Senior Operator

Pregis•Elgin, IL

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Pregis is seeking an experienced Senior Operator to join our manufacturing team in Elgin, IL. This role is ideal for skilled machine operators with experience in converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, finishing, or related manufacturing environments who are ready to take on a leadership role. As a Senior Operator, you will lead production crews, operate advanced converting and finishing equipment, troubleshoot production issues, maintain quality standards, and help drive productivity across the operation. This position plays a critical role in ensuring customer orders are produced safely, efficiently, and to specification. At Pregis, we invest in employee development through structured training programs, technical skill development, and advancement opportunities. Many of our operators have grown into maintenance, supervisory, technical, and leadership positions throughout the organization.

Requirements

Strong leadership and production floor experience
Ability to lead crews and support efficient machine operations
Advanced machine setup, troubleshooting, and operating skills
Strong mechanical aptitude
Ability to read and interpret job tickets and production specifications
Experience maintaining productivity, waste, and quality standards
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
High School Diploma or GED required
Frequent standing, walking, and stooping
Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds
Ability to work 12-hour shifts
Ability to work around moving production equipment
Occasional computer and keyboard use

Nice To Haves

Experience in converting operations
Packaging manufacturing experience
Direct mail production experience
Printing operations experience
Flexographic printing experience
Inline finishing equipment experience
Rotary cutting systems experience
Gluing systems experience
Labeling equipment experience
Web handling systems experience
Production changeovers and setups experience
Mechanical troubleshooting experience
Manufacturing team leadership experience
Production KPI management experience
5-7 years of converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, manufacturing, or related production experience preferred
Experience operating inline finishing and converting equipment preferred
Experience with machine setup, troubleshooting, and production leadership preferred
Mechanical repair and adjustment experience highly desirable

Responsibilities

Lead and support production crews to achieve safety, quality, and productivity goals
Provide direction and guidance during production runs
Promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
Assist with training and development of operators and support team members
Ensure smooth communication and shift transitions between crews
Operate converting, printing, finishing, and ancillary production equipment
Review job tickets and production specifications before beginning production runs
Verify all materials and job components are available prior to startup
Set up and operate inline equipment with minimal supervision
Perform machine adjustments, changeovers, and production setups
Operate gluing systems, labeling equipment, Straub applicators, rotary cutters, and related equipment
Install and position cylinders and plates as required
Monitor print quality, registration, and production output
Identify production issues and implement corrective actions
Perform minor mechanical adjustments and repairs
Troubleshoot line performance and equipment challenges
Continuously seek opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency
Support process improvement and operational excellence initiatives
Help establish best practices throughout the department
Ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards
Monitor production, waste, and productivity metrics
Accurately record production quantities, materials, downtime, and job information
Maintain accurate line counts and production reporting
Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Maintain departmental quality and performance expectations
Follow all company safety procedures and PPE requirements
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
Support departmental housekeeping standards
Ensure compliance with all workplace policies and safety requirements
Promote a strong safety-first culture