Lead Machine Operator

Job Title: Lead Machine Operator

Location: Houston, TX

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports to: Site Manager

Compensation Range: Hourly (based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and travel opportunities

The Ground Up Commitment

TGU (The Ground Up, Inc.) has carved a niche for itself in the sustainable and green waste recycling sector, with a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. TGU provides product to retail and wholesale markets, as well as operates as a significant support system for the Ceres emergency response division and operates out of Houston, Texas.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At The Ground Up, you're more than an employee, you're part of a team with purpose. Every role, from operations to delivery, plays a vital part in ensuring our customers receive the quality and service they depend on. We value initiative, hard work, and teamwork, while fostering a culture of reliability, respect, and growth. If you show up ready to work safely, contribute to the team, and take pride in a job well done, you'll fit right in.

Why Join The Ground Up?

At The Ground Up, you won't just have a job - you'll be part of a mission to deliver excellence to our customers and communities.

We offer:

- A collaborative, team-oriented culture.

- Opportunities for growth and skill development.

- The chance to contribute to products that make a visible difference in landscapes across the region.

What We Are Looking For

We're seeking a skilled Lead Machine Operator to join our bagging operations team in Houston, TX. This hands-on role ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production of soil and mulch products. Reporting to the Foreman, you'll operate and maintain automated bagging machinery, help keep production on schedule, and step into a leadership role when needed to guide and support team members. Success in the first 12 months means mastering machine operation and troubleshooting, meeting production targets, maintaining a strong safety record, and demonstrating readiness to lead short-term tasks or shifts when required.

What You Will Do

Machine Operation & Oversight

- Operate and monitor automated bagging machinery to ensure efficient and accurate packaging of soil, mulch, and related products.

- Set up, adjust, and calibrate machines to meet production specifications and quality standards.

- Troubleshoot and resolve machine malfunctions, performing minor repairs or coordinating with maintenance teams for complex issues.

Production & Quality Control

- Ensure production schedules are met while maintaining high standards for product quality and packaging.

- Inspect bagged products for consistency, weight accuracy, and proper sealing, addressing any deviations.

- Maintain accurate production logs and report daily output to the Production Supervisor.

Safety & Compliance

- Adhere to safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety standards in all activities.

Maintenance & Housekeeping

- Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment to prevent downtime and extend machine lifespan.

- Report major equipment issues to the maintenance department and track repair progress.

- Continuous Improvement

Required Qualifications

- High school diploma or equivalent.

- 3+ years of experience operating automated machinery, preferably in a manufacturing or packaging environment.

- Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and perform minor equipment repairs.

- Knowledge of OSHA and commitment to safety procedures.

- Ability to read and interpret production schedules, blueprints, and technical manuals.

- Strong communication skills to work effectively with supervisors and team members.

- Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in a dusty or outdoor environment.

Preferred Qualifications

- Technical or vocational training in machine operation or mechanics.

- Experience in a role requiring occasional leadership or guidance of coworkers.

- Forklift certification, or willingness to obtain one.

- Experience with automated bagging or packaging systems.

- Familiarity with process improvement initiatives.

Skills & Competencies

- Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to address operational challenges.

- Attention to detail to ensure product quality and machine performance.

- Time management and organizational skills to meet production deadlines.

- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

- Flexibility to step into a leadership role when needed while primarily supporting the team.

- Commitment to safety and teamwork.

What to Expect

You'll work in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment where your ability to multitask, communicate clearly, and stay organized will be key to success. You'll be part of a team that values reliability, flexibility, and a positive attitude. Expect to grow your product knowledge and contribute to a supportive and environmentally conscious workplace.

Physical Requirement and Environment

The role is based in the bagging building and may involve exposure to dust, noise, and fluctuating temperatures. Work may also involve occasional outdoor conditions (heat, cold, wet). PPE such as gloves, safety glasses, and dust masks are provided and required. Occasional overtime or weekend shifts may be necessary during peak seasons.

Must be able to stand, walk, sit, climb, and balance in varying conditions. Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and talk or hear. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Must have specific vision abilities to include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Ability to work in challenging environments including but not limited to adverse weather conditions, elevated spaces, confined spaces, extreme temperatures, exposure to mechanical parts, wet and/or humid conditions, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration, and loud noise levels.

Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.

Why Join The Ground Up?

At TGU, your work supports a sustainable future and strengthens community resilience.

We offer:

* A collaborative, mission-driven culture.

* Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

* A chance to make a lasting environmental impact.

The Ground Up is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.