Demo

Lead Production Operator

Darling Ingredients
Fayetteville, NC Full Time
POSTED ON 10/27/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/25/2026
Job Description

The Lead Production Operator is responsible for overseeing the timely and efficient flow of raw materials into high-quality finished products; this may also include ensuring that equipment is maintained and in good repair.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

  • Maintain efficient and timely flow of all raw materials received and finished products shipped.
  • Oversee the equipment used to process raw & finished materials is kept in good working order.
  • Effectively manage all instances of breakdowns and coordinate with Maintenance to ensure needed repairs are made in timely manner.
  • Lead continuous improvement efforts in all areas of responsibility.
  • Responsible for achieving individual and department targets, goals and objectives.
  • Responsible for observing all Company safety rules and regulations, recognize safety as a top Company priority, and conducting/participating in regularly scheduled safety meetings with plant staff.
  • Assist in investigating accidents that occur within the jurisdiction and make recommendations to the Plant Safety Committee.
  • All other duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Require 1-2 years of prior experience in a supervisory/management capacity.
  • Minimum of 2-3 years of prior work experience in an industrial/manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Technical school certificate or Associates Degree preferred.
  • Labor relations background and experience with leadership & training.
  • Good understanding of production maintenance and repair protocols

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Occasionally = Up to 20% Frequently = 21% to 50% Constantly = at least 51%

  • Exposed to unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments such as high noise level, strong odors, and/or exposure to heat and cold: Frequently
  • Exposed to bio hazardous conditions: Occasionally
  • Exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals which mandate attention to safety considerations: Occasionally
  • Exposed to Electrical hazards; risk of electrical shock: Occasionally
  • Handles or works with potentially dangerous equipment: Frequently
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position: Frequently
  • Must be able to move about inside/outside office or work location: Frequently
  • Operates a computer and other office machinery: Frequently
  • Must be able to position one's self to maintain computers in the lab, including under desks and in the server closet: Frequently
  • Must be able to ascend/descend on a ladder: Frequently
  • Must be able to use senses to; effectively communicate with co-workers and clients and detect hazardous conditions: Frequently
  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs

About Us

We’re one of the world’s leading practitioners of circularity, transforming materials from the animal agriculture and food industries into valuable ingredients. Ingredients that nourish people, feed animals and crops, and fuel the world with renewable energy.

About The Team

Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster of this job.

Salary.com Estimation for Lead Production Operator in Fayetteville, NC
$66,162 to $82,426
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