Gluer Operator Trainee

Smurfit Westrock; Marion (NC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Gluer Operator Trainee in Marion, NC. You will learn to set up, operate, and maintain folder/gluer equipment, assisting with machine setup, monitoring production, and ensuring quality and safety on all runs.

The role emphasizes following SOPs, preparing for future production, and maintaining a safe, organized workspace while developing skills to advance as a Gluer Operator within a global packaging organization.

Qualifications

• Experience as feeder catcher and ability to read job tickets and safety rules.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and color vision testing.
• Willingness to work overtime and maintain good attendance.
• Basic arithmetic and computer skills for reporting and calculations.

Responsibilities

• Assist in setting up jobs according to job tickets and instructions.
• Review ticket specifications including run speed, labels, folding orientation, and ship dates.
• Operate folder/gluer equipment at required speeds while ensuring quality and safety.
• Follow all SOPs relevant to the role and department.
• Monitor production schedules and prep for upcoming jobs.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and assist other operators as needed.

Skills

Feeder catcher experience

Mechanical aptitude

Reading safety rules

Color vision

Basic arithmetic

Basic computer skills

Job description

Description & Requirements

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.

The Opportunity

As a Gluer Operator Trainee, you will develop the skills necessary to become a proficient and independent Gluer Operator by working closely with experienced operators. In this role, you will learn to set up, operate, and maintain folder/gluer equipment in accordance with job ticket specifications and standard operating procedures. A typical day includes assisting with machine setup, monitoring production, ensuring quality standards are met, and preparing for future production runs while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock

• Assist in setting up jobs according to job ticket instructions and approved structure.
• Review job tickets for specifications, including run speed, labels, folding orientation, skid size, quantity, and ship dates.
• Operate gluing equipment at required speeds while maintaining quality, waste, and safety standards.
• Follow all standard operating procedures relevant to the role and department.
• Monitor production schedules to ensure readiness for current and upcoming jobs.
• Use hand tools to correctly form cartons.
• Verify materials for feeder, packer, and pad-lock operations.
• Complete production reports, logbooks, and ensure PECAS accuracy.
• Prepare equipment and materials for efficient future setups.
• Assist operators, feeders, and packers as needed to meet production goals.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance on equipment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Support operation of folder/gluer systems, including make-ready and pack stations.

What you need to succeed

• At least90 days of experience as a feeder catcher.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedural manuals.
• Successful completion of a basic reading test.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude or ability to pass a mechanical test.
• Successful completion of color vision and color hue tests.
• Strong attendance and willingness to work overtime as needed.
• Basic personal computer skills.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations.
• Ability to meet training matrix requirements and pass skills testing.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation.

Physical Demands

The employee must be able to sit, stand, walk, talk, see, and hear. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

What we offer

• A culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities.
• Competitive compensation based on skills and experience.
• Career growth 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.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.