Cutter Operator

Wallace Graphics; Duluth (GA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Wallace Graphics in Georgia is seeking a Cutter Operator to set up, program, and operate cutting machinery for sheets used in bindery steps. This role emphasizes accurate patterns, measurements, and adherence to quality standards.

Prior experience with Polar Cutter is required. Responsibilities include reviewing job specs, programming efficient cut layouts, maintaining equipment, logging production data, and ensuring safe, clean work areas.

Qualifications

• Experience operating Polar Cutter and programming for efficient layouts.
• Ability to read job jackets and cut patterns precisely.
• Strong math skills and mechanical understanding of cutter machinery.

Responsibilities

• Review job specifications to determine cutting and packing requirements.
• Program cutter for efficient pattern layouts and maintain equipment.
• Set up and adjust cutter to specifications during production runs.
• Log data collections and inspect finished material for quality.
• Keep work area clean and safe; assist with related bindery tasks as needed.

Skills

Polar Cutter operation

Sheet cutting

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

English communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Polar Cutter hardware

Job description

Shift: 3x 12-hour shifts (Mon/Tue/Wed) 4AM to 4PM

Wallace Graphics is a leader in the industry and among the largest and fastest growing commercial print companies headquartered in Georgia. Our services span commercial, direct mail, book manufacturing, financial, digital wide format, 3D printing, digital storefront implementation and management, branded apparel, and merchandising. We offer full-service solutions for our clients using the latest technology with the very best equipment.

The Cutter Operator is responsible for the set-up, operation, and maintenance of cutter machinery for cutting sheets in preparation for other bindery functions or final packing for customer. Familiar with common cutting patterns, crop marks, and measurements. Applicants must have previous experience with a Polar Cutter.

Core Responsibilities

• Review job specifications to determine downstream bindery operations, cutting and packing requirements.
• Thoroughly read and understand job jackets to plan work process to ensure meeting of customer specifications.
• Understand cut patterns and be able to program cutter in most efficient pattern.
• Set up and adjust assigned cutter to specifications at the beginning and during production run as required for, adherence to all quality and customer requirements.
• Adjust/change cutting blade and lubricate as needed.
• Remove sheets of printed or unprinted paper stack from the load and place them on the cutter bed. Jog and align sheets against the cutter guide in preparation for cutting.
• May supervise an assistant operator jogging sheets for the cutter.
• Log into and record data collections (PACE).
• Examine cut material for any imperfections and adjust computer program as needed.
• Remove finished or pre-finished material from the cutter bed and stack on pallets or carts for shipment to the customer or next operation.
• Ensure the completion of jobs meeting quality and quantity requirements.
• Ensures that their work area and the rest of the bindery remain clean and tidy
• Perform all required maintenance to machines according to departmental procedures.
• Troubleshoot machine problems, resolving if possible, notifying Plant Manager as needed
• Follow and comply with all safety and work rules and regulations. Maintain departmental housekeeping standards.
• Assist with collating and finishing as needed

Education & Certification/Licensing Requirements

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Qualifications & Skill Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Technical expertise navigating Polar Cutter control panel and parts
• Experience with the process of loading, cutting, and unloading sheets off the cutter machinery
• Ability to understand written and verbal instructions, press imposition and rule-up sheets
• Ability to read and understand Job Jackets
• Perform basic mathematical calculations
• Understanding basic repair and maintenance of cutter machinery
• Understanding basic safety protocols when handling cutter machinery
• Effective time management skills
• Effective teaming skills
• Ability to direct fellow crew members in the overall operation involved in the job
• Must be mechanically inclined
• Must have basic electronic and computer keyboard knowledge.
• Stand and walk 95% of the time. (Safety shoes required)
• Ability to communicate verbally in English, bilingual a plus.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of standing at a machinery; fast paced and occasionally high stress production company setting
• Extensive lifting and bending actions.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 30 pounds
• Effective visual and hearing abilities, with or without aid, suitable for an office and production warehouse environment
• May use solvents when cleaning; oils during lubrication; and alcohol or alcohol replacement during upkeep and operation of unit.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee in this position. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable. To perform this job successfully, the employee will possess the skills, aptitudes, attitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.