Folder gluer Operators

The Challenge Printing Company; Sanford (NC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Challenge Printing Company, based in Sanford, NC, is seeking a full-time Folder Gluer Operator to join our pharmaceutical packaging production team. You will set up, operate, and monitor folder gluer machines to produce folding cartons and related materials, ensuring proper folding, gluing, and trimming per job specifications.

You will review tickets, adjust settings, perform routine quality checks, and document production and quality data while maintaining safety and GMP standards.

Qualifications

• Experience operating folder gluer or similar converting/finishing equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, technical specifications, and basic mechanical diagrams.
• Strong attention to detail, quality-focused mindset, and ability to perform visual inspections of printed and folded components.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for adjusting machine settings, performing minor troubleshooting, and completing routine equipment checks.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn GMP, FDA, or other regulated-industry standards relevant to pharmaceutical packaging.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift materials as needed within safety guidelines, and work in a fast-paced production environment.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with production, quality, and maintenance teams.
• High school diploma or equivalent; prior experience in printing, packaging, or pharmaceutical manufacturing is preferred.
• Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and follow all safety and quality procedures consistently.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and monitor folder gluer machines to produce folding cartons and related materials.
• Review job tickets and adjust machine settings for proper folding, gluing, and trimming.
• Perform routine quality inspections and maintain cleanliness and safety.
• Troubleshoot basic mechanical issues and document production and quality data.
• Collaborate with supervisors and team members to meet schedules and compliance standards.
• Follow GMP, quality procedures and safety guidelines at all times.

Skills

Folder gluer operation

Read job tickets & specs

Quality inspection

Basic mechanical troubleshooting

GMP/FDA knowledge

Safety procedures

Team communication

Shift flexibility

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Company Description

The Challenge Printing Company is a leading, exclusively pharmaceutical printer that has served global pharmaceutical manufacturers for over a century. Established in 1911, it is the largest independently owned pharmaceutical-focused printer in North America, specializing in labels, inserts, outserts, folding cartons, and pouches. The company is known for strict quality controls, advanced production capabilities, and a consultative approach to packaging solutions. Facilities in New Jersey and North Carolina offer nearly identical capabilities, providing strong operational redundancy and reliability. Guided by its mission, Challenge leverages cutting-edge technologies and information systems to transform regulatory requirements into innovative packaging solutions.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site Folder Gluer Operator role based in Sanford, NC. The Folder Gluer Operator sets up, operates, and monitors folder gluer machines to produce pharmaceutical packaging components such as folding cartons and related materials according to specifications. Responsibilities include reviewing job tickets, selecting and loading materials, adjusting machine settings for proper folding, gluing, and trimming, and performing routine quality inspections throughout production runs. The role also involves troubleshooting basic mechanical issues, maintaining equipment cleanliness and safety, completing production and quality documentation, and collaborating with supervisors and team members to meet production schedules and compliance standards. The operator is expected to follow all safety, GMP, and quality procedures to support reliable, compliant packaging output.

Qualifications

• Experience operating folder gluer or similar converting/finishing equipment in a manufacturing or packaging environment.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, technical specifications, and basic mechanical diagrams.
• Strong attention to detail, quality-focused mindset, and ability to perform visual inspections of printed and folded components.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for adjusting machine settings, performing minor troubleshooting, and completing routine equipment checks.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn GMP, FDA, or other regulated-industry standards relevant to pharmaceutical packaging.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift materials as needed within safety guidelines, and work in a fast-paced production environment.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with production, quality, and maintenance teams.
• High school diploma or equivalent; prior experience in printing, packaging, or pharmaceutical manufacturing is preferred.
• Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and follow all safety and quality procedures consistently.