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

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.

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.

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.

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.

As a Lead Machine Operator, you can expect a fast-paced, hands-on role where you operate and monitor automated bagging machines, perform minor adjustments and preventive maintenance, and inspect product for weight, seal, and consistency. You'll support the Foreman with team coordination and training as needed, and you'll be relied on to keep accurate production logs and report daily output.

This job is physical and active - you'll often lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in dusty, noisy, and temperature-variable conditions. Peak seasons may require occasional overtime or weekend shifts. In return, you'll join a team that values reliability, safety, and continuous improvement; every safe, efficient shift you complete helps build our reputation for quality.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

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.

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