Feeder Operator

Smurfit Westrock; Hendersonville (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Press Feeder/Operator to support press operations and maintain press readiness for high-quality production.

You will prepare materials, manage ink and dampening systems, assist with mounting and setup, and perform routine adjustments to keep production running smoothly. Safety, accuracy, and housekeeping are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to pass a basic reading test.
• Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Mechanical aptitude demonstrated through testing or prior experience.
• Ability to pass color vision and color hue tests.
• Ability to obtain a forklift license.
• Strong attendance and reliability.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Set up the mechanical press feeder for production runs.
• Review job tickets and select appropriate paper type and quantity.
• Load and unload paper while inspecting for defects and damage.
• Maintain ink levels by replenishing ink fountains as needed.
• Prepare and monitor dampening systems including water solution, pH balance, and conductivity.
• Assist press operator with mounting plates, blankets, and packing.
• Perform routine adjustments during press runs to ensure quality output.
• Mark printed sheets and verify accuracy against specifications.
• Maintain cleanliness of the press area and complete housekeeping duties.
• Complete ISO forms and perform quality checks accurately and on time.
• Move printed and unprinted stock safely as needed.
• Follow all safety regulations and company policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Reading safety rules

Basic math

Mechanical aptitude

Color vision

Forklift license

Attendance/reliability

Job description

The Opportunity

Operate the Feeder and support press operations by assisting with setup, repair, and maintenance. This role plays a key part in ensuring efficient production runs, maintaining press readiness, and supporting overall print quality. On a typical day, you will prepare materials for press runs, maintain ink and water systems, assist with press setup, perform routine adjustments, and ensure the work area meets cleanliness and safety standards.

How You Will Impact Smurfit Westrock

• Operate and set up the mechanical press feeder for production runs.
• Review job tickets and select appropriate paper type and quantity.
• Load and unload paper while inspecting for defects and damage.
• Maintain ink levels by obtaining and filling ink fountains as needed.
• Prepare and monitor dampening systems including water solution, pH balance, and conductivity.
• Assist press operator with mounting plates, blankets, and packing.
• Perform routine adjustments during press runs to ensure quality output.
• Mark printed sheets and verify accuracy against specifications.
• Maintain cleanliness of the press area and complete housekeeping duties.
• Complete ISO forms and perform quality checks accurately and on time.
• Move printed and unprinted stock safely as needed.
• Follow all safety regulations and company policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What You Need to Succeed

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to pass a basic reading test.
• Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Mechanical aptitude demonstrated through testing or prior experience.
• Ability to pass color vision and color hue tests.
• Ability to obtain a forklift license.
• Strong attendance and reliability.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation.

Physical Demands

The role requires sitting, standing, mobility, talking, and hearing. Employees must be able to perform the physical demands necessary to complete essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals.

What We Offer

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities.
• Competitive compensation aligned with skills and experience.
• Career growth opportunities within a global packaging organization focused on sustainability, safety, and inclusion.

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