Laminator Operator

The Laminator Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining lamination equipment to produce high-quality packaging products. The role requires technical expertise to ensure product quality, maintain production efficiency, and meet customer specifications while adhering to strict safety protocols. This role is essential to maintaining Printpack's reputation as an industry leader in innovative packaging solutions and requires a detail-oriented individual committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Set up, operate, and monitor lamination equipment, including adhesive laminator, and any downstream or affiliated equipment/systems to produce high-quality packaging materials while maintaining safety standards
Manage material preparation and handling, including printed rolls for primary unwind and back stock rolls for secondary unwind, ensuring proper placement and splicing procedures
Perform quality control checks throughout the production process, including monitoring hole sizes, patterns, and overall product specifications to meet customer requirements
Monitor and maintain proper adhesive and any other applications, ensuring appropriate material levels and consistent application
Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate with maintenance teams to minimize downtime and resolve technical problems
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 ensuring proper safety protocols are followed
Coordinate with other departments for job preparation, changeovers, and resolution of production issues through effective verbal and written communication
Maintain cleanliness of equipment and work area through regular housekeeping duties, including cleaning NIP rolls during setup and downtime
Monitor and achieve productivity goals through efficient run speeds, minimal setup times, and effective coordination with support departments while maintaining quality standards
Other duties as assigned
Education & Experience:
High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent preferred
Previous manufacturing experience a plus
Demonstrated stable work history
Required Skills:
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
Additional Requirements:
Must be 18 years of age
Must pass pre-employment assessment
Drug screening required
Background check required
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Technical knowledge of lamination processes
Understanding of raw materials and film properties
Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
Ability to work independently
Detail-oriented with strong quality focus
Decision-making and analytical skills
Manufacturing safety protocols
Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
Analytical thinking
Team collaboration
Physical Demands: The associate will be exposed to the manufacturing environment where hazards and requirements may include but are not limited to:
Must be able to lift and handle objects weighing up to 50 pounds
Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods
Ability to climb, kneel, bend, stoop, reach and squat
Proficiency in grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine motor skills
Use of ladders and other equipment
Ability to wear required PPE (hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, safety glasses)
Forklift certification or ability to obtain forklift and pallet jacks
Travel Requirements: None
Work Conditions: The majority of tasks will be performed in a manufacturing setting with exposure to:
Noise levels above 85 dB
Operation of complex machinery
Solvents, fumes and inks
Variable Temperatures
Must be able to work flexible shifts
May require overtime, weekends, and holidays.
An additional $2.50/hr premium for hours worked on NIGHT Shift only (qualifying hours vary by location).
.
Additional Internal Requirements:
Must demonstr