Machine Helper - 1st Shift

Pratt Industries; Emmaus (PA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Pratt Industries, Inc. is seeking a reliable Machine Helper to assist operators with setup, operation, and cleanup of presses in our production facility in Emmaus, PA.

You will monitor board quality, address maintenance needs, and help keep the production schedule on track while supporting cross-training and career advancement. The role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and a proactive approach to improving cost, quality, and service goals.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prefer 6 months in corrugated industry (Flexo/DieCut/Press).

Responsibilities

• Set up slotting, feed, and die-cut sections on machines.
• Assist operator with machine operations and maintain production flow.
• Monitor board quality and report defects.
• Submit maintenance requests and assist in equipment upkeep.
• Support adherence to production schedule and suggest improvements.
• Cross-train on other machines and pursue advancement.
• Complete required reports accurately and on time.

Skills

Read instructions

Tape measure reading

Quality monitoring

Technical understanding

Education

High school diploma or GED

Corrugated industry experience (6 months)

Job description

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Machine Helper to assist operators in the setup, operation, and cleanup of presses in our production facility. The Machine Helper will be responsible for ensuring smooth operations by supporting the machine operator, monitoring board quality, addressing maintenance needs, and ensuring the production schedule is followed efficiently. This role offers opportunities for advancement and cross-training in other departments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Set-Up and Operation Support:
• Set up slotting, feed, and die-cut sections on machines following proper setup techniques.
• Assist the operator with machine operations and ensure smooth production flow.
• Work at a pace set by the machine operator to maintain optimal production levels.
• Quality Control:
• Monitor board quality, including checking for loose liners, warps, dimensions, caliper, and other defects.
• Report quality issues to the operator and sort defective products as needed to maintain machine efficiency.
• Equipment Support:
• Turn in maintenance work orders for necessary repairs and proactively assist in the maintenance of equipment.
• Follow all company safety and housekeeping protocols to ensure a safe and clean work environment.
• Scheduling and Production Efficiency:
• Assist operators in adhering to the production schedule and recommend improvements to optimize cost, quality, and service goals.
• Report any scheduling or maintenance issues.
• Cross-Training and Advancement:
• Cross-train on other machines as needed to increase skills and flexibility.
• Be willing to progress to a machine operator role as opportunities arise.
• Administrative Duties:
• Complete necessary reports accurately and on time.
• Additional Responsibilities:
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Job Requirements:

Education and Experience:

Preferred:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Prior work experience in the corrugated industry and 6 months of experience as a Flexo or DieCut Helper or in the Press and Finishing Departments.

Skills:

• Language Skills: Ability to read and follow instructions on factory masters.
• Mathematical Skills: Proficient in reading a tape measure with speed and accuracy, and capable of calculating figures, percentages, measurements, and applying basic math concepts.
• Reasoning Ability: Ability to apply common sense to carry out instructions and handle problems involving concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Technical Skills: Basic understanding of equipment design and operation, production specifications, and product quality standards.

Physical Demands:

• Regularly required to stand, walk, talk, and hear.
• Frequently required to use hands to manipulate materials and perform tasks.
• Occasional sitting, and ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, wet/humid conditions, and occasional exposure to fumes, high places, airborne particles, and vibration.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Why Pratt Industries?

• Competitive compensation and benefits packages.
• Opportunities for growth and development within a leading company in the packaging industry.
• A culture of safety, teamwork, and excellence.