Die Cutter Operator

Smurfit Westrock plc; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Safety equipment provided

Overtime opportunities

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock plc in Woodridge, Illinois, is seeking a skilled operator to manage die-cutting equipment setup, maintenance, and operation. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise in die-cutting processes and maintain quality and production standards.

Responsibilities include monitoring operations, training team members, and performing routine maintenance. Knowledge of equipment, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols are critical for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years’ experience running board stock and paper on flatbed die cutters.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance manuals.
• Ability to identify common packaging defects.

Responsibilities

• Monitor machine operations and detect malfunctions.
• Train team members on machine setup and operation.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance.

Skills

Knowledge of Bobst die-cutting equipment

Experience running board stock and paper on flatbed die cutters

Ability to read safety rules and operating instructions

Basic computer skills

Ability to perform basic arithmetic

Ability to pass color vision tests

Reliable attendance

Tools

Measuring tools (rulers, calipers, micrometers)

Reknifing tools (benders, bridgers, miters)

Job description

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.

General Purpose

Responsible for performing manual and machine tasks related to the setup, maintenance, and operation of die-cutting equipment to produce products that meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production requirements.

Essential Job Functions

• Demonstrate general knowledge and understanding of die-cutting processes and equipment
• Read job tickets to determine setup specifications and operating instructions
• Monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions and determine necessary adjustments
• Follow all applicable standard operating procedures for the job, position, and department
• Perform routine adjustments during press runs to maintain consistent production
• Complete assigned work accurately and on schedule
• Follow instructions precisely
• Maintain daily production records using required forms
• Record production data, including time spent on specific tasks
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Open machines and remove or replace damaged product using hand tools
• Train team members on machine setup, operation, and safe use
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance and troubleshooting
• Perform make-ready procedures
• Collaborate with team members across departments to maximize production efficiency
• Follow established department policies, procedures, work instructions, and safety and environmental guidelines
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Bobst die-cutting equipment preferred
• Minimum of two years’ experience running board stock and paper on flatbed die cutters
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance manuals, and procedural documents
• Basic computer skills, including data entry
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Ability to maintain reliable attendance
• Ability to pass color vision and color hue tests
• Ability to meet or pass mechanical aptitude testing or demonstrate mechanical aptitude through prior experience
• Ability to use pre-make-ready tables
• Ability to use measuring and inspection tools, including rulers, calipers, and micrometers
• Knowledge of size and location requirements for the nicking process
• Ability to identify common packaging defects, including cracking, sharpness, heavy scoring, misalignment, tearing, light cutting, loose fibers, and pressure marks
• Ability to create spotting sheets and stripping boards
• Knowledge of rubber and cork selection and application
• Knowledge of reknifing tools and techniques, including benders, bridgers, miters, and cutters
• Knowledge of tonnage adjustment during cutting operations
• Knowledge of underlay use and spotting techniques
• Knowledge of cube and manual tonnage operation
• Knowledge of 1mm counter plates and use of register pins
• Ability to repair dies by modifying creasing rules and cutting knives
• Knowledge of blind make-readies and associated processes
• Knowledge of counter plates, matrix, spotting tape, and underlaying techniques
• Willingness to work overtime as needed; significant overtime may be required during peak periods
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation

Safe Work Requirements

• Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, safety shoes, gloves, hard hats, and task-specific PPE
• Comply with Smurfit WestRock employment policies, handbook, and workplace safety rules and procedures
• Submit safety concerns, safety work orders, and incident reports as required
• Follow site leadership direction as part of the Safety Excellence System
• Complete all required training through the Learning and Development system
• Understand and follow the STOP Work Process, including the right to stop work to ensure safety

Physical Demands

• Ability to meet physical demands necessary to perform essential job functions
• Reasonable accommodation

made for qualified individuals with disabilities

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.