Die Cutter Operator

AWT is a leading manufacturer of custom labels, flexible packaging, and precision converting solutions servicing Healthcare, Consumer Brand, and Technology clients worldwide. AWT employs nearly 650 associates and operates facilities in Minneapolis, MN (Headquarters), South Elgin, IL, Hauppauge, NY, Grand Blanc, MI, Anaheim, CA, Ottawa and Toronto, Canada, Winston-Salem and Garner, NC. AWT is the trusted partner for leading brands, delivering comprehensive, innovative, and sustainable solutions with exceptional quality, expertise, and responsiveness. More information about AWT can be found at www.awtlabelpack.com

AWT offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, HSA, 401k with match, holidays and paid time off.

AWT has the following position open in our South Elgin, IL location:

The schedule for this position is M - F, Hours are 6am - 2:30pm. Additional days and hours may be necessary due to production requirements.

The Die Cutter Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of rotary die cutting equipment used in the production of flexible packaging materials. The operator ensures products meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production schedules while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

Primary Tasks and Responsibilities (Occupies approximately 80% of time)

• Set up, operate, and monitor die cutting equipment according to job specifications.

• Review and verify job tickets, key measurements and special instructions before beginning production.

• Install and adjust dies, anvils, tooling, and related components to ensure proper machine performance.

• Perform accurate setup and changeovers to minimize downtime and maximize production efficiency.

• Inspect finished product throughout the production run to ensure compliance with customer specifications and quality standards.

• Monitor material usage to minimize waste and maximize productivity.

• Verify quantities, roll configurations, labels per roll, and other customer-specific requirements.

• Complete all production paperwork and documentation accurately and in a timely manner.

• Perform routine machine maintenance and cleaning according to established procedures.

• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and material issues and make appropriate adjustments.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with company safety policies.

• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and SQF (Safe Quality Foods) requirements as trained.

• Communicate production concerns, equipment issues, and quality observations to supervisor and team members.

Secondary Tasks and Responsibilities (Occupies balance of time)

• Assist with training new operators and cross-training team members.

• Support quality improvement and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Work collaboratively with Press Operators, Quality personnel, and Maintenance Technicians to resolve production issues.

• Assist with equipment validation, testing, and process improvement projects as assigned.

• Participate in inventory counts and material management activities.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Job Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds without restrictions.

• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive motions.

• Ability to safely operate powered industrial equipment as required.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery and varying noise levels.

Skills and Abilities Required

• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.

• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, specifications, and production documentation.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality products.

• Basic mathematical skills, including measurements, conversions, and quantity verification.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.

• Ability to identify defects and perform visual quality inspections.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a team environment.

• Dependable, reliable, and committed to meeting production schedules.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and production requirements.

• Basic computer skills for machine operation, data entry, and production reporting.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience operating rotary die cutting, flexographic finishing, or converting equipment.

• Experience within the label, packaging, printing, or converting industry.

• Knowledge of quality systems.

• Forklift certification or ability to become certified.

Education and Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent GED required.

• Vocational or technical training in manufacturing, printing, or mechanical fields preferred.

• Minimum three to five years of experience operating manufacturing, converting, finishing, printing, or die cutting equipment preferred.

Method to Measure Performance

Employees are evaluated after the training and orientation period (typically 90 days), again at six months and one year, and annually thereafter. Performance is measured based on:

• Safety compliance

• Product quality

• Setup and changeover efficiency

• Production output and productivity

• Waste reduction and material utilization

• Attendance and reliability

• Teamwork and communication

• Adherence to company policies and procedures

AWT is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we encourage all qualified and interested persons to apply for available positions by submitting an application or resume for consideration. AWT will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability/handicap status, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, or any other basis protected by federal, state and local laws. It is AWT's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

Please note these job descriptions are not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.