Lead Operator

NantBioRenewables; Gadsden (AL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

NantBioRenewables is seeking a Lead Operator to oversee daily production activities in a manufacturing setting, ensuring safety, quality, and productivity standards are met. You will serve as the primary contact between operators and management, lead shift activities, train new hires, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities include enforcing safety rules, conducting checks, documenting inspections, and coordinating with supervisors to meet schedules.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or GED with relevant experience in manufacturing.
• Preferred technical or vocational training related to manufacturing or operations.
• Experience leading or coordinating a team or shift is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate daily work activities of operators on assigned shift or line.
• Operate machinery and systems with focus on safety and efficiency to meet production goals.
• Monitor workflow and make real-time adjustments to minimize downtime.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, or cost and support process improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Safety procedures

Quality standards

Communication

Troubleshooting

Multitasking

Excel

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical or vocational training

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

NantBioRenewables is dedicated to creating a healthier, more sustainable world by reducing microplastics and their harmful impact on human health. The organization focuses on innovative manufacturing solutions that prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility. By building an inclusive manufacturing ecosystem, NantBioRenewables works to empower local communities and support long-term economic resilience. The company’s mission is centered on protecting future generations through cleaner materials and more sustainable production practices.

Job Purpose:

The Lead Operator oversees daily operational activities within a production or manufacturing area while actively performing operational tasks. This role serves as the primary point of contact between operators and management, ensuring safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement standards are met.

• Enforce safety rules, policies, and PPE requirements
• Conduct safety checks and report hazards or incidents
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, inspections, and documentation
• Address quality concerns promptly and escalate as needed
• Assign tasks, provide direction and coach on proper procedures
• Train new hires and cross-train team members
• Serve as a first-level resource for troubleshooting operational issues
• Communicate shift performance, issues, and hand-offs to supervisors
• Lead and coordinate daily work activities of operators on assigned shift or line
• Operate machinery, equipment, or systems while setting the example for safe and efficient operation
• Ensure production schedules, output goals, and quality standards are met
• Monitor workflow and make real-time adjustments to minimize downtime
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, safety, quality, or cost
• Assist with implementation of process improvements and standard work
• Support audits, 5S initiatives, and lean manufacturing activities
• Complete production reports, logs, and basic documentation
• Track attendance and notify supervision of issues
• Support inventory control and material flow as required
• Will lead department meetings and huddles to ensure team members are aware of expectations, informed of all safety/quality concerns or updates, HR news, issues with equipment, cleaning schedules, and other important communications effecting production.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• 5 years of experience as an operator in a manufacturing or production environment
• Demonstrated leadership or informal lead experience
• Strong knowledge of safety procedures and quality standards

Preferred but not required:

• Technical or vocational training
• Experience with plastics manufacturing.
• Prior experience leading a team or shift

Essential Skills and Hard Skills (including training, licenses, credentials & languages):

• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Computer and documentation skills. Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, lift, and perform repetitive motions during shift
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Manufacturing/production floor environment
• May involve exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures
• Shift work, overtime, or weekend work may be required

SQF commitment to Food Safety:

We are committed to producing safe, high-quality food products that meet or exceed all regulatory and customer requirements. As part of our SQF-certified facility, every team member plays a critical role in upholding our food safety and quality standards. This includes following all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), adhering to our SQF policies and procedures, and actively participating in continuous improvement initiatives to ensure the integrity of our products and the safety of our consumers.