worksite Maintenance (5%)

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of production area, including sweeping, vacuuming, and equipment cleaning.
• Ensure all packing materials and debris are disposed of properly.

Shift Transition & Reporting (5%)

• Prepare materials and work area for the next shift to ensure smooth transition.
• Provide a shift summary report detailing productivity, downtime, and any quality or safety concerns.

Quality Control (10%)

• Ensure all materials used are within expiration and in accordance with correct formulas.
• Collect and submit product samples for QC review; make necessary batch adjustments based on results.
• Verify finished product meets all quality specifications.

Equipment & Materials Management (5%)

• Report equipment failures, material shortages, and maintenance needs promptly.
• Escalate any production delays or equipment malfunctions to the Production Manager.

Leadership, Mentorship & Training (35%)

• Act as team lead during shifts without a supervisor; provide direction and support on the floor.
• Train new team members on equipment operation and plant procedures.
• Collaborate with the Production Manager to balance workloads and maintain productivity.
• Address minor performance issues promptly; partner with HR as needed for documentation and corrective action.
• Ensure team compliance with safety and training requirements.

Business Systems & Inventory (25%)

• Input and close out work orders in the system.
• Conduct physical inventory counts and update system records accordingly.
• Adjust work orders based on real-time inventory availability.

Qualifications

• Experience: 5+ years in a manufacturing or plant environment.
• Leadership: Previous experience in a lead or mentorship role is highly preferred.
• Technical: Proficient with production equipment and comfortable using business systems.
• Communication: Able to clearly communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Mathematical: Comfortable with basic math to perform material weights and measurements.
• Detail-Oriented: Strong attention to order details and production accuracy.

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Physical Requirements

• Must pass a pre-employment physical.
• Ability to lift and/or carry up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to push/pull up to 55 pounds.
• Ability to stand for 80–85% of the shift.
• Some sitting (5%), twisting/bending (20%), and squatting/climbing/crawling (10%) required.