Operator II

Pregis LLC.; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Pregis LLC. is seeking a Bindery Operator II to operate and maintain bindery equipment, ensuring quality finishes on printed materials while meeting cost targets.

You will troubleshoot mechanical issues, perform scheduled maintenance, and work under the Production Supervisor to maximize quality and efficiency in a fast-paced, team-driven setting.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, teamwork-oriented environment.
• Follow standard operating procedures and safety guidelines.
• Interpret job specifications and set up machines accordingly.
• Troubleshoot and resolve common machine issues.

Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust and operate binding equipment including cutting heads and folders.
• May operate automatic bindery machines with multiple functions.
• Produce complete bindery and finishing units for final products.
• Inspect equipment for safety and maintain counts on every job.
• Direct crew through production and monitor quality, output and productivity.
• Perform cleaning per procedures and maintain a safe work environment.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Safety awareness

Adaptability

Mechanical aptitude

Education

HS/GED

Experience in Bindery/Cutter Operator

Tools

Mbo folder

Vacuum table converting

Binding machines

Job description

Job Title: Operator II – Bindery

Classification: Hourly

Reports To: Production Supervisor

Summary of Job

The Bindery Operator's job involves operating and maintaining machinery to bind, fold, and finish printed materials. They are responsible for cutting, folding, binding, and trimming to produce finished products. The role also includes tasks like troubleshooting mechanical issues, performing scheduled maintenance, and maintaining operational efficiency.

This position requires the ideal candidates to have strong communication skills, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, teamwork-oriented environment. Under the direction of the Production Supervisor and/or Operations Manager, the Bindery Operator ensures the highest quality products at the lowest possible cost, while meeting company standards for quality and performance, customer specifications and delivery requirements, in accordance with Pregis policies and procedures.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust and operate a variety of auxiliary binding machines containing several cutting heads, control surfaces or other attachments i.e. inkjet and mailing devices, case making & decorating equipment, folders, cutters, collators, stitchers, drills, binding/gluing machines.
• May set up automatic bindery machines containing multiple functions and station capabilities (power paper cutters, power collators and gatherers, power folders, power speed binder) which can be electromechanically combined with other equipment and devices.
• To produce a complete bindery and finishing unit that processes printed sheets into final books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines or other completed products.
• Inspect equipment for safety issues/reasons.
• May operate automatic adhesive binding machines (perfect Binders) that contain numerous interrelated process stations that are fed collated sheets or signatures and perform such functions as vibrating, milling, roughening, gluing, covering and delivering or stacking completed books, magazines or catalogs.
• Make needed adjustments to coordinate the multiple workstations on a single machine.
• Direct crew through all aspects of production. monitor quality, output and productivity.
• Performs cleaning as required according to Pregis Standard Operating Procedure 1.01 and as directed.
• Fully understands and maintains accurate counts on every job.
• Maintains a safe work environment.

Competency(Knowledge, skills, and abilities)

• Experience with mbo folder and vacuum table converting a plus.
• Ability to take coaching well and communicate respectfully with others.
• Promote positive teamwork culture.
• Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate with team and during shift transition.
• Knowledgeable of safety requirements and guidelines in manufacturing/warehouse environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, follow standardized work instructions and adhere to safe work practices in a continuous improvement culture.
• Exposure to moving equipment.
• Humidity may exceed 80%
• Personal Protective Equipment required.

Physical Characteristics

• Frequent standing, stooping
• Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling (up to 50 lbs.)
• Occasional typing/keyboarding

Position Type

• Full time
• 223 rotating 12-hour shifts
• Overtime required per business demand.

Education and Experience

• HS/GED and proven experience as a Bindery/Cutter Operator or similar role.
• In-depth knowledge of operating cutting and binding equipment.
• Mbo folder and vacuum table converting
• Proficient in interpreting job specifications and setting up machines accordingly.
• Strong attention to details and ability to maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve common machines issues.
• Good physical stamina, as the role may involve lifting heavy materials and standing for extended periods. A team player with good communication and collaboration abilities.
• Being self‑motivated

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.