Die Cutter Operator 3rd shift

Smurfit-Westrock; East Flat Rock (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock seeks an experienced Die Cutter Operator to set up, maintain, and operate flatbed die cutting equipment, producing products to customer specifications. The role requires hands-on machine operation, troubleshooting, make-readies, and collaboration with production teams to ensure quality, efficiency, and safety.

The candidate should have 2+ years of die cutting experience, strong mechanical aptitude, basic data entry skills, and the ability to read technical documentation.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience running board stock and paper on flatbed die cutters.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Basic computer skills (data entry and recordkeeping).
• Ability to perform basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
• Ability to read and use rulers, calipers, micrometers, and other inspection equipment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate die cutting equipment to meet job specifications.
• Read and interpret job tickets, work instructions, and setup documentation.
• Monitor machine operation to identify malfunctions and make necessary adjustments.
• Perform make-readies, blind make-readies, and spotting operations.
• Conduct routine adjustments during production runs to maintain quality and throughput.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Open machines to remove or replace damaged product using hand tools.
• Maintain accurate production and time-tracking records.
• Keep the work area clean and compliant with safety standards.
• Train other employees on machine setup, operation, and die handling.
• Coordinate with team members and other departments to support production efficiency.
• Follow department policies, procedures, and safety or environmental guidelines.

Skills

Die cutter operation

Reading job tickets

Mechanical aptitude

Data entry

Basic math

Use of measurement tools

Color vision

Tools

Rulers

Calipers

Micrometers

Inspection equipment

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.

**Relocation Assistance May Be Provided**

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Die Cutter Operator to set up, maintain, and operate flatbed die cutting equipment to accurately produce product that meets customer specifications. This role involves hands‑on machine operation, troubleshooting, make‑ready work, and collaboration with production teams to ensure quality, efficiency, and safety. The Die Cutter Operator plays a critical role in maintaining production flow and product integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate die cutting equipment to meet job specifications.
• Read and interpret job tickets, work instructions, and setup documentation.
• Monitor machine operation to identify malfunctions and make necessary adjustments.
• Perform make‑readies, blind make‑readies, and spotting operations.
• Conduct routine adjustments during production runs to maintain quality and throughput.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Open machines to remove or replace damaged product using appropriate hand tools.
• Maintain accurate production and time‑tracking records.
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and compliant with safety standards.
• Train other employees on machine setup, operation, and die handling.
• Coordinate with team members and other departments to support production efficiency.
• Follow all department policies, standard operating procedures, and safety or environmental guidelines.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support operations.

What You Need to Succeed

• Minimum of 2 years of experience running board stock and paper on flatbed die cutters.
• Strong mechanical aptitude; ability to pass a mechanical assessment if required.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Basic computer skills (data entry and recordkeeping).
• Ability to perform basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
• Ability to read and use rulers, calipers, micrometers, and other inspection equipment.
• Knowledge of:
  • Nicking processes and spotting sheets
  • Stripping boards and counter plates
  • Rubber, cork, matrix, underlay, and spotting tape selection
  • Benders, bridgers, miters, and cutters for re‑knifing
  • Tonnage adjustment, cube/manual tonnage operation
  • Use of 1mm counter plates and register pins
  • Die repair including creasing rule and knife modification
  • Recognition of common packaging defects (cracking, tearing, scoring issues, pressure marks, etc.)
• Ability to pass color vision and color‑hue tests.
• Reliable attendance and willingness to work overtime as required during busy 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 and opportunities for continued skill development.
• Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and technical expertise.
• A long‑term career with a global packaging leader where Safety, Sustainability, and Inclusion are core values driving daily operations and business decisions.

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.