Machine Operator- Packaging

Quad/Graphics; Franklin, Northern (WI, KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) retirement savings

Paid time off

Holidays

Job summary

Quad/Graphics is seeking a Machine Operator - Packaging to turn rolls of paper stock into precisely sized sheets, starting up and running production lines. You will own setups, monitor quality, troubleshoot issues, maintain equipment, and support team success in a fast-paced packaging environment.

The role emphasizes hands-on operation, accuracy, and teamwork, with opportunities to mentor others and contribute to continuous improvement in a manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience as a Machine Operator.
• Machine repair and maintenance experience required.
• Packaging industry experience preferred but not required.
• Marquip Sheeting equipment preferred but will consider applicants with large‑format sheeting experience.

Responsibilities

• Review the computer system to understand job priorities and confirm orders are accurate and complete.
• Determine optimal machine setup specifications and load stock onto the roll stand.
• Follow Job Orders and SOPs throughout production.
• Produce start‑up samples, verify sheet size and stock quality, and complete sign‑offs.
• Run quantities while performing regular quality inspections to identify defects.

Skills

Attention to detail

Ownership mindset

Independent work

Clear communication

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Tools

Roll Clamp Truck

Marquip Sheeting equipment

Machines operation knowledge

Lock Out/Tag Out

Job description

As a global marketing experience company, Quad’s goal is to help our clients win every day. We use our data-driven integrated marketing and manufacturing platform to streamline solutions for our clients, reduce friction and enhance their marketing spend effectiveness. We’ve built a rich legacy by believing in our people, allowing them to act like owners and to take charge of their own success. Whether an operator, sales rep, a graphic artist or a clinician, we’re all driven to perform at our best— for ourselves and our clients. At our core, we’re a company that believes we can always create a better way.

At Quad, we help our clients win every day by combining data, technology, marketing, and manufacturing to create smarter, more effective solutions. We’ve built our legacy by investing in our people, empowering them to act like owners, and giving them the opportunity to take charge of their success.

Whether you’re operating equipment, solving a production challenge, supporting a teammate, or finding a better way to get the job done, you’ll be part of a team that takes pride in delivering exceptional work.

We’re always looking for a better way—and we’re looking for people who are ready to help us find it.

The Opportunity

As a Machine Operator - Packaging, you’ll play a hands‑on role in turning rolls of paper stock into precisely sized sheets that keep production moving. Hours are Monday‑Wednesday (every other Thursday) 5 AM- 5 PM.

This is more than running a machine. You’ll own your setup, monitor quality, troubleshoot issues, maintain equipment, manage materials, and help your teammates build their skills. If you take pride in precision, enjoy working with machinery, and like being the person others can count on to get the job done right, this could be a great fit.

What You’ll Do

• Review the computer system to understand job priorities and confirm orders are accurate and complete.
• Determine optimal machine setup specifications and select and load the correct stock onto the roll stand.
• Follow Job Orders and established SOPs throughout the production process.
• Produce start‑up samples, verify sheet size, cuts, and stock quality, and complete required sign‑offs.
• Run required quantities while performing regular quality inspections to identify defects and ensure specifications are met.
• Stage completed work according to instructions and ensure paperwork and job materials are accurate, complete, and properly organized.
• Clear finished goods and make‑ready materials, containing or isolating materials as required by SOP.
• Return excess paper to stock, maintain a clean and organized work area, and route non‑conforming materials, overruns, and waste appropriately.
• Perform regular and preventative maintenance on cutting equipment.
• Accurately record production information on daily production sheets and boards.
• Consistently meet efficiency, quality, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence standards that support key industry certifications.
• Mentor and train team members, encourage teamwork, and cross‑train on additional equipment as assigned.
• Take on additional responsibilities as needed to help the team succeed.

Experience

• 1–2 years of experience as a Machine Operator preferred.
• Machine repair and maintenance experience required.
• Manufacturing experience in the packaging industry is preferred, but not required.
• Marquip Sheeting equipment preferred but will consider applicants with large‑format sheeting experience.

Skills That Set You Up for Success

You’re someone who combines mechanical know-how with attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership. Ideally, you bring:

• Ability to operate a Roll Clamp Truck.
• Knowledge of production and processing, including raw materials, quality control, waste, costs, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Familiarity with machines and tools, including their operation, design, repair, and maintenance.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
• Computer proficiency.
• Understanding of Lock Out/Tag Out procedures and production danger areas.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Ability to communicate information clearly in one‑on‑one and small‑group settings.
• Ability to understand and carry out written, verbal, and diagram‑based instructions.
• Supervisory experience is a plus.

Why Quad?

At Quad, you’ll have the opportunity to build your skills, take ownership of your work, and contribute to a team that values quality, safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

We offer comprehensive benefits for eligible employees, including medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement savings, paid time off, holidays, and additional benefits.

Bring your mechanical skills. Bring your eye for quality. Bring your drive to make things better. Let’s create a better way together.

Quad is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a place of belonging — a space where employees do not need to sacrifice who they are to exist and grow in our workplace. Quad does not discriminate on any unlawful basis including race, religion, color, national origin, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Quad also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories.

Drug‑Free Workplace