Die Cut Operator

Smurfit Westrock; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock in Indianapolis, IN, is seeking a Die Cut Operator to set up, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot die cutting equipment, ensuring safety, quality and efficiency on the production line. You'll review job tickets, perform make-readies, monitor runs, adjust processes, perform routine maintenance, inspect output, and collaborate across departments to maximize throughput.

A high school diploma and 2+ years of machine operating experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum of two years of machine operating experience; flatbed die cutters/paperboard preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret operating instructions, safety rules, and production documentation.
• Mechanical aptitude with ability to troubleshoot and adjust machines.
• Reliability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment; color vision testing may be required.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate die cutting equipment to meet customer specs and quality requirements.
• Review job tickets and production docs to determine setup requirements.
• Monitor equipment performance and adjust to maintain quality and productivity.
• Perform make-readies, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance.
• Inspect products for quality and identify defects requiring corrective action.
• Maintain accurate production records using designated forms and systems.
• Replace damaged materials and adjust machines using appropriate tools.
• Assist team members with setup, operation, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate across departments to improve workflow and maximize production efficiency.
• Follow all procedures, instructions, environmental requirements, and safety policies.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Reading instructions

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Inspection tools

Job description

The Opportunity

Join Smurfit Westrock as a Die Cut Operator, where you will play a critical role in producing high-quality packaging products that meet customer specifications and production standards. In this position, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting die cutting equipment while ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency throughout the production process.

This hands-on role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement. A typical day may include reviewing job tickets, performing machine make-readies, monitoring production runs, making adjustments to maintain quality standards, completing routine maintenance, training team members, and collaborating with production teams to maximize operational efficiency.

How You Will Impact Smurfit Westrock

• Set up and operate die cutting equipment to produce products according to customer specifications and quality requirements.
• Review job tickets and production documentation to determine setup requirements and production instructions.
• Monitor equipment performance and make adjustments as needed to maintain quality and productivity throughout production runs.
• Perform make-readies, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance to support efficient machine operation.
• Inspect products for quality and identify defects or production issues requiring corrective action.
• Maintain accurate production and operational records using designated forms and systems.
• Replace damaged materials and perform machine adjustments using appropriate tools and equipment.
• Support training efforts by assisting team members in machine setup, operation, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with employees across multiple departments to improve workflow and maximize production efficiencies.
• Follow all department procedures, work instructions, environmental requirements, and safety policies.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

What You Need to Succeed

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum of two years of machine operating experience required; experience with flatbed die cutters, paper, or paperboard materials preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret operating instructions, safety rules, maintenance procedures, and production documentation.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and make machine adjustments.
• Ability to use rulers, calipers, micrometers, and other inspection equipment.
• Knowledge of die cutting setup procedures, make-readies, spotting sheets, stripping boards, counter plates, matrix, spotting tape, and underlaying techniques.
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot common packaging defects, including cracking, tearing, scoring issues, pressure marks, and alignment concerns.
• Knowledge of die repair processes, cutting knives, creasing rules, and related tooling.
• Ability to maintain reliable attendance and work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Must pass color vision and color hue testing requirements.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

What We Offer

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities
• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.