Job Description – Rotary Die Cut Operator Position Summary
The Rotary Die Cut Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and quality-focused setup and operation of rotary die-cutting equipment used to manufacture corrugated packaging products. This position ensures all products meet customer specifications for dimensions, die-cut accuracy, print registration, and overall quality while maximizing machine productivity and minimizing waste.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Set up and operate rotary die-cutting equipment according to production schedules and work orders.
- Read and interpret production orders, engineering drawings, and customer specifications.
- Install and align rotary dies, print plates (when applicable), anvils, feed rolls, and stripping components.
- Verify correct board grade, flute profile, dimensions, print registration, and die-cut accuracy before production begins.
- Perform test runs and make adjustments to ensure products meet all quality requirements.
- Monitor machine performance throughout production and make adjustments as necessary to maintain quality and efficiency.
- Inspect finished products for dimensional accuracy, clean cuts, score quality, print registration, and overall appearance.
- Identify and correct quality issues such as incomplete cuts, cracked scores, poor registration, and board damage.
- Troubleshoot mechanical and operational issues to minimize downtime.
- Coordinate with production helpers, material handlers, quality personnel, and supervisors to maintain efficient workflow.
- Perform routine preventive maintenance, lubrication, cleaning, and daily equipment inspections.
- Change dies, anvils, and machine tooling efficiently to reduce setup time.
- Complete production reports, quality documentation, downtime records, and material usage reports.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area using 5S principles.
- Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and plant operating procedures.
- Assist with training new operators and production personnel as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Minimum 2 years of experience operating rotary die-cutting equipment in a corrugated manufacturing environment preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret production specifications and engineering drawings.
- Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment problems.
- Basic computer skills for production reporting and machine interfaces.
- Ability to accurately use tape measures, calipers, and other measuring devices.
- Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
Preferred Experience
- Experience operating rotary die-cutting equipment manufactured by companies such as:
- TCY
- Bobst
- Ward
- Martin
- Mitsubishi
- Dong Fang
- Emba
- Langston
- Experience with:
- Rotary die-cut tooling
- Print registration systems
- Anvil maintenance and resurfacing
- Quick-change tooling systems
- Waste reduction and setup optimization
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the work shift.
- Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Frequently bend, stoop, twist, climb, and reach while performing machine setups.
- Ability to distinguish colors for print inspection.
- Work safely around moving machinery in a manufacturing environment with noise, dust, and varying temperatures.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Thorough understanding of corrugated packaging manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of rotary die-cutting principles and machine operation.
- Ability to identify die wear, anvil damage, registration issues, and quality defects.
- Strong troubleshooting and mechanical adjustment skills.
- Commitment to producing high-quality products with minimal waste.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to prioritize work and meet production deadlines.
Performance Expectations
- Produce quality products that consistently meet customer specifications.
- Achieve established production and efficiency goals.
- Minimize setup times, downtime, and material waste.
- Maintain equipment in excellent operating condition.
- Follow all safety procedures and company policies.
- Demonstrate dependability, attendance, and teamwork.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to increase productivity and reduce costs.
This position works in a fast-paced corrugated manufacturing facility and regularly interacts with production personnel, maintenance technicians, quality assurance staff, supervisors, scheduling personnel, and shipping employees.
______________________________________ Pay $14.00