Machine/Finishing Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Job Title: Finishing Operator(Machine Operator)

Department: Finishing

Reports To: Production Manager

The Finishing Operator sets up, adjusts, and operates finishing equipment used in the production of direct mail materials, including basic inserters, labelers, inkjet machines, folders, cutters, and MBO finishing line equipment. This role is responsible for safe and efficient equipment operation, accurate job setup, consistent product quality, and timely completion of work in a fast-paced production environment. Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot routine equipment issues are essential to maintaining production flow and meeting customer deadlines.

• Read and follow job tickets, production schedules, samples, bluelines, and other job specifications; direct questions or discrepancies to the shift supervisor or production manager before proceeding.
• Inspect materials provided for each job to confirm they match the job ticket, sample board, blueline, and other applicable specifications.
• Set up, adjust, and operate finishing machines according to job specifications, operating procedures, and production schedules while minimizing setup waste and processing errors.
• Perform machine changeovers and adjustments for various paper sizes, folds, formats, and job types.
• Monitor machine performance, production flow, and product quality throughout each run; make mechanical or control adjustments as needed.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic mechanical or operating issues to minimize downtime; promptly report problems requiring additional technical or supervisory support.
• Complete required quality-control checks and verify that finished materials meet job specifications and established quality standards.
• Maintain accurate production, quality, downtime, and maintenance records and complete all required paperwork for each job.
• Perform routine equipment cleaning, inspection, and preventive maintenance in accordance with established procedures.
• Ensure equipment guards, safety devices, and switches are properly set and maintained; promptly report unsafe conditions or equipment concerns.
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and supplied to support safe and efficient operations.
• Perform handwork, material handling, packaging, sorting, and other production tasks as assigned.
• Work collaboratively with other production team members and departments to meet daily production goals, quality requirements, and customer deadlines.
• Follow all company policies, safety procedures, work instructions, and applicable quality requirements.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance and adapt to changing priorities, workloads, schedules, and business needs.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• Mechanical and Technical Aptitude - Understands basic machine functions, performs accurate setups and adjustments, and learns equipment and processes quickly.
• Quality and Attention to Detail - Carefully reviews job requirements, monitors output, completes quality checks, and identifies errors or defects promptly.
• Troubleshooting and Problem Solving - Recognizes routine equipment or process issues, determines likely causes, and makes appropriate corrections or seeks assistance.
• Planning and Time Management - Organizes work, completes changeovers efficiently, and manages assigned jobs to support production schedules and deadlines.
• Communication and Teamwork - Communicates clearly, asks questions when requirements are unclear, and works cooperatively with supervisors and coworkers.
• Dependability and Adaptability - Maintains reliable attendance, follows through on assignments, and adjusts effectively to changing priorities and production needs.
• Safety Focus - Consistently follows safety procedures and uses equipment, tools, materials, and required personal protective equipment appropriately.

• High school diploma or general education degree GED; one to three months of related experience or training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Manufacturing, finishing equipment, or machine operator experience preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow job tickets, work instructions, safety rules, operating procedures, and quality requirements.
• Ability to communicate effectively, manage time, maintain accurate records, and work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills and the ability to learn and use production equipment controls, software, and company systems as required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

• Regularly stands, walks, uses hands and fingers to handle or feel, reaches with hands and arms, stoops, kneels, crouches, or  crawls, and talks or hears.
• Regularly lifts or moves up to 10 pounds, frequently lifts or moves up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lifts or moves up to 50 pounds.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and production equipment.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately loud.
• Employees are expected to follow all applicable safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions. Duties and responsibilities may be added, removed, or modified based on business needs, consistent with applicable law. Nothing in this job description alters the at-will employment relationship.