Lead Operator

Overview

TITLE:
Lead Operator – D Team (Nights)

LOCATION: South Sioux City, NE

REPORTS TO: Operations Manager

As a Lead Operator you will be trained to operate our state-of-the-art plant-based protein facility, and then provide leadership and direction to an assigned operations shift. This position requires highly adaptable people who take pride in doing an excellent job. Candidates are required to be computer literate, able to develop & apply mechanical/problem solving skills, read and write in English, and work in a team environment with little supervision.

• Provide empathetic, safety‑focused leadership while ensuring compliance with all safety, quality, regulatory, and production standards.
• Fully understand production processes, operate all jobs, perform lab sampling/testing, and lead activities such as CIP, shift preparation, and equipment operations when needed.
• Support plant operations by troubleshooting issues, making sound decisions, maintaining documentation, and using data analysis to resolve manufacturing problems.
• Facilitate teamwork across individuals, shifts, and departments while helping develop and maintain SOPs for consistency and quality.
• Safely operate motor vehicles and material‑handling equipment, maintain clean work areas, and perform plant‑wide duties with minimal supervision.

• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to build consensus and foster positive relationships.
• Ability to communicate across functional lines and at all levels.
• Ability to learn and apply Ingredion’s Safety, Environmental, GMP, and Quality standards.

• A high school diploma (post‑secondary preferred), strong work ethic, good decision‑making skills, and basic math/computer skills.
• Ability to work 12‑hour shifts, adapt to changing priorities, and train across multiple job classifications.
• Mechanical aptitude, manufacturing/material handling experience (preferred), and comfort operating tools and equipment.
• Physical ability to work at heights or confined spaces, climb stairs, stand for long periods, and lift up to 50 lbs in hot/wet environments with PPE.
• Reliable attendance, strong verbal communication skills, and the ability to move throughout the facility while using hands, tools, and equipment safely.

Relocation Available? No

Discover why Ingredion is the ideal place to advance your career with our exceptional rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive. Create the future with us and enjoy:

• Total Rewards Package – Competitive salary and performance-based pay recognizing your contributions to our success
• Comprehensive Benefits & Wellness Support – Health, long-term savings, and resources for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being
• Flexible Work Arrangements – We value flexibility to support you both professionally and personally
• Career Growth – Learning, training, and development opportunities.
• Employee Recognition Program – A culture of real-time appreciation, with personalized recognition rewards globally
• Employee Referral Program – Refer top talent and earn a bonus if they’re hired
• Ingredion offers support to applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If an applicant requires accommodation during the application or selection process, we will work with the applicant to meet their needs.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. Ingredion seeks to provide a work environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. We will not tolerate any form of discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, handicap or disability—mental or physical—marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability resulting from military service, or any other classification protected by law.

We are committed to establishing and maintaining a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Ingredion provides accommodations to job applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If a job applicant requires an accommodation during the application process or through the selection…