Laminator Operator

Printpack•Rhinelander, WI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Laminator Operator operates and maintains lamination equipment to produce high-quality packaging products. The role requires technical expertise to ensure product quality, production efficiency, and compliance with customer specifications and safety protocols. The position supports Printpack’s packaging operations and continuous improvement efforts. Work is primarily performed in a manufacturing setting, with exposure to noise levels above 85 dB, complex machinery, solvents, fumes, inks, and variable temperatures. Flexible shifts may be required, as well as overtime, weekends, and holidays. A $2.50-per-hour premium applies to qualifying hours worked on the night shift; qualifying hours vary by location. Travel is not required. The associate must meet the listed physical demands, including handling objects up to 50 pounds, standing and walking for extended periods, climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping, reaching, and squatting. The role also requires grasping, pushing, pulling, fine motor skills, using ladders and other equipment, and wearing required PPE such as hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, and safety glasses. Forklift certification or the ability to obtain certification for forklifts and pallet jacks is required. Printpack states that it is an equal-opportunity employer committed to an inclusive environment and provides a process for requesting reasonable accommodations during the application or job-search process.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must pass a pre-employment assessment.
Drug screening and background check required.
Strong mechanical aptitude.
Attention to detail and quality control.
Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
Basic computer literacy.
Ability to read and use measuring tools.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Basic mathematical skills.
Time-management and organizational abilities.
Technical knowledge of lamination processes.
Understanding of raw materials and film properties.
Ability to work independently and make decisions using analytical thinking.
Knowledge of manufacturing safety protocols and equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
Must demonstrate Printpack Core Values, be in good standing with no disciplinary action or attendance issues, and have a performer or higher rating in the last review.
Demonstrated sense of urgency in production recovery situations.
Must be able to lift and handle objects weighing up to 50 pounds and meet the stated physical demands of the manufacturing environment.
Ability to wear required PPE, including hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, and safety glasses.
Forklift certification or ability to obtain forklift and pallet-jack certification.

Nice To Haves

High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent preferred.
Previous manufacturing experience is a plus.
Demonstrated stable work history.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor adhesive lamination equipment and affiliated downstream equipment or systems while maintaining safety standards.
Prepare and handle materials, including printed primary-unwind rolls and secondary-unwind back-stock rolls, ensuring proper placement and splicing.
Perform quality-control checks throughout production, including monitoring hole sizes, patterns, and product specifications.
Monitor adhesive and other applications to ensure proper material levels and consistent application.
Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate with maintenance teams to resolve problems and minimize downtime.
Complete accurate and timely production reporting, including waste documentation, start-up roll measurements, and production metrics.
Train and mentor new operators, sharing technical knowledge and reinforcing safety protocols.
Coordinate with other departments on job preparation, changeovers, and production issues using effective verbal and written communication.
Maintain equipment and work-area cleanliness through regular housekeeping, including cleaning NIP rolls during setup and downtime.
Monitor and achieve productivity goals through efficient run speeds, minimal setup times, and coordination with support departments while maintaining quality standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.