Machine Operator - Bindery Operator

Bindery Supervisor

Phoenix Color® is a premier full-service, full-color printer with over 40 years of superior print experience. Drawing on a broad spectrum of materials and decorative technologies, Phoenix Color® produces memorable, value-added components, heavily-illustrated books and specialty commercial products.

Phoenix Color® has been servicing the publishing industry within the United States since 1979 and has formed lasting relationships with some of the biggest names in book publishing.

As a domestic manufacturer, we offer extensive, in-house digital pre-press capabilities and our technologically advanced UV printing platform supports an array of printing and finishing options. Our innovative special effects include foil stamping, UV embellishments and laminations, as well as our trademarked products LithoFoil®, MetalTone™, Look of Leather™ and VibraColor™.

Phoenix Color's® progressive innovation and commitment to quality will give your product the optimum eye-catching edge required in today's competitive marketplace.

You will oversee the complete finishing process—including folding, gathering, binding, and trimming for both premium hardcover book blocks and paperback finished books.

If you are a seasoned print professional who enjoys leading a small team, solving mechanical puzzles, and delivering a flawless final product, we want you on our floor.

Pay: $23.00/Hr. – $30.25/Hr. (Night Shift Differential) On Demand Pay available (access a portion of your earned pay before pay day)

Shift: Monday - Thursday 7am - 7pm

Location: Hagerstown MD

Culture & Engagement: Safety First Standard, Food Trucks, Employee Events, Holiday Parties, Employee Recognition Program, Advancement Opportunities!

Job Responsibilities:

• Master the Machinery: Set up, troubleshoot, and operate complex bindery equipment (folding, gathering, binding, and trimming) to exact specifications
• Lead by Example: Direct, monitor, and support a small, dedicated crew of 2–3 helpers to keep production lines running efficiently.
• Build Team Skills: Actively train and cross-train your crew members during press set-ups and operations to elevate their technical competencies.
• Review Job Specifications: Interpret job tickets and communicate effectively with supervisors and your crew to ensure products meet strict customer standards.
• Maintain Safety & Quality: Rigorously adhere to all safety protocols and quality control standards, ensuring a zero-defect output.

What You Bring:

• Experience: 3 to 5 years of proven experience in an industrial bindery or print-finishing environment.
• Leadership Aptitude: Strong communication skills with the natural ability to provide clear direction, delegate tasks, and coach helpers.
• Mechanical Savvy: Highly mechanically inclined with the ability to diagnose and repair minor machinery issues on the fly.
• Technical Basics: Exceptional attention to detail, precision ruler-reading skills, and the ability to perform basic math calculations.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach continuously throughout a 12-hour shift.
• Ability to safely and repeatedly lift up to 40 lbs.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced production plant environment, which may include exposure to controlled, non-toxic chemical mists or vapors common in the printing process.

What we offer:

• Clean and safe work environment
• Work-life balance
• Growth and promotion opportunities
• Great culture and co-workers

Phoenix Color provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to 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.