Operator I

Pregis-3; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus up to $2,500

Competitive pay

Benefits (medical, dental, vision)

Job summary

Pregis is seeking an experienced Converting Machine Operator to join our Arlington manufacturing team in Elgin, IL. This role operates and supports advanced converting and finishing equipment, with safety, quality, and productivity priorities.

Candidates with experience in printing, packaging, or related manufacturing; strong mechanical aptitude and team collaboration are preferred. The position offers a 2-2-3 rotating schedule, day or night shifts, and a sign-on bonus up to $2,500.

Qualifications

• Experience operating converting, printing, packaging, finishing, or manufacturing equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets and production specifications.

Responsibilities

• Operate converting and finishing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Document production data and material usage accurately.
• Monitor quality, waste, and KPIs; ensure on-time shift transitions.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Reading specs

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Communication

Detail oriented

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Title: Operator I

Location: Elgin, IL

Shifts Available:

• Day Shift | 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Night Shift | 6:00 PM- 6:00 AM

Schedule: 2-2-3 Rotating Schedule

Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour, based on experience

Sign-On Bonus: Up to $2,500

Join Pregis and Grow Your Career

Pregis is seeking an experienced Converting Machine Operator to join our Arlington manufacturing team. This position is responsible for operating and supporting advanced converting and finishing equipment while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

We are especially interested in candidates with experience in printing, direct mail, packaging, converting, flexographic printing, finishing operations, or related manufacturing environments.

At Pregis, we invest in our employees through hands‑on training, skill development programs, and career advancement opportunities. Many of our operators have grown into technical, maintenance, and leadership roles throughout the organization.

What You'll Do

As a Converting Machine Operator, you will play a critical role in maintaining efficient production operations while ensuring products meet customer specifications and quality expectations.

Production Operations

• Operate converting and finishing equipment safely and efficiently
• Maintain production consumables during machine run times, including adhesives, labels, and paper materials
• Review job tickets and production specifications prior to beginning production runs
• Verify all materials and components are available before production starts
• Monitor machine performance, product quality, and production output
• Maintain productivity, waste, and quality KPIs established by the company
• Accurately document production data, material consumption, and job information
• Ensure smooth shift transitions through effective communication and documentation

Equipment Setup & Operation

• Set up and operate inline equipment including:
  • Label applicators
  • Hot melt adhesive systems
  • Gluing systems
  • Die-cutting units
  • Flexographic printing equipment
  • Ancillary converting equipment
• Install and position flexographic printing plates
• Set flexographic print cylinders for optimal print quality and equipment performance
• Assist with fan-fold unit setups and production adjustments
• Monitor print registration and die-cut quality throughout production runs
• Perform routine machine adjustments and equipment inspections

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

• Identify machine and production issues and implement corrective actions
• Perform minor mechanical repairs and equipment adjustments
• Support process improvements designed to reduce waste and increase efficiency
• Assist in training and supporting fellow team members
• Recommend workflow and equipment improvements
• Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the department

Quality & Safety

• Ensure products meet customer specifications and company quality standards
• Follow all standard operating procedures and quality requirements
• Maintain accurate production counts and reporting
• Follow all company safety policies and PPE requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Support departmental housekeeping and 5S initiatives
• Promote a strong safety-first culture

What We're Looking For

• Experience operating converting, printing, packaging, finishing, or manufacturing equipment
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets and production specifications
• Experience working with adhesives, labels, and production consumables
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent communication skills during shift transitions
• Commitment to safety, reliability, and continuous improvement
• Ability to perform in a fast‑paced production environment

Preferred Experience

Candidates with experience in any of the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply:

• Flexographic printing
• Direct mail production
• Packaging manufacturing
• Converting operations
• Die cutting
• Label application systems
• Hot melt adhesive systems
• Print registration
• Machine setups and changeovers
• Production line troubleshooting
• Web handling systems
• Manufacturing environments focused on KPI performance

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and stooping
• Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work around moving machinery and production equipment
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts
• Occasional computer and keyboard use

Work Environment

• Manufacturing production facility
• Exposure to moving machinery and equipment
• Indoor work environment
• Temperatures may exceed 90°F
• Humidity levels may exceed 80%
• Noise levels may exceed 85 dB
• Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required
• 5-7 years of manufacturing, converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, or related production experience preferred
• Experience operating and troubleshooting production equipment preferred
• Mechanical maintenance and machine setup experience highly desirable

Why Join Pregis?

• Up to $2,500 sign-on bonus
• Competitive pay
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Paid training and development opportunities
• Career advancement pathways
• Stable and growing manufacturing environment
• Safety-focused culture
• Opportunity to develop advanced technical and machine operation skills

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