Operator II

Pregis • Elgin, IL

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor and/or Operations Manager, the Bindery Operator II is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining bindery and finishing equipment to produce high-quality printed products while meeting customer specifications, production schedules, and company performance standards. This position plays a key role in the finishing process, transforming printed materials into completed products such as books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines, and mail pieces. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Pregis is committed to employee development through hands-on training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities. Team members are encouraged to expand their technical skills through cross-training and development programs designed to support growth within manufacturing operations.

Requirements

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience operating bindery, finishing, printing, mailing, or manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret production instructions and job specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lead and support production crew activities.
• Knowledge of manufacturing safety practices and procedures.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining productivity and quality standards.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Nice To Haves

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred.
• Previous bindery, printing, finishing, mailing, packaging, or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience operating bindery equipment such as folders, stitchers, cutters, collators, drills, or binding equipment preferred.
• Mechanical troubleshooting and machine setup experience preferred.
• Experience leading or coordinating production activities is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust, operate, and monitor a variety of bindery and finishing equipment, including folders, cutters, collators, stitchers, drills, binding and gluing machines, inkjet systems, and mailing equipment.
• Operate equipment safely and efficiently while meeting production, quality, and productivity goals.
• Perform machine setups, changeovers, and adjustments to support production schedules and customer requirements.
• Operate automated bindery equipment consisting of multiple functions and workstations, including paper cutters, collators, gatherers, folders, and binding equipment.
• Produce finished products such as books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines, and other printed materials.
• Inspect equipment and work areas to ensure safe operation and compliance with company safety standards.
• Monitor product quality throughout the production process and make necessary adjustments to maintain specifications.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and operational issues to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.
• Operate adhesive binding equipment, including perfect binders, and monitor associated processes such as gluing, covering, stacking, and finishing operations.
• Coordinate multiple machine stations and functions to ensure efficient workflow and product quality.
• Maintain accurate production records, counts, and documentation.
• Monitor quality, productivity, and output throughout production runs.
• Lead and support production crews through daily operations while promoting teamwork and communication.
• Perform routine cleaning and housekeeping activities in accordance with Pregis standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and waste reduction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employee development through hands-on training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.
• Expand technical skills through cross-training and development programs.
• Structured training and advancement opportunities.
• Hands-on equipment and technical skills training.
• Cross-training opportunities across manufacturing operations.
• Mentorship and development programs.
• Opportunities to advance into higher-level operational and leadership roles.
• Continuous learning in a safety-focused manufacturing environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED