Operator III

Pregis LLC; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-On Bonus Up to $5,000

Job summary

Pregis LLC in Elgin, IL is seeking an Operator III to lead converting and finishing operations. You will supervise crews, set up and troubleshoot equipment, and ensure safety, quality, and productivity align with customer specifications and Pregis standards.

The role emphasizes mentoring teammates, driving continuous improvement, and maintaining strong workmanship in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Training and career growth opportunities are available.

Qualifications

• Requires a HS diploma or GED with 5+ years in manufacturing/printing/packaging preferred.
• Experience leading crews and directing safety, quality and production goals.
• Ability to set up and troubleshoot converting and finishing equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead production crews to meet safety, quality, and output targets.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot converting and finishing equipment.
• Interpret job tickets and verify materials and specs before starting.
• Maintain print quality and die-cut registration to meet standards.
• Monitor KPIs for productivity, waste, and quality.
• Train and mentor operators and team members as needed.
• Identify process improvements to reduce waste and downtime.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team-building

Mechanical troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Mentoring

Safety compliance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Flexographic printing

Converting equipment

Die-cutting equipment

Gluing systems

Printing plates setup

Job description

Job Title: Operator III

Classification: Hourly

Reports To: Shift Supervisor

Department: Mailer Production

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

Pay Range: $26.00 - $32.00 per hour

Sign-On Bonus: Up to $5,000

Summary of Job

Under the direction of the Department Supervisor, the Operator III serves as a lead operator responsible for operating advanced converting and finishing equipment while supporting production teams, maintaining quality standards, and achieving production goals. This position plays a critical role in ensuring products are produced safely, efficiently, and in accordance with customer specifications and Pregis standards for quality, productivity, and waste reduction.

The ideal candidate possesses strong technical and mechanical skills, leadership abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This role provides opportunities to mentor team members, develop advanced manufacturing expertise, and contribute to the overall success of the operation.

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.

Overview

The Operator III is responsible for the setup, operation, troubleshooting, and optimization of converting and finishing equipment. This position requires a thorough understanding of production processes, quality standards, and machine performance. The Operator III is expected to work independently, lead production crews, and provide technical guidance while driving productivity, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Demonstrate leadership and effectively direct production crews to achieve safety, quality, and production goals.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot converting and finishing equipment with minimal supervision.
• Read and interpret job tickets to ensure materials, specifications, and production requirements are verified before beginning production.
• Ensure all necessary components are available and resolve conflicting information before proceeding with a job.
• Maintain print quality and die‑cut registration standards to consistently meet customer and company requirements.
• Operate and adjust line ancillary equipment, including gluing systems, labeling equipment, die‑cutting units, and related converting equipment.
• Properly set up and adjust fan‑fold equipment to required specifications.
• Install Flexo plates and set print cylinders to maximize print quality and equipment performance.
• Perform minor mechanical repairs, machine adjustments, and troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
• Monitor and maintain productivity, waste, and quality KPIs while striving to meet or exceed established standards.
• Accurately complete production documentation, including quantities produced, material usage, labor reporting, and downtime tracking.
• Monitor line counts and production data to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Train and mentor operators and team members as required.
• Promote a culture of safety, quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency.
• Maintain housekeeping standards and ensure work areas remain clean, organized, and safe.
• Comply with all safety policies, PPE requirements, and company procedures.
• Communicate effectively with incoming and outgoing shifts to ensure smooth transitions and uninterrupted production.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• Strong leadership, communication, and team‑building skills.
• Advanced mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
• Experience operating converting, printing, finishing, or packaging equipment.
• Knowledge of Flexographic printing, die‑cutting, gluing, labeling, and finishing processes.
• Ability to analyze production issues and implement effective solutions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to train, coach, and mentor employees.
• Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Knowledge of manufacturing safety requirements and best practices.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Career Development

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

• Hands‑on technical and equipment training.
• Cross‑training opportunities across multiple production lines and equipment types.
• Leadership development opportunities.
• Mentorship and skill‑building programs.
• Career advancement opportunities within manufacturing and operations leadership.

Environment

• Exposure to moving mechanical equipment.
• Indoor manufacturing environment.
• 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.
• Occasional computer and keyboard use.

Position Type

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

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• 5+ years of manufacturing, converting, printing, packaging, or related production experience preferred.
• Experience operating Flexographic printing, converting, finishing, or similar production equipment preferred.
• Previous leadership, lead operator, or crew oversight experience preferred.
• Mechanical troubleshooting and equipment setup experience required.

Compensation

The listed hourly base pay range is estimated to be $26.00 - $32.00 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.

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