First Shift Bindery Operator

Wallace Graphics; Duluth (GA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Wallace Graphics in Duluth, GA is seeking a Bindery Operator for early shifts (4AM start) to set up, operate, and maintain folding machinery (Stahl and MBO). The role requires 2-3 years of commercial bindery experience and familiarity with common folding patterns and measurements.

You will load sheets, adjust settings for speed and quality, monitor production, and ensure accurate packing for shipment. Strong English communication and safety compliance are essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Mechanical and attention to detail to operate bindery equipment.
• Ability to read job jackets and follow specs.

Responsibilities

• Review job specs to determine fold type, page sequence, and packing.
• Set up and adjust folding equipment for speed and quality.
• Load, jog, and position sheets for final production.
• Monitor operations and adjust as needed to meet quality.
• Operate two machines and coordinate with the Bindery manager.
• Record data collections and prepare goods for shipment.
• Maintain clean work area and perform routine machine maintenance.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

English communication

Math calculations

Reading job jackets

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Troubleshooting

Folder/cutter tech

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Heidelberg Folder

Cutter machinery

Job description

First Shift (4AM - 4:30PM) - 3x 12.5-hour shifts

Summary

The Bindery Operator is responsible for the set-up, operation, and maintenance of bindery machinery (Stahl and MBO) for folding sheets in preparation for other bindery functions or final packing for customer. Familiar with common folding patterns and measurements. The operator will need 2-3 years of experience operating commercial bindery equipment.

Core Responsibilities

• Review job specifications to determine page sequence, type of fold, page size and packing requirements.
• Pre-set side guide, fold plates, fold rollers, and any slitting blades or perforators required.
• Setup machine to ensure maximum speed/quality
• Load sheets onto feeder and jog sheets into proper positions to determine final settings.
• Monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions or to determine whether adjustments are needed.
• Adjust machine during production run as required for, adherence to all quality and customer requirements.
• May jog folded signatures or brochures for use in the next operation or for shipment to customer.
• May operate two or more machines simultaneously.
• Ensure the Bindery manager signs off on all jobs
• Log into and record data collections. (PACE)
• Remove finished or pre-finished material from the folder machinery and pack into cartons for shipment to the customer or stack on pallets or carts for the next operation.
• Ensure the completion of jobs meeting quality and quantity requirements.
• Ensures that their work area and the rest of the bindery remain clean and tidy
• Perform all required maintenance to machines according to departmental procedures.
• Troubleshoot machine problems, resolving if possible, notifying Plant Manager as needed
• Lubricate, clean, or make minor repairs to machine parts to keep machines in working condition.
• Follow and comply with all safety and work rules and regulations. Maintain departmental housekeeping standards.

Education & Certification/Licensing Requirements

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Qualifications & Skill Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Technical expertise navigating Heidelberg Folder or similar machinery control panel and parts.
• Experience with the process of loading, periodically checking quality control during production run, and unloading sheets off the cutter machinery.
• Ability to understand written and verbal instructions, press imposition and rule-up sheets
• Ability to read and understand Job Jackets
• Perform basic mathematical calculations
• Understanding basic repair and maintenance of cutter machinery
• Understanding basic safety protocols when handling cutter machinery
• Effective time management skills
• Effective teaming skills
• Ability to direct fellow crew members in the overall operation involved in the job
• Must be mechanically inclined
• Must have basic electronic and computer keyboard knowledge.
• Stand and walk 95% of the time. (Safety shoes required)
• Must be able to communicate verbally in English, bilingual a plus.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of standing at a machinery; fast paced and occasionally high stress production company setting
• Extensive lifting and bending actions.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 30 pounds
• Effective visual and hearing abilities, with or without aid, suitable for an office and production warehouse environment
• May use solvents when cleaning; oils during lubrication; and alcohol or alcohol replacement during upkeep and operation of unit.

EEO STATEMENT

We are an equal opportunity employer who recognizes the value of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state and local laws in jurisdictions where we operate. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [e-mail].