Die Cutter Feeder

Smurfit Westrock; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Comprehensive training

Career growth opportunities

Safety-focused culture

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Die Cutter Assistant to support die-cutting operations, move and prepare raw materials, and assist with machine setup in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

You will stage materials, help with make-readies, verify tickets, feed material, and inspect for quality, contributing to safe and efficient production workflows at our Illinois facility.

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and interest in manufacturing equipment.
• Material handling experience preferred.
• Experience feeding die-cutting equipment preferred.
• Ability to read and write instructions and production docs.
• Ability to pass a basic reading assessment and math skills.

Responsibilities

• Receive and stage material for die-cutting operations.
• Assist with make-readies, machine setup, and production activities.
• Verify material type and quantity for production runs.
• Feed material continuously and inspect for defects.
• Set up and operate the mechanical die-cutter feeder.
• Maintain clean, safe, organized work area and document info on pallets.
• Transport cut materials to the next processing stage.
• Follow safety, quality standards and company policies.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Material handling

Reading & writing instructions

Basic math

Teamwork

Safety compliance

Overtime readiness

RF scanning familiarity

Tools

Forklifts & pallet jacks

RF scanner equipment

Die-cutting feeder equipment

Job description

Description & Requirements

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.

Description & Requirements

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.

The Opportunity

This role supports die-cutting operations by facilitating the movement and preparation of raw materials, feeding equipment during production runs, and assisting with machine setup and make-readies. The Die Cutter Assistant plays a critical role in maintaining production flow, ensuring material quality, and supporting safe and efficient operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive material from the shipping department and stage loads for die-cutting operations.
• Prepare and restack material as needed to ensure clean and accurate cutting results.
• Assist the Die Cutter Operator with make-readies, machine setup, and production activities.
• Review job tickets and verify the correct material type and quantity for production runs.
• Feed material during machine operation in a continuous and efficient manner.
• Inspect materials for defects, damage, or quality concerns.
• Position images on sheets according to provided layouts and specifications.
• Set up and operate the mechanical die-cutter feeder.
• Empty waste receptacles and maintain proper material flow throughout the department.
• Perform housekeeping duties and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Create and apply pallet tags containing material, lot, and job information.
• Transport cut materials to the appropriate department for the next stage of processing.
• Retrieve stock and materials as needed to support production requirements.
• Follow all safety procedures, quality standards, and company policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What You Need To Succeed

• Mechanical aptitude and interest in manufacturing equipment.
• Material handling experience preferred.
• Experience feeding die-cutting equipment preferred.
• Ability to read and write instructions, correspondence, and production documentation.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to pass a basic reading assessment.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to operate material-handling equipment, including forklifts, electric pallet jacks, and reach trucks.
• Ability to pass a mechanical assessment or demonstrate mechanical aptitude through previous work experience.
• Ability to learn and utilize radio frequency (RF) scanning equipment.
• Basic computer skills, including email and data entry.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Willingness to work overtime as needed, including during peak production periods.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

What We Offer

• A workplace culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training with opportunities to develop technical skills and advance your career.
• Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and performance.
• A career with a global packaging leader where Safety, Sustainability, and Inclusion are foundational to daily operations.
• Opportunities to grow within manufacturing and production operations.

The starting rate is $18 per hour, depending on your role, level, and location. The benefits for this role may include short-term bonus incentive, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid sick leave as required by applicable state/local law, 10 days of paid vacation, and 11 days of paid holidays, subject to annual change. Your actual pay will be based on your work location and other factors, such as your skills, experience, and education.

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

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.