Finishing Operator

Momentara; Katy (TX); On-site; USD 17,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Momentara in Katy, TX is seeking a Finishing Operator to confidently set up and operate guillotine paper cutters, trimming sheets to precise sizes. You will read job tickets, adjust settings, and verify first cuts with precision tools to ensure quality output.

The role requires 2+ years of experience with commercial guillotine cutters, familiarity with Polar/Wohlenberg systems, and a strong math/measurement background. Overtime and weekend shifts may apply in a fast-paced printing environment.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent is required.
• 2+ years experience operating commercial guillotine cutters.
• Familiarity with Polar, Wohlenberg, and other cutters.
• Strong math skills and ability to read cut lists and job tickets.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for setup and adjustments.
• Attention to detail and quality control.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain guillotine paper cutters per job specs.
• Read job tickets, layouts, and cutting instructions for accuracy.
• Program cutter settings using digital control systems for precise cuts.
• Check first cuts with calipers, micrometers, or rulers and adjust as needed.
• Cut various materials including coated/uncoated paper and stock.
• Jog, stack, and remove waste to support downstream production.
• Follow safety protocols for cutter operation and blade handling.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and other teams to keep equipment running smoothly.
• Maintain production records and logs.

Skills

Strong math skills

Attention to detail

Mechanical aptitude

Reading job tickets

Quality control

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Polar Cutter software

Bobst/Polar/ Wohlenberg cutter familiarity

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Finishing Operator

Hourly Full Time Katy, TX, US

25 days ago Requisition ID: 1028

Salary Range: $12.00 To $17.00 Hourly

SUMMARY:

The Finishing Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient setup and operation of guillotine paper cutters used to trim printed sheets or raw stock to precise dimensions. The operator must ensure quality, accuracy, and productivity while maintaining a clean and organized work area. Experience operating flatbed die-cutters such as Bobst (40\") Thomson (53\") Cahue (79\") Rollem (30\") and Kluge (19\") and with guillotine cutters such as Polar and Wohlenberg in various sizes (e.g., 54\", 110\") is preferred.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Core duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Set up, operate, and maintain guillotine paper cutters to trim paper or printed material according to job specifications.
• Read and interpret job tickets, layouts, and cutting instructions to ensure accuracy and compliance with customer requirements.
• Program cutter settings using digital control systems to achieve precise cuts.
• Check first cuts for accuracy using measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, rulers) and make adjustments as needed.
• Cut various materials including coated/uncoated paper, cover stock, label stock, and specialty substrates.
• Perform proper jogging, stacking, and waste removal to support downstream production processes.
• Follow all safety protocols for cutter operation, including handling of blades and mechanical guards.
• Collaborate with the Maintenance Department to ensure maintenance and minor repairs are completed to keep equipment running efficiently.
• Work closely with pressroom, bindery, and grand-format teams to meet production deadlines.
• Maintain accurate production records and log sheets.

REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of experience operating commercial guillotine cutters.
• Familiarity with cutter types such as Polar, Challenge, Wohlenberg, or similar.
• Strong math skills and ability to read job dockets, layouts, and cut lists.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for equipment setup and adjustments.
• Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, and quality control.
• Ability to stand, lift (up to 50 lbs), and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or different shifts as required.
• Experience in commercial printing, finishing, or packaging environments.
• Knowledge of paper grain, weight, and characteristics relevant to cutting performance.
• Familiarity with cutting software (e.g., Polar or similar systems).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Able to stand/work on feet for extended periods.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Manufacturing floor with exposure to cutting machinery, paper dust, and noise.
• Use of PPE as required (e.g., gloves, safety glasses, ear protection).