Die Cutter Operator - Cartons 1st Shift Itasca ^

Job Description

Job Description

This job is posted on behalf of Talent Guide USA by Top Echelon.

1st Shift Die Cutter Operator / Lead Operator – Folding Cartons

$28–$40+ per hour | Overtime | Excellent Benefits | Paid Training | Relocation Assistance

A growing folding carton manufacturer is expanding its operations in the area and adding experienced Die Cutter Operators, Lead Operators, and Supervisor-level talent to its 1st shift team .

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Die Cutter Operator—or a strong Assistant Operator ready to move up—to join a progressive, technology-driven company investing in modern equipment, automation, employee training, and continued expansion.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• $28–$40+ per hour , depending on experience
• Overtime opportunities
• 1st shift
• Outstanding company benefits
• Paid technical training
• Regular performance and compensation reviews
• Advancement opportunities for strong performers
• Opportunities to move into Lead and Supervisor positions
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• Modern, highly automated converting equipment
• Stable company with low employee turnover
• Strong team-oriented culture
• Company trains, develops, and promotes from within

The Position

Reporting to the Production Manager, the Die Cutter Operator will set up and operate high-speed die-cutting equipment used to manufacture printed folding cartons and paperboard packaging .

The operation utilizes modern converting technology and is looking for people who understand how to produce quality cartons while maintaining strong productivity, accuracy, and safety.

Responsibilities include:

• Setting up and operating high-speed flatbed die cutters
• Completing machine setups, changeovers, and make-readies
• Installing and setting cutting dies and tooling
• Setting stripping and blanking sections
• Adjusting feeders, registration, pressure, and delivery systems
• Producing folding cartons to customer specifications
• Performing cutting, creasing, scoring, perforating, stripping, and blanking
• Monitoring registration and cut/crease quality throughout production
• Troubleshooting machine, tooling, and material issues
• Minimizing waste and downtime while maintaining production speeds
• Inspecting finished work for quality
• Performing routine preventative maintenance
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Working closely with Press, Folder Gluer, Quality, and Production teams

Experience We're Looking For

Candidates should have 1–2+ years of die-cutting experience , preferably within folding cartons, paperboard packaging, or a similar converting operation .

Experience with equipment such as:

Bobst Expertcut | Bobst Novacut | Bobst Visioncut | Heidelberg Dymatrix | Koenig & Bauer/Iberica | Brausse | Young Shin | Similar Flatbed Die Cutters

Bobst Expertcut experience is especially attractive , but you do not need experience on the company's exact machine.

If you understand die cutter setups, cutting dies, creasing, stripping, blanking, registration, paperboard substrates, quality control, and basic machine troubleshooting , the company is willing to train you on its specific equipment and processes.

Ready to Move Up?

Experienced Die Cutter Assistants are encouraged to apply. If you've been assisting with setups and production and are ready to become a primary operator, this company offers the paid training and advancement opportunities to help you get there.

The company is also interested in experienced Lead Die Cutter Operators, Converting Leads, and Production/Finishing Supervisors who may be ready for their next opportunity.

The company is expanding, and that growth is creating opportunities for people who want more than another machine operator position. Strong performers can advance into Lead, Supervisor, and other production leadership roles as the operation continues to grow.

If you're an experienced die-cutting professional looking for better pay, modern Bobst-style technology, excellent benefits, paid training, and a company where you can continue to advance, we'd like to hear from you.