Lead Operator
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 9, 2026. First seen by Alion on Nov 9, 2026. Watlow scores A on the Alion truth index.
About the Role
Lead Operators guide flow and process within their assigned work center at Watlow’s manufacturing operation, coaching the work center team on continuous improvement and helping the team embrace change. This role partners closely with the Team Leader, Manufacturing Engineering, Continuous Improvement, and Supply Chain to keep production running safely, on schedule, and to specification.
In this position, you will build product to design using work instructions and standards, coordinate daily production planning to meet takt and delivery requirements, and lead Gemba walks, standard work, and problem-solving activities — using the Watlow Business System and the WW Leader Behaviors to develop your team and drive results.
What You’ll Do
Build product to design using work instructions and standards, and create or audit standard work in your assigned area in alignment with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Continuous Improvement
Initiate and update the daily production plan — including daily resource planning — to meet takt and Manufacturing Order (MO) delivery requirements with quality product
Coach and mentor cell team members, sharing in the responsibility for their training, development, and on-the-job learning
Lead Gemba walks and follow up on actions related to Cell Improvement, Standard Work, and Problem Solving Centers (PSCs)
Follow the Andon process and the Standard Operating Process (SOP) for the Lead Operator role
Verify daily 6S is followed and ensure the deployment of a safe, healthy work environment for all team members
Communicate with the Team Leader on problems, team issues, and other concerns
Ensure training records for the Work Cell are complete and properly retained
Collaborate with Supply Chain to ensure inventory accuracy
What You Bring — Required Qualifications
High school graduate or GED
Ability to use judgment to know when to refer issues to others, and to recommend and implement solutions within your area of responsibility
Technical troubleshooting ability across process, equipment, and product
Demonstrated ability to contribute to problem-solving activities and apply tools and techniques across multiple work areas
Ability to train others on specific skills and transfer knowledge from one situation to the next
Strong interpersonal, listening, and communication skills, with demonstrated approachability, openness, and credibility
Ability to use the Watlow Business System and model the WW Leader Behaviors to achieve results
What Sets You Apart — Preferred Qualifications
Two-year degree, technical certificate, or 3-5 years of related experience
Leadership training
Previous manufacturing or related industry experience