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Machine Operator Lead

Zebra Technologies · Greenville, WI · Full time

Posted Sep 24, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about an operator you mentored. How did you help them improve?

What they are checking: Whether they can teach patiently and pass on skills, since mentoring is part of the lead role.

Tell me about a continuous-improvement project you led on a press line. What changed?

What they are checking: Whether they have driven measurable improvements like reduced waste or faster changeovers.

How do you work with the production supervisor when you disagree on how a job should be run?

What they are checking: Whether they can share technical expertise respectfully while supporting the supervisor's decisions.

What would you do

The automated turret system keeps faulting mid-run. How do you troubleshoot it?

What they are checking: Whether they can diagnose equipment problems methodically and know when to call maintenance.

Color starts drifting halfway through a long run. What do you check first?

What they are checking: Whether they understand the variables like viscosity, temperature and pressure that cause color drift.

The shift is Monday through Friday, 1:45 to 10 p.m. How do you make sure hand-offs with first shift go well?

What they are checking: Whether they communicate machine status and job details clearly across shifts.

About the work

Tell me about your experience running high-precision color presses. What types of presses and materials have you worked on?

What they are checking: Whether they truly are a master press operator who can serve as the floor expert.

Walk me through a complex machine setup from start to first good label.

What they are checking: Whether they own setups end to end, including registration, plates, anilox and ink.

How do you formulate or adjust a custom ink color to match a customer standard?

What they are checking: Whether they can handle custom ink formulation, which the posting names specifically.

How do you reduce changeover time between jobs?

What they are checking: Whether they know practical setup-reduction techniques like preparing the next job ahead of time.

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The full job description

As published by Zebra Technologies.

Overview: At Zebra, we are a community of innovators who come together to create new ways of working. United by curiosity and a culture of caring, we develop smart solutions that anticipate our customer’s and partner’s needs and solve their challenges. Being part of Zebra Nation means you are seen, heard, valued, and respected. Drawing from our unique perspectives, we collaborate to deliver on our purpose. Here you are part of a team pushing boundaries today to redefine the work of tomorrow for organizations, their employees, and those they serve. You’ll have opportunities to learn and lead in a forward-thinking environment, defining your path to a fulfilling career while channeling your skills toward causes you care about—locally and globally. Come make an impact every day at Zebra. What We're Looking For: Are you a master press operator looking to take your technical skills to the next level? We are seeking a Lead Machine Operator to serve as our floor subject matter expert across high-precision color press and automated turret systems. In this critical technical leadership role, you will take end-to-end ownership of complex machine setups, custom ink formulations, and equipment troubleshooting. Working alongside production supervisors, you will mentor fellow operators and lead strategic continuous-improvement initiatives. Shift: Monday-Friday 1:45pm-10:00pm $25.00 per hour plus $1 shift differential *$1500 Retention Bonus after 6 months of employment with Zebra Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the assigned work area ; training employees, resolving novel problems, and providing guidance • Act as a role model by consistently demonstrating company values • Operate and understand the full functions of all machines, including ink mixing and color matching • Perform ISO-compliant quality tests on machines, including color presses and ancillary equipment • Interpret job documents accurately and assist other operators in understanding and applying them • Train new and existing press operators on converting operations and advanced press functions • Perform non-routine and complex tasks with minimal supervision, exercising sound judgment • Set up machines efficiently and within expected timeframes • Resolve moderately complex issues by collaborating with internal stakeholders • Follow all safety regulations, including proper use of PPE, and adhere to productivity standards • Build positive working relationships within the team and immediate department • Support supervisors in prioritizing workloads, assigning tasks, and aligning resources with business goals Key Skills and Competencies: • Strong teamwork and collaboration skills • Skilled in operating press, converting, and finishing equipment such as die cutting, laminating, and slitting • Hands-on experience with narrow web flex presses • Clear and effective communication with team members, supervisors, and stakeholders • Strong ability to guide and support team members in developing their technical skills Minimum Education or Equivalent: • High school diploma or GED • Equivalency: Equivalent work experience will be considered in lieu of a degree Minimum Work Experience: • 4+ years of relevant work experience Equal Opportunity Employer: Zebra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability and protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance in applying for a position, please contact us at workplace.accommodations@zebra.com. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf Conozca sus Derechos: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRightsSp_10_20.pdf We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation at workplace.accommodations@zebra.com . Incentive Compensation: In addition to base pay, Zebra offers this role the opportunity to earn a performance-based annual cash incentive, at a target equal to 3% of base pay, in accordance with the terms of the applicable incentive plan. Zebra Total Rewards: Zebra Total Rewards includes more than just pay and is structured to meet the needs of our changing global business and evolving talent. We are committed to providing our employees with a benefits program that is comprehensive and competitive – including healthcare, wellness, inclusion networks, and continued learning and development offerings. We offer community service days, in addition to the traditional insurances, compensation, parental leave, employee assistance program and paid time off offerings depending on the country where you work. Salary offered will vary depending on your location, job-related skills, knowledge, and experience. Additionally, all Zebra roles are eligible for cash incentive programs. For example, sales roles have additional opportunity to earn substantial variable compensation tied to quota achievement. In most other roles, the Zebra annual cash incentive program links Company and individual performance together. Some roles may also be eligible for long-term incentive equity awards. Benefits: We understand the importance of work-life balance and wellbeing, which is why we offer flexibility for our teams including: hybrid work, adaptable hours, Summer Flex Fridays, Focus Fridays, and an annual companywide well-being day to promote revitalization and success. Job Posting Statement: To protect candidates from falling victim to online fraudulent activity involving fake job postings and employment offers, please be aware our recruiters will always connect with you via @zebra.com email accounts. Applications are only accepted through our applicant tracking system and only accept personal identifying information through that system. Our Talent Acquisition team will not ask for you to provide personal identifying information via e-mail or outside of the system. If you are a victim of identity theft contact your local police department. AI Technology Statement: Zebra Technologies leverages AI technology to evaluate job applications using objective, job-relevant criteria. This approach enhances efficiency and promotes fairness in the hiring process. However, every decision regarding interviews and hiring is made by our dedicated team, because we believe people make the best decisions about people. For more on how we use technology in hiring and how we process applicant data, see our Zebra Privacy Policy .

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