Folder/Gluer Operator

Position Overview

We are looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Folder/Gluer Operator to take ownership of our finishing operations. In this role, you will set up, run, and maintain folder/gluer machinery to transform die-cut blanks into premium packaging products including folding cartons, boxes, sleeves, and pocket folders.

The ideal candidate takes pride in equipment ownership, spots potential issues before they cause downtime, collaborates seamlessly with die-cutting, quality control, and shipping teams, and prioritizes a safe, clean shop floor.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

• Review job tickets, samples, structural specifications, and work orders to establish proper machine setups and production processes.
• Set up and operate folder/gluer equipment (including Bobst ExpertFold) by adjusting feeders, pre-breakers, folding belts, rails, and compression sections.
• Configure and calibrate glue systems (wheel, extrusion, hot-melt, and cold-melt); closely monitor glue patterns, volume, placement, and handle glue supply changeovers.
• Run test pieces and inspect initial finished samples for squareness, fold accuracy, glue bond, gaps, and fish-tailing before full production runs.
• Monitor live runs to make adjustments as needed, maintaining speed, product quality, and consistent output.

Quality Control & Troubleshooting

• Perform ongoing and post-production quality checks (glue bond testing, squareness, and count accuracy) and record inspection data on job tickets.
• Monitor inline quality control tools, including glue detectors, code readers, cameras, and tape applicators.
• Identify and troubleshoot production disruptions (jams, skewing, poor adhesion, misfeeds); make minor mechanical adjustments and escalate larger issues to supervisors or maintenance.

Maintenance, Safety & Team Support

• Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance, ensuring glue systems and machines remain in top operating condition.
• Maintain strict adherence to all safety protocols, including lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Load and unload materials (pallets, skids) using pallet jacks and approved material-handling tools.
• Pack finished products to customer specs (case counts, labeling, palletizing) and guide delivery-end packers.
• Track and log production data (run counts, make-ready time, downtime, waste) and report progress to leadership.
• Assist in training feeder/packers and peer operators, and perform other shop duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• 1–3 years of folder/gluer or related print-finishing machinery experience (or equivalent combination of formal training and experience).
• Strong working math skills (fractions, decimals) and experience using rulers, calipers, and precision measurement gauges.
• Ability to interpret job tickets, structural CAD/drawings, and production paperwork.
• Flexibility to work overtime and adjusting shifts as production demands dictate.

Preferred:

• Direct experience setting up and operating Bobst ExpertFold equipment.

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 for full 8 to 10-hour shifts.
• Lifting: Regularly lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs (heavier loads using team lifts or equipment).
• Movement: Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand/arm motions.
• Vision & Dexterity: Close vision, depth perception, and color distinction to inspect fine details; manual dexterity to handle sharp steel rule dies and fine hand tools.

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.