Bindery Lead Operator / Foreman

Piworld; Broadview (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

FGS/Kelvyn Press in Broadview, IL is seeking an experienced Bindery Foreman to oversee the daily operations of the bindery department. The role requires hands-on leadership, setting up, operating, and troubleshooting bindery equipment, and ensuring products meet customer specifications.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in commercial printing bindery, strong mechanical aptitude, and proven supervisor skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in commercial printing bindery operations preferred.
• Previous supervisory, foreman, or lead operator experience strongly preferred.
• Strong hands-on experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting bindery equipment.
• Knowledge of Müller Martini saddle stitchers, MBO folders, and commercial paper-cutting equipment.
• Excellent mechanical aptitude and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, production specifications, and finishing instructions.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple jobs and changing priorities in a fast-paced production environment.
• Commitment to quality control, workplace safety, and meeting deadlines.
• Dependable, punctual, and willing to take ownership of department performance.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of a production environment, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate daily bindery department operations, including staffing, job assignments, and production scheduling.
• Oversee the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of bindery equipment.
• Work hands-on with bindery equipment as needed to maintain production schedules and meet deadlines.
• Ensure all finished products meet customer specifications and company quality standards.
• Coordinate with pressroom, production management, and other departments to maintain efficient workflow.
• Monitor production progress, identify potential delays, and proactively resolve issues.
• Train, supervise, and develop bindery employees to improve productivity, efficiency, and workmanship.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and coordinate preventive maintenance and repairs.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Monitor waste, minimize spoilage, and maximize equipment efficiency.
• Ensure all jobs are completed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule.
• Be willing to work additional hours or stay beyond the normal shift when production demands require it.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Quality control

Tools

Müller Martini saddle stitchers

MBO folders

Paper cutters

Shrink-wrapping machines

Hole punching machine

Waste baler

Job description

FGS/Kelvyn Press, an established commercial printing company located in Broadview, Illinois, is seeking an experienced, dependable, and hands‑on Bindery Foreman to oversee the daily operations of our bindery department.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in commercial printing and bindery operations, strong mechanical aptitude, and proven leadership skills. This individual must be comfortable supervising employees while also actively participating in equipment setup, operation, troubleshooting, and production when necessary.

We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work, understands the importance of meeting production deadlines, and can maintain an efficient, organized, and quality‑focused department.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate daily bindery department operations, including staffing, job assignments, and production scheduling.
• Oversee the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of bindery equipment.
• Work hands‑on with bindery equipment as needed to maintain production schedules and meet deadlines.
• Ensure all finished products meet customer specifications and company quality standards.
• Coordinate with pressroom, production management, and other departments to maintain efficient workflow.
• Monitor production progress, identify potential delays, and proactively resolve issues.
• Train, supervise, and develop bindery employees to improve productivity, efficiency, and workmanship.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and coordinate preventive maintenance and repairs.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Monitor waste, minimize spoilage, and maximize equipment efficiency.
• Ensure all jobs are completed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule.
• Be willing to work additional hours or stay beyond the normal shift when production demands require it.

Bindery Equipment

Our bindery department operates the following equipment:

• 2 Müller Martini Saddle Stitchers – 8 pockets each
• 3 MBO Folding Machines
• 2 Paper Cutters
• 2 Shrink‑Wrapping Machines
• 1 Hole Punching Machine
• 1 Vacuum Waste Paper Baler

Candidates should have strong working knowledge of saddle stitching, folding, cutting, and general bindery finishing processes. Direct experience with Müller Martini saddle stitchers and MBO folders is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in commercial printing bindery operations preferred.
• Previous supervisory, foreman, or lead operator experience strongly preferred.
• Strong hands‑on experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting bindery equipment.
• Knowledge of Müller Martini saddle stitchers, MBO folders, and commercial paper‑cutting equipment.
• Excellent mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, production specifications, and finishing instructions.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple jobs and changing priorities in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Commitment to quality control, workplace safety, and meeting deadlines.
• Dependable, punctual, and willing to take ownership of department performance.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of a production environment, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Schedule

This is primarily a first‑shift position, Monday through Friday. However, flexibility is essential. The Bindery Foreman must be willing and available to stay late or adjust working hours when necessary to complete jobs, meet customer deadlines, or address production requirements.

We are looking for someone who understands that commercial printing is deadline‑driven and who is willing to do what is necessary to keep production moving.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Stable, established commercial printing company.
• Opportunity to take a leadership role in an experienced production environment.