Team Lead Entry Level Machine Operator

Finishing Team Lead (Hands-On Production & Leadership Role) Are you a hands-on production professional looking to take the next step into leadership? We're seeking a Finishing Team Lead who enjoys working on the floor, leading by example, and growing into a full leadership role. This position blends production, problem-solving, and team support in a clean, well-organized manufacturing environment. You'll be involved in finishing, packaging, laminating, and kitting while gradually training into full lead responsibilities—making this a great opportunity for someone eager to grow and build a long-term career. What You'll Do Production & Finishing Work Perform hands-on finishing, packaging, laminating, and kitting tasks across the department Complete stripping and weeding to prepare materials for final production Assemble, kit, and package materials according to job specifications and schedules Support miscellaneous packaging and assembly projects as needed Leadership & Team Support Lead and support a small team of associates on assigned jobs Train and coach team members on processes, quality standards, and safety practices Ensure associates clearly understand job instructions and production expectations Provide day-to-day guidance while developing into full department leadership Quality, Safety & Documentation Verify that all work meets customer specifications and quality requirements Maintain accurate production records, work orders, and job documentation Assist with quality records such as attribute charting and control data Monitor safety, housekeeping, and organization standards in finishing areas Report incidents promptly and assist with corrective actions when needed Equipment & Technology Operate or learn to operate a wide range of finishing and material-handling equipment, including: Laminators, shrink wrappers, polybaggers, load wrappers Hand dollies and sit-down forklifts Staplers, tape guns, glue guns, screw guns, sewing machines Electronic scales, label makers, and computers Use basic computer programs to review job details and track production Collaboration & Workflow Work closely with coordinators and managers to prioritize jobs and meet deadlines Support other lead personnel as needed to maintain efficient workflow Communicate clearly and professionally with team members and other departments What We're Looking For Required Skills & Experience Experience in a production, manufacturing, or hands-on environment (assembly, kitting, picking/packing, laminating, stocking, etc.) Strong desire to grow into a lead or supervisor role Basic computer skills (Microsoft programs) Ability to lift up to 40 lbs regularly Mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools and light machinery Basic math and measuring skills Ability to multitask, stay organized, and work with urgency Strong communication and teamwork skills Preferred Qualifications Bilingual in Spanish Prior lead or supervisory experience Forklift experience (sit-down preferred) Experience in light manufacturing or secondary operations Experience in retail, food service, warehouse, or general production demonstrating reliability and work ethic Why Work With Us? Family‑owned, people‑focused company with long-term stability Strong training culture—patience, support, and growth encouraged Clear path to leadership and advancement Competitive benefits, including: High employer contribution toward medical & dental coverage 401(k) with 4% company match Two weeks of PTO in your first year Seven paid holidays Opportunity to earn additional PTO over time Supportive, respectful, and team‑oriented workplace Work Environment Clean, well-lit, temperature-controlled light industrial facility Organized and structured finishing department Quiet overall environment (loud or odor-prone areas are separate) About 25 associates on first shift; 5 on second shift Professional yet friendly atmosphere that values safety, learning, and teamwork Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Stillwater, MN. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $22.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Stillwater,MN.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

About Aerotek:

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.