Coating Machine Operator 3rd Shift

Heartland Label Printers LLC•Little Chute, WI

23d

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 is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with customer specifications, quality standards, and company procedures. The operator also provides leadership and guidance to assigned Coating Machine Assistants. The position involves preparing coating solutions and inks, monitoring product quality, keeping production and equipment records, and performing routine equipment maintenance. Work is performed primarily in a manufacturing environment, with exposure to moving machinery, noise, vibration, heat, varying temperatures, inks, coatings, solvents, material handling activities, and other production-related hazards. Appropriate personal protective equipment is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
Ability to read and interpret job specifications, production orders, and technical documents.
Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Ability to use production software, inventory systems, and scanning technology.
Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification as required.
Demonstrated accountability, accuracy, 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 according to 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.
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.
Conduct 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 maintenance concerns, and assist with troubleshooting malfunctions and coordinating repairs.
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 personal protective equipment and operate machinery safely.
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.