Gluing Machine Operator

Smurfit-Westrock; Hawkesbury; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock in New South Wales’ Hawkesbury region seeks an experienced Gluing Operator to join our Finishing team. You will operate gluing machinery, ensure cartons meet quality specifications, and help achieve productivity and safety targets.

Working on the production line, you’ll coordinate with your offsider, perform routine maintenance, and participate in training to grow your skills in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Excellent attention to detail and quality.
• Effective problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings including knife and glue line layouts.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare gluing machinery to production standards (make-ready).
• Operate gluing equipment to meet quality, productivity, and efficiency targets.
• Monitor machine performance for continuous operation.
• Conduct quality inspections to ensure finished products meet specs.
• Complete routine maintenance per Daily Equipment Care.
• Review production schedules and ensure timely preparations.
• Coordinate with offsiders for materials and tooling.
• Assist with training and cross-skilling.

Skills

Mechanical Aptitude

Attention to Detail

Problem Solving

Reading Technical Drawings

Teamwork

Tools

Gluing Machinery

Job description

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.

Join our team and play a key role in delivering high-quality packaging solutions.

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Gluing Operators to join our Finishing team. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for the efficient operation of gluing machinery, ensuring finished cartons meet customer quality expectations while achieving productivity and safety targets.

Working as part of a collaborative production team, you will lead the day-to-day operation of your production line, coordinate activities with your offsider, and contribute to the successful conversion of printed and cut cartons into premium finished packaging products.

Full training will be provided to the successful candidate who demonstrates the right attitude, reliability and commitment to quality and safety,

Key Responsibilities

As a Gluing Machine Operator, you will:

• Set up and prepare gluing machinery to required production standards (make-ready).
• Operate gluing equipment to achieve quality, productivity, and efficiency targets.
• Monitor machine performance to ensure continuous and efficient operation.
• Conduct quality inspections and checks to ensure finished products meet specifications and customer requirements.
• Complete routine maintenance tasks in line with Daily Equipment Care requirements.
• Review production schedules and workload to ensure preparation activities are completed on time.
• Coordinate with offsiders to ensure jobs, materials, and tooling are ready for production.
• Assist with training and cross-skilling team members where required.
• Identify and troubleshoot machine or production issues to minimise downtime.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organised work environment.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

Skills & Capabilities

• Strong mechanical aptitude and technical troubleshooting ability.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Effective problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, including knife and glue line layouts.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Knowledge

• Understanding of cutting and creasing processes.
• Sound knowledge of gluing machinery and production processes.
• Knowledge of machine functions, operation, and tooling requirements.
• Understanding of pre-make-ready processes.
• Knowledge and experience gained through working as an offsider.

Experience

• Previous experience operating gluing machines is desirable.
• Previous manufacturing or production environment experience is preferred.
• A strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn are essential

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a dynamic and supportive production team.
• Work with industry-leading packaging solutions and equipment.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• A safety-focused workplace committed to quality and continuous improvement.
• Opportunity to build your skills and grow your career within the business.

If you are mechanically minded, quality-focused, and enjoy working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.