Folder Operator - Nashville
About The Position
The Folder Gluer Operator sets up, operates, and maintains high-speed folding and gluing machinery to convert printed, die-cut paperboard blanks into finished folding cartons and packaging. The role requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a focus on safety to ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards at maximum production speeds. The operator performs machine make-readies and adjustments, configures machine stations and glue systems, and runs a variety of carton styles. The role also involves monitoring product quality and production, troubleshooting machinery, completing routine preventive maintenance, maintaining production records, and following safety and housekeeping standards.
Requirements
- 1 to 3+ years of experience operating high-speed folder-gluer systems.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools for precise machine setups.
- Solid math skills, including fractions and decimals, and ability to read a standard tape measure to 1/32 of an inch.
- Ability to read and interpret structural layouts, design blueprints, and production orders.
- Ability to stand for the duration of an 8- to 12-hour shift on concrete floors.
- Ability to regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks, including bending, reaching, and twisting.
Responsibilities
- Perform complete machine make-readies and adjustments based on job tickets and sample boxes.
- Configure machine stations, including the feeder, pre-folders, hot-melt and cold-glue systems, delivery aprons, and compression belts.
- Run straight-line, lock-bottom (crash-lock), 4-corner, and 6-corner carton styles.
- Monitor production to ensure correct glue application, fold alignment, and product registration.
- Inspect finished products for scuffing, cracking, glue smudges, improper adhesion, and other defects.
- Operate quality tracking systems, including barcode scanners, glue detectors, and vision systems.
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues such as misfeeds, jamming, and erratic glue placement.
- Perform preventive maintenance, including cleaning glue nozzles, lubricating parts, and replacing worn belts.
- Collaborate with maintenance technicians on major machinery repairs.
- Record production quantities, setup times, waste and scrap counts, and runtime metrics.
- Follow safety rules, including machine-guarding compliance and PPE requirements.
- Keep the work area clean and organized according to 5S or local housekeeping standards.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
