Die Cutting Operator

General Converting; Bolingbrook (IL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

PTO

Paid Leave

401k

HSA

Life Insurance

Job summary

General Converting in Bolingbrook, IL is looking for a Die Cutter Operator to set up, operate and maintain die cutting equipment for cartons, inserts and packaging components in a fast-paced shop. The role emphasizes adherence to customer specs, quality standards and SQF safety practices, on a full-time, 24/6 production schedule.

You will read job orders, run setup, perform changeovers, train teammates, and participate in continuous improvement efforts while maintaining safe, clean work areas

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years of experience operating industrial die cutting equipment preferred.
• Ability to read and follow job tickets and specifications.
• Must be able to communicate in English and understand directions.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate die cutting machines per job tickets and SOPs.
• Install and align dies, cutting plates, and related tooling.
• Adjust machine settings to ensure proper cut, score, perf, and stripping.
• Perform changeovers between jobs to minimize downtime and waste.
• Read schedules and job orders to determine production needs.
• Document quality audits and adjust presses as needed.

Skills

Die cutting equipment operation

Quality audits

Safety compliance

Shift work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Die cutting machines

Job description

Role Summary: The Die Cutter Operator ensures the proper cutting of sheets in accordance with customer specification. The operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining die cutting equipment to convert printed or unprinted sheets into finished cartons, inserts, or other packaging components according to job specifications, quality standards and safety requirements.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Set up and operate die cutting machines according to job tickets, production specifications, and standard operating procedures.
• Install and align dies, cutting plates, make‑ready materials, and related tooling.
• Adjust machine settings (speed, pressure, guides, registration, stripping units, etc.) to ensure proper cut, score, perf, and stripping.
• Perform changeovers between jobs efficiently while minimizing downtime and waste.
• Read and comprehend the schedule to determine the sequence of production.
• Read and interpret job order specification sheet to determine needs for cutting.
• Make ready and set up the cutting press in accordance to job order specification.
• Perform and document quality audits of production to ensure quality, adjust press as necessary.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical press issues and tooling defects/discrepancies.
• Ability to use a hand or fork truck to move cut loads into the staging area.
• Support department to improve process efficiencies.
• Coordinate with press operators, gluer/folder operators, and other departments to ensure smooth workflow.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance (cleaning, lubrication, basic adjustments) on die cutting equipment.
• Work cooperatively with other operators, helpers, and supervisors to meet production goals.
• Train or assist in training other team members and new hires on die cutting operations as directed.
• Participate in shift handoffs, production meetings, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Follow all Safety and SQF Protocols.

Safety Policies and Practices:

• Follow all company safety policies, including machine guarding, PPE (personal protective equipment), lockout/tagout, and safe lifting practices.
• Follow all Plant rules, Processes, and Hygiene procedures, related to production of Safe Quality Foods.
• Keep work area clean and organized: remove scrap, sweep, and maintain clear walkways in accordance with housekeeping standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) typically required.
• 3+ years of experience operating industrial die cutting equipment in a printing, packaging, or converting environment preferred.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during an 8‑to 12‑hour shift.
• Frequent reaching, bending, stooping, and handling of materials.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull materials and products up to approximately 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to understand and speak clearly, communicate, and understand directions in English as needed.

Schedule:

• Full time position24/6 Production
• Overtime and weekends based on production needs.

Salary: $25.00 - $30.00/hour base

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• PTO
• Paid Leave
• 401k
• HSA
• Life Insurance