Coating Machine Operator 3rd Shift

Heartland Label Printers•Little Chute, WI

12h

About The Position

The Coating Machine Operator sets up, operates, monitors, and maintains coating and printing equipment used to produce label rolls, fanfold products, and sheeted materials. The role ensures production meets customer specifications, quality standards, safety requirements, and company procedures, and provides leadership and guidance to assigned Coating Machine Assistants. The operator reviews job orders, configures equipment and machine parameters, prepares coating solutions and inks, monitors output, and performs quality checks. The role also maintains production and quality records, performs routine equipment care, supports troubleshooting and repairs, and helps maintain a clean and safe manufacturing area. The operator follows safety and regulatory requirements, uses required PPE, and may operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment when authorized and trained.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Ability to use production software, inventory systems, and scanning technology.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
Ability to read and interpret job specifications, production orders, and technical documents.
Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification as required.
Demonstrated accountability, accuracy and attention to detail, adaptability, communication, organization, problem-solving, safety awareness, and leadership competencies.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience operating coating, printing, converting, or similar manufacturing equipment.
Experience in flexographic printing, coating applications, or label manufacturing.
Knowledge of quality control processes and measuring equipment.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor coating and printing equipment to meet customer specifications and production schedules.
Review job orders and production documentation to determine quantities, materials, colors, coating requirements, timelines, and machine settings.
Select, install, and adjust printing plates, rollers, dies, cylinders, gauges, and related machine components.
Set and adjust machine speed, temperature, pressure, coating weights, ink flow, and other operating parameters.
Monitor machine operation and product output, making adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency.
Load raw materials and substrates into equipment and unload finished products.
Weigh, mix, and prepare coating solutions according to approved formulas and procedures.
Measure and adjust ink color, viscosity, and pH according to manufacturer and customer specifications.
Apply coatings consistently to achieve required coat weights and performance characteristics.
Test coatings and finished products for quality and functionality.
Inspect products for print clarity, color accuracy, coating performance, and compliance with specifications.
Perform routine quality checks using measuring devices, testing equipment, and visual inspections.
Identify defects, troubleshoot issues, and adjust processes to maintain product quality.
Maintain production records, quality documentation, and equipment logs.
Clean, lubricate, and perform preventive maintenance on coating and printing equipment.
Monitor equipment performance, identify potential maintenance concerns, assist with troubleshooting malfunctions, and coordinate repairs when necessary.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
Provide direction, training, and support to Coating Machine Assistants.
Promote teamwork and effective communication within the production department.
Support continuous improvement efforts and departmental goals.
Follow company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements; use PPE and ensure safe machine operation.
Identify and report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, and workplace hazards.
Operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment when authorized and trained.
Use inventory management systems, scanners, and production software as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.