Die Cutter Operator
General Purpose
Responsible for performing manual and machine tasks related to the setup, maintenance, and operation of die-cutting equipment to produce products that meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production requirements.
Essential Job Functions
• Demonstrate general knowledge and understanding of die-cutting processes and equipment
• Read job tickets to determine setup specifications and operating instructions
• Monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions and determine necessary adjustments
• Follow all applicable standard operating procedures for the job, position, and department
• Perform routine adjustments during press runs to maintain consistent production
• Complete assigned work accurately and on schedule
• Follow instructions precisely
• Maintain daily production records using required forms
• Record production data, including time spent on specific tasks
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Open machines and remove or replace damaged product using hand tools
• Train team members on machine setup, operation, and safe use
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance and troubleshooting
• Perform make-ready procedures
• Collaborate with team members across departments to maximize production efficiency
• Follow established department policies, procedures, work instructions, and safety and environmental guidelines
• Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
• Knowledge of Bobst die-cutting equipment preferred
• Minimum of two years’ experience running board stock and paper on flatbed die cutters
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance manuals, and procedural documents
• Basic computer skills, including data entry
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Ability to maintain reliable attendance
• Ability to pass color vision and color hue tests
• Ability to meet or pass mechanical aptitude testing or demonstrate mechanical aptitude through prior experience
• Ability to use pre-make-ready tables
• Ability to use measuring and inspection tools, including rulers, calipers, and micrometers
• Knowledge of size and location requirements for the nicking process
• Ability to identify common packaging defects, including cracking, sharpness, heavy scoring, misalignment, tearing, light cutting, loose fibers, and pressure marks
• Ability to create spotting sheets and stripping boards
• Knowledge of rubber and cork selection and application
• Knowledge of reknifing tools and techniques, including benders, bridgers, miters, and cutters
• Knowledge of tonnage adjustment during cutting operations
• Knowledge of underlay use and spotting techniques
• Knowledge of cube and manual tonnage operation
• Knowledge of 1mm counter plates and use of register pins
• Ability to repair dies by modifying creasing rules and cutting knives
• Knowledge of blind make-readies and associated processes
• Knowledge of counter plates, matrix, spotting tape, and underlaying techniques
• Willingness to work overtime as needed; significant overtime may be required during peak periods
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation
Safe Work Requirements
• Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, safety shoes, gloves, hard hats, and task-specific PPE
• Comply with Smurfit WestRock employment policies, handbook, and workplace safety rules and procedures
• Submit safety concerns, safety work orders, and incident reports as required
• Follow site leadership direction as part of the Safety Excellence System
• Complete all required training through the Learning and Development system
• Understand and follow the STOP Work Process, including the right to stop work to ensure safety
Physical Demands
• Ability to meet physical demands necessary to perform essential job functions
• Reasonable accommodation
made for qualified individuals with disabilities
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.