Lead Operator

Barry-Wehmiller Companies Inc.; Lenexa (KS); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Barry-Wehmiller Companies Inc. through BW Converting is seeking a Lead Operator to support daily production on the floor. This hands-on role leads a production team, operates rewinder equipment, and helps ensure safety, quality, and timely output.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in manufacturing, strong leadership, and experience with ERP systems. This on-site position emphasizes teamwork, continuous improvement, and reliable performance in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of manufacturing or production experience.
• Previous leadership experience preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and machine set-up experience.
• Experience with ERP type systems.
• Forklift skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate Rewinder machines and assist with set-ups and troubleshooting.
• Lead production team members and cover vacations.
• Monitor schedules, ensure quality standards and safety.
• Support lean initiatives and process improvements.
• Maintain production records and coordinate with maintenance, quality, logistics.

Skills

Leadership

Machine setup

ERP systems

Forklift

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or technical training

Tools

ERP Systems

MS Excel

Job description

About Us

About Us: BW Converting is a strategic alliance of resources and services that bring together several Barry-Wehmiller companies — Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC), Winkler + Dünnebier (W+D), STAX Technologies, Hudson-Sharp, Baldwin Technologies and Northern Engraving and Machine. These industry leaders offer trusted brands and innovative technologies in the design, manufacture, and service of high-performance converting and packaging machinery for the tissue, nonwovens, hygiene, bag-converting, mailing, and printing industries. Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.

Job Description

The Lead Operator is a hands-on hourly working lead role responsible for supporting daily production operations while actively working on the production floor. This position operates equipment, assists with machine set-ups and troubleshooting, leads production associates, and ensures safety, quality, and productivity goals are achieved. The ideal candidate leads by example, promotes teamwork and accountability, and supports continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Essential Functions

Hands-On Production Support

• Operate production equipment (Rewinder machines) and assist with machine set-ups, adjustments, and troubleshooting as needed.
• Will have to deal with some solvents.
• Support daily production activities and help minimize downtime.
• Assist with production planning and coordination with maintenance as needed.

Working Lead Support

• Work on the process floor daily, train, and support production team members to meet daily production goals.
• Cover team members during planned vacations and unplanned abscesses.
• Foster a positive work environment focused on teamwork, accountability, and safety.
• Monitor employee performance and provide guidance and support.

Production & Quality

• Monitor production schedules and workflow to meet deadlines and efficiency targets.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, operational procedures, and company policies.
• Address production issues and implement corrective actions when necessary.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Enforce safety procedures and promptly address safety concerns.
• Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify process inefficiencies and recommend improvements.

Communication & Reporting

• Strong use of ERP systems.
• ie... XA66/Excell/Label Printing/Obtaining File Documents
• Maintain accurate production records and communicate key production information.
• Work closely with maintenance, quality, and logistics teams to support operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical training preferred.
• 3+ years of manufacturing or production experience required.
• Previous leadership experience strongly preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience with machine set-ups preferred.
• Basic computer, math, and forklift skills preferred.
• Experinece utilizing ERP type systems
• Strong leadership, communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and manage multiple priorities.

Additional Job Description

Performs production tasks such as set-up, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting Leads and directs the workflow not the employees.

No direct reports.

Other duties as assigned #LI-SG1

Company Culture

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.

Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.

Company: BW Converting Throughout Barry-Wehmiller, we hold ourselves to a unique measure of success: by the way we touch the lives of people. It’s that vision that drives us in creating world-class experiences and solutions for our customers and unites us around our common goal—to use the power of our business to build a better world.