Operator II

Pregis; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Pregis is hiring a Bindery Operator II for the night shift (6:00 PM - 6:00 AM, rotating 2-2-3) in Elgin, IL. The role involves setting up, operating, and maintaining bindery and finishing equipment to produce high-quality printed products according to customer specifications and schedules.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, detailed focus, and the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Training and career advancement opportunities are offered by Pregis.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust, operate, and monitor bindery and finishing equipment.
• Meet production, quality, and productivity goals.
• Perform machine setups, changeovers, and adjustments to support production schedules.
• Produce finished products such as books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines, and other printed materials.
• Lead and support production crews through daily operations.
• Maintain accurate production records and documentation.
• Inspect equipment and work areas for safe operation and safety compliance.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues to minimize downtime.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Bindery equipment experience

Attention to detail

Leadership in production

Read production specs

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Folders

Cutters

Collators

Stitchers

Binding equipment

Inkjet systems

Mailing equipment

Job description

We're Not Just in the Packaging Business–We're in the 'Wow' Business

Pregis is Hiring!

Why Join Pregis?

Pregis is in the packaging business to protect what matters. We are committed to providing our customers and employees sustainable growth through purpose-driven innovation and customer-centric packaging solutions. If you are looking for a company that is thriving across various high growth industries and is innovative, customer focused, high integrity, believes in strong teamwork and collaboration, Pregis is the company for you. Check out the Pregis Purpose to learn how sustainability and social responsibility is at the very core of our company DNA.

Job Title: Bindery Operator II

Classification: Hourly

Reports To: Production Supervisor

Department: Mailer Production

Night Shift: 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM (Rotating 2-2-3 Schedule)

Pay Range: $24.00 - $27.00 per hour

Summary of Job

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor and/or Operations Manager, the Bindery Operator II is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining bindery and finishing equipment to produce high-quality printed products while meeting customer specifications, production schedules, and company performance standards.

This position plays a key role in the finishing process, transforming printed materials into completed products such as books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines, and mail pieces. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Pregis is committed to employee development through hands-on training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities. Team members are encouraged to expand their technical skills through cross-training and development programs designed to support growth within manufacturing operations.

Essential Functions And Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust, operate, and monitor a variety of bindery and finishing equipment, including folders, cutters, collators, stitchers, drills, binding and gluing machines, inkjet systems, and mailing equipment.
• Operate equipment safely and efficiently while meeting production, quality, and productivity goals.
• Perform machine setups, changeovers, and adjustments to support production schedules and customer requirements.
• Operate automated bindery equipment consisting of multiple functions and workstations, including paper cutters, collators, gatherers, folders, and binding equipment.
• Produce finished products such as books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines, and other printed materials.
• Inspect equipment and work areas to ensure safe operation and compliance with company safety standards.
• Monitor product quality throughout the production process and make necessary adjustments to maintain specifications.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and operational issues to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.
• Operate adhesive binding equipment, including perfect binders, and monitor associated processes such as gluing, covering, stacking, and finishing operations.
• Coordinate multiple machine stations and functions to ensure efficient workflow and product quality.
• Maintain accurate production records, counts, and documentation.
• Monitor quality, productivity, and output throughout production runs.
• Lead and support production crews through daily operations while promoting teamwork and communication.
• Perform routine cleaning and housekeeping activities in accordance with Pregis standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and waste reduction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities)

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience operating bindery, finishing, printing, mailing, or manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret production instructions and job specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lead and support production crew activities.
• Knowledge of manufacturing safety practices and procedures.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining productivity and quality standards.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Career Development

Pregis invests in employee growth and development through structured training and advancement opportunities.

• Hands-on equipment and technical skills training.
• Cross-training opportunities across manufacturing operations.
• Mentorship and development programs.
• Opportunities to advance into higher-level operational and leadership roles.
• Continuous learning in a safety-focused manufacturing environment.

Environment

• Indoor manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to moving mechanical equipment.
• Heat may exceed 90°F.
• Humidity may exceed 80%.
• Noise levels may exceed 85 dB.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and stooping.
• Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling of materials up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work on feet for extended periods.
• Ability to safely work around moving equipment and machinery.
• Occasional computer and keyboard use.

Position Type

• Full-Time
• Night Shift: 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM
• Rotating 2-2-3 Schedule
• Overtime required based on business needs

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred.
• Previous bindery, printing, finishing, mailing, packaging, or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience operating bindery equipment such as folders, stitchers, cutters, collators, drills, or binding equipment preferred.
• Mechanical troubleshooting and machine setup experience preferred.
• Experience leading or coordinating production activities is a plus.

Compensation

The listed hourly base pay range is estimated to be $24.00 - $27.00 per hour. Actual pay may vary based on experience, skills, qualifications, performance, and demonstrated competencies. Base pay is one component of Pregis's total compensation package.

Compensation details listed in U.S. job postings reflect base pay only and do not include benefits. Learn more about Benefits at Pregis.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion

We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis’ culture and achievements.

Visit us at www.pregis.com for more information about Pregis LLC.