Utility - Die Maker

Role and Responsibilities

The Die Maker Utility is responsible for preparing dies for the die-cutters, monitoring the process during pre-make-ready, and checking the final product for quality. This role also involves communication with the CAD department and assisting with die-cutters or pre-make-ready operations as needed.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Prepare tooling for two die cutters - minimum of 4 hours.
• Assist die cutters with make-ready.
• Support continuous runs on both machines - 1 hour.
• Perform general housekeeping duties including removing bales, stripping, emptying containers, and cleaning.

Objective

• Inspect dies and die boards; enter relevant data into the system.
• Knife incoming dies, re-knife existing dies, and assist operators during Make Ready.
• Organize the die room and tooling inventory.

Equipment Used

• Easy Bender Turbo
• Iberica 105 Blanker
• Bobst 106 NOVACUT

Tasks Performed

• Prepare all tooling for die cutting equipment per schedule.
• Coordinate with the CAD department on scheduling.
• Pull files on the Easy Bender Turbo.
• Knife new dies.
• Rule up dies according to stock and caliper.
• Tape off samples and compare to CAD samples for accuracy.
• Nick and rubber steel rule dies according to equipment guidelines.
• Prepare counter plates per job requirements (matrix, phenolic, steel).
• Build and preset stripping components for press readiness.
• Build and preset blanking components for press readiness.

Tooling Storage and Die Log

• Evaluate tooling returned from previous jobs.
• Review job jackets and die logs for re-knife or rework requirements.
• Assign and maintain storage locations.
• Ensure die tooling storage integrity is maintained.

Other Tasks

• Maintain appropriate inventory of die room supplies.
• Communicate with other departments for status updates.
• Participate in special projects (repairs, jig construction).
• Recommend and implement improvements within the department or company-wide.
• Adhere to all safety procedures and maintain a safe, hazard-free work environment. Report and help correct safety hazards as needed.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Education:

• High school diploma required.
• College education preferred.
• 3-5+ years of industry-specific experience preferred.
• Previous die cut operator experience is a plus.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Proficient in math, writing, and computer skills.
• Strong organizational and analytical abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient with Excel and Outlook.
• Detail-oriented with working knowledge of die cutting and related equipment.
• Mechanically inclined.
• Experience with machinery or power tools.
• Ability to read measuring tools (tape measure, ruler, calipers).

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs with occasional bending and stooping.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods.
• Visual requirements include close, distance, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work environment is not temperature-controlled