Folder/Cutter Operator

Salary: $22-$25/hour

SUMMARY:

The Folder/Cutter Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining cutting equipment. This includes ensuring precise and accurate cuts on various printed materials and cutting printed material for final delivery or additional bindery operations. This position cuts unprinted stock for press as well as any additional cutting, as required. Additionally, this position is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining folding machines to produce high-quality folded printed materials and performs the final binding, stitiching, or delivery. 

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBITIES:

• Set up, calibrate, and operate machinery such as guillotine cutters, programmable cutters, digital cutting systems, and folding machines according to customer requirements.
• Align daily work from provided production schedule.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on machines to ensure optimal performance.
• Alert production lead with questions/problems.
• Print load tags.
• Review job tickets and specifications to determine appropriate cutting methods, dimensions, and materials.
• Monitor production output to ensure accuracy, quality, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with operators to produce quality products, coordinate workflow, and prioritize jobs.
• Communication with lead about any discrepancies.
• Work with folder or saddle-stitcher operators on set-up for bleeds, trims, etc.
• Inspect finished materials for quality and accuracy, checking for any defects or errors.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 1 year experience with commercial bindery in running a cutter or folder.
• Knowledge of saddle stitching, perfect binding, and other bindery functions.
• Ability to read and understand job tickets and other written instructions.
• 2 weeks of direct training with a department manager or qualified operator.
• Continued checking of every job worked on for a minimum of 2 weeks, until declared qualified by the bindery manager.

 

RECOMMENDED / PREFERRED:

• Knowledge of different materials used in printing and their specific cutting requirements.
• Understanding of ISO 9001 standards and quality control procedures.
• Proficiency in using computerized cutting software and systems.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift at least 40 pounds, repeatedly.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and perform repetitive tasks.
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.