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Lead Operator 1st Shift

THUNDERBIRD LLC
Elkhart, IN Full Time
POSTED ON 9/16/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/15/2025
Lead Operator Position Overview

We are searching for a skilled and experienced Molding Lead Operator to oversee and lead our molding operations. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of molding processes, material, and equipment, along with strong leadership skills to guide, support, and supervise all hourly production employees assigned to the shift. The lead may fill other responsibilities including material handling when necessary.

Lead Operator Essential Functions

  • Schedules production.
  • Supervises and directs production employees so production needs are met.
  • Prepares and sets up tools and machines and adjusts machines as needed to ensure product quality.
  • Maintains equipment as required.
  • Trains production personnel in areas of production processes and safety.
  • Operates forklift.
  • Evaluates employee performance and documents hours worked and approves timecards.
  • Ensures all operations are according to established safety rules and procedures.
  • Works with engineering and quality control to continuously improve products and processes.
  • Performs other duties that may be assigned.


Lead Operator Work Experience

  • Proven experience in molding operations with at least 3-5 in a leadership role.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedures.
  • Ability to follow written procedures and work instructions.
  • Ability to use computer software to record information about production material (Basic computer literacy).
  • Attention to detail and time management skills are essential.
  • Able to operate forklift.


Lead Operator Physical Demands and Work Environment

  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
  • The employee is exposed to moving mechanical parts.
  • Frequently required lifting and/or moving up to 30 pounds.
  • Frequently required standing, bending, squatting, and reaching with hands and arms.
  • Regularly required to stand for extended periods, walk, talk, and hear.
  • Ability to use hand tools.
  • Ability to read applicable instructions.


Company Overview

At Thunderbird, the collaborative relationship with our parent and partner companies allows us to better serve our customers – now and in the future. The Thunderbird family of American Manufacturing companies is driven by a mission to provide superior products and services, from prototype to delivery. Our dedicated leadership team's enduring vision is to hold and grow our companies to meet the higher needs of our global customers. We are guided by the unified pursuit of excellence, teamwork, and innovation. Thunderbird enables people to grow, companies to soar, and customers to succeed.

Benefits

  • 401(k) with matching program.
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • 9 Paid Holidays


Thunderbird is a drug and smoke free work environment and promotes safe work conditions.

#tbmanufacturing

Salary : $17 - $19

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