Glue Machine Operator

Advatix, Inc.•Sturgis, MI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Gluing Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring folder-gluer equipment used to convert die-cut carton blanks into finished folding cartons that meet customer, quality, and production requirements. This role ensures accurate folding, adhesive application, carton integrity, and efficient throughput while supporting specialty finishing requirements such as in-line braille embossing, detection, and ejection systems when applicable.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks, and handle materials throughout the shift
Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and weekends as production needs require

Nice To Haves

2+ years of experience operating folder-gluer, gluing, or other carton converting equipment in a packaging or print manufacturing environment preferred
Working knowledge of folding carton construction, adhesive application, carton defects, and finishing quality standards
Ability to read production documentation, measurements, die lines, and job specifications accurately
Mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform setups, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting on gluing equipment
Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain quality while working in a fast-paced production environment
Experience operating folder-gluer equipment in folding carton or specialty packaging production
Familiarity with carton jobs involving braille embossing, pharmaceutical or nutraceutical packaging, or other regulated packaging requirements
Experience working within ISO 9001:2015, CGMP, or similarly controlled manufacturing environments
Exposure to automated detection and ejection systems used in folder-gluer operations

Responsibilities

Set up and operate folder-gluer or related gluing equipment to produce finished folding cartons and packaging components according to job specifications
Read and interpret job tickets, layouts, samples, and production instructions to confirm box style, fold sequence, glue pattern, pack-out requirements, and finished carton standards
Prepare machine make-readies, including feeder setup, rails, carriers, folding sections, compression areas, glue systems, and delivery configurations
Adjust machine settings to maintain proper carton squareness, fold accuracy, glue placement, compression, and output speed throughout each run
Inspect finished cartons for defects such as glue misses, fish tails, cracking, warp, improper fold, poor bond strength, braille issues, or cosmetic damage, and make corrections as needed
Support jobs that require specialty finishing features, including in-line braille embossing performed on gluer equipment for carton applications
Monitor and respond to machine quality controls, including detection and ejection systems designed to improve efficiency and reduce defects in folder-gluer operations
Perform in-process quality checks and line clearances in accordance with company procedures, customer requirements, and regulated packaging expectations
Coordinate with die-cutting, packing, quality, and supervisory teams to ensure smooth workflow, quick changeovers, and on-time completion of jobs
Record production counts, waste, downtime, setup details, and job completion information accurately
Complete routine cleaning, lubrication, preventive maintenance checks, and minor troubleshooting to keep equipment operating safely and efficiently
Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow all safety, housekeeping, and standard operating procedures