Senior Operator

pregisElgin, IL9 days ago

Occupations

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders Printing Press Operators

Industries

Commercial Printing (except Screen and Books)Support Activities for Printing All Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing

Senior Operator Pregis is seeking an experienced Senior Operator to join our manufacturing team in Elgin, IL. This role is ideal for skilled machine operators with experience in converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, finishing, or related manufacturing environments who are ready to take on a leadership role. As a Senior Operator, you will lead production crews, operate advanced converting and finishing equipment, troubleshoot production issues, maintain quality standards, and help drive productivity across the operation. This position plays a critical role in ensuring customer orders are produced safely, efficiently, and to specification. At Pregis, we invest in employee development through structured training programs, technical skill development, and advancement opportunities. Many of our operators have grown into maintenance, supervisory, technical, and leadership positions throughout the organization.

What You'll Do:

Production Leadership
Lead and support production crews to achieve safety, quality, and productivity goals
Provide direction and guidance during production runs
Promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
Assist with training and development of operators and support team members
Ensure smooth communication and shift transitions between crews
Machine Operation & Setup
Operate converting, printing, finishing, and ancillary production equipment
Review job tickets and production specifications before beginning production runs
Verify all materials and job components are available prior to startup
Set up and operate inline equipment with minimal supervision
Perform machine adjustments, changeovers, and production setups
Operate gluing systems, labeling equipment, Straub applicators, rotary cutters, and related equipment
Install and position cylinders and plates as required
Monitor print quality, registration, and production output
Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement
Identify production issues and implement corrective actions
Perform minor mechanical adjustments and repairs
Troubleshoot line performance and equipment challenges
Continuously seek opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency
Support process improvement and operational excellence initiatives
Help establish best practices throughout the department
Quality & Production Performance
Ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards
Monitor production, waste, and productivity metrics
Accurately record production quantities, materials, downtime, and job information
Maintain accurate line counts and production reporting
Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Maintain departmental quality and performance expectations
Safety & Housekeeping
Follow all company safety procedures and PPE requirements
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
Support departmental housekeeping standards
Ensure compliance with all workplace policies and safety requirements
Promote a strong safety-first culture

What We're Looking For:

Strong leadership and production floor experience
Ability to lead crews and support efficient machine operations
Advanced machine setup, troubleshooting, and operating skills
Strong mechanical aptitude
Ability to read and interpret job tickets and production specifications
Experience maintaining productivity, waste, and quality standards
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
Preferred Experience
Candidates with experience in any of the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply:
Converting operations
Packaging manufacturing
Direct mail production
Printing operations
Flexographic printing
Inline finishing equipment
Rotary cutting systems
Gluing systems
Labeling equipment
Web handling systems
Production changeovers and setups
Mechanical troubleshooting
Manufacturing team leadership
Production KPI management

Physical Requirements:

Frequent standing, walking, and stooping
Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds
Ability to work 12-hour shifts
Ability to work around moving production equipment
Occasional computer and keyboard use
Work Environment
Manufacturing production facility
Exposure to moving machinery and equipment
Indoor work environment
Temperatures may exceed 90FHumidity levels may exceed 80%Noise levels may exceed 85 dBRequired use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Education & Experience: High School Diploma or GED required 5-7 years of converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, manufacturing, or related production experience preferredExperience operating inline finishing and converting equipment preferredExperience with machine setup, troubleshooting, and production leadership preferred Mechanical repair and adjustment experience highly desirable Why Join Pregis? Up to $2,500 sign-on bonus Competitive pay Medical, dental, and vision benefits 401(k) with company match Paid time off and holidays Paid training and development opportunities Career advancement pathways Stable and growing manufacturing environment Safety-focused culture Opportunity to develop advanced technical and leadership skills Diversity and InclusionWe believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome. Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/InclusionWe offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis' culture and achievements.

Apply now

Level

SeniorL5

Location

Elgin, IL

Occupation

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

Industry

Commercial Printing (except Screen and Books)

Posted

9 days ago

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