Die Cutter Operator

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and quality-focused Die Cutter Operator to join our production team. In this role, you will set up, operate, and maintain die-cutting machinery to cut, crease, score, perforate, and emboss printed sheets into high-quality folding cartons, labels, pocket folders, displays, and custom packaging.

The ideal candidate takes ownership of their machinery, proactively troubleshoots issues to prevent downtime, collaborates smoothly with press, bindery, and shipping departments, and maintains a safe, organized workspace.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

• Review job tickets, dielines, proofs, and work orders to establish proper machine setups and production processes.
• Set up and operate die-cutting equipment (including MK Heidelberg 40-inch press with blanker) by mounting dies, adjusting pressure and make-ready, and installing cutting, creasing, and stripping tools.
• Run test sheets and inspect initial pieces against proofs to ensure registration, cuts, and scores meet strict tolerance standards.
• Monitor live production runs, adjusting speed and machine settings to maintain consistent output quality.

Quality Control & Tooling Management

• Perform ongoing product quality checks for nicks, paper cracking, misregistration, or incomplete cuts, recording inspection findings on job tickets.
• Carefully handle, store, and track cutting dies and tooling to prevent damage; identify and report worn cutting rules or rubber requiring replacement.
• Strip, blank, and separate finished pieces (or coordinate with dedicated stripping staff); stack, count, and label completed work for downstream departments.

Maintenance, Safety & Teamwork

• Troubleshoot mechanical issues, perform minor repairs, and report complex machinery malfunctions to supervisors or maintenance teams.
• Complete routine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance to maximize equipment longevity and performance.
• Safely load and unload materials (pallets, skids) using pallet jacks and approved material-handling tools.
• Follow strict safety protocols—including lockout/tagout (LOTO), machine guarding, and proper use of PPE—while keeping the work area hazard-free.
• Log accurate production metrics (run counts, make-ready duration, downtime, waste) and report progress to supervisors.
• Assist in training team helpers and peer operators, performing other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• 1–3 years of die-cutting or related print-finishing experience (or equivalent combination of training and experience).
• Ability to work four 10-hour shifts each week, with flexibility to work overtime as production demands require.
• Strong working math skills (fractions, decimals) and experience using precision tools like rulers, calipers, and gauges.
• Ability to accurately read and interpret job tickets, dielines, and production paperwork.

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience setting up and operating an MK Heidelberg 40-inch press with blanker.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential physical functions.

• Standing & Walking: Ability to stand and walk on the shop floor for full shifts, typically 10 hours per day.
• Lifting & Moving: Regularly lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 50 lbs; move heavier loads using material-handling equipment (e.g., pallet jacks) or team lifts.
• Movement & Dexterity: Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand/arm motion. Manual dexterity required to handle sharp steel rule dies and make fine mechanical adjustments with hand tools.
• Visual Acuity: Close vision, depth perception, and full color distinction needed to inspect printed sheets, registration, and finished die-cut pieces.

Why You'll Like Working Here

• Stability with Momentum: Join a stable, growing industry leader with over 80 years of operational excellence.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance options, HSA, and Telemedicine services.
• Financial Protection: Company-provided Group Life Insurance, plus voluntary Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Supplemental Life, Hospital Indemnity, Accident, and Critical Illness coverage.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company match to help secure your financial future.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid company holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free 24/7 support including crisis intervention, individual, marital, and family counseling, financial guidance, senior care support, and educational workshops.