Pressroom Feeder Operator

Smurfit-Westrock; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Training & development

Career growth

Safety culture

Global company

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Press Feeder to operate the mechanical sheet feeder and support press operations, ensuring production efficiency, product quality, and compliance with safety standards.

The role requires basic math, reading ability for safety and procedures, and mechanical aptitude, with on-the-job training and opportunities to grow within a global packaging leader.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance manuals, and procedure documents.
• Ability to pass a basic reading assessment.
• Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
• Mechanical aptitude demonstrated through prior experience or an assessment.
• Ability to pass color vision and color hue tests.
• Ability to obtain a forklift license.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate the mechanical press feeder to support production requirements.
• Review job tickets and select the correct paper type and quantity for each job.
• Load and unload paper and inspect materials for defects or damage.
• Obtain ink, fill ink fountains, and maintain proper ink levels throughout production runs.
• Mix fountain solutions, set up dampening systems, and monitor pH balance and conductivity levels.
• Assist the Press Operator with mounting plates, blankets, and packing materials.
• Move printed and unprinted stock as needed throughout the production process.
• Perform routine adjustments during press runs to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Complete required ISO documentation and quality checks accurately and on time.
• Mark printed sheets for coating knockouts and verify sheets against mylar specifications.
• Maintain housekeeping standards, including cleaning equipment, removing waste, and keeping supplies stocked.
• Follow all federal, state, local, and company safety regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Basic math

Attention to detail

Reliability/attendance

Reading safety rules

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift license

Job description

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.

The Opportunity

This role is responsible for operating the mechanical sheet feeder and supporting press operations to ensure efficient production, product quality, and equipment performance. The Press Feeder works closely with the Press Operator to assist with press setup, material handling, maintenance activities, and quality inspections while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate the mechanical press feeder to support production requirements.
• Review job tickets and select the correct paper type and quantity for each job.
• Load and unload paper and inspect materials for defects or damage.
• Obtain ink, fill ink fountains, and maintain proper ink levels throughout production runs.
• Mix fountain solutions, set up dampening systems, and monitor pH balance and conductivity levels.
• Assist the Press Operator with mounting plates, blankets, and packing materials.
• Move printed and unprinted stock as needed throughout the production process.
• Perform routine adjustments during press runs to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Complete required ISO documentation and quality checks accurately and on time.
• Mark printed sheets for coating knockouts and verify sheets against mylar specifications.
• Maintain housekeeping standards, including cleaning equipment, removing waste, and keeping supplies stocked.
• Follow all federal, state, local, and company safety regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You Need to Succeed

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance manuals, and procedure documents.
• Ability to pass a basic reading assessment.
• Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Mechanical aptitude demonstrated through previous experience or the ability to pass a mechanical assessment.
• Ability to pass color vision and color hue tests.
• Ability to obtain a forklift license.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

What We Offer

• A workplace culture built on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training with opportunities to develop technical skills and advance your career.
• Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and performance.
• A career with a global packaging leader where Safety, Sustainability, and Inclusion are foundational to daily operations.
• Opportunities for growth within manufacturing and production operations.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.