Flexo Folder Gluer Operator Assistant

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Flexo Folder Gluer Operator Assistant to join our high-performance production team within the corrugated packaging industry. This position plays a vital role in assisting in the operation of multi-color flexographic printing presses integrated with rotary die cutting, folding, and gluing systems. The ideal candidate will have a background in flexo press setup and converting operations and knowledge of box manufacturing processes.

This is a hands‑on role focused on safety, product quality, and maximizing uptime in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.

• Member of a press crew of 3 or more team members with a strong emphasis on safety, quality assurance, housekeeping, and machine performance.
• Assist in collaborating cross‑functionally with Design, Client Services, Scheduling, Sales, and Maintenance teams to ensure efficient job setups and on‑time order fulfillment aligned with customer specifications.
• Assist in the operation and set up a variety of Flexo Folder Gluer equipment (e.g., Ward, Bobst, Martin, Gopfert, or equivalent) per production specifications and work orders.
• Assist in the configuration and fine‑tune machine components including:
  • Print decks (anilox rolls, doctor blades, ink pans)
  • Registration systems, die cut sections, and slotting knives
  • Feeder, folding arms, vacuum transfer, and delivery sections
  • Glue systems (cold or hot melt, extrusion nozzles, pattern controllers)
  • Compression and bundling systems
• Assisting in performing detailed inspections of incoming board stock and in‑process production to meet internal quality standards and customer expectations (ISO/GFSI compliance where applicable).
• Assist in monitoring and optimizing press run speeds, ink and glue application, registration accuracy, and folding alignment to minimize waste and maximize output.
• Escalate complex mechanical or electrical issues to the Maintenance Team and provide accurate feedback for root cause analysis.
• Accurately record production output, waste, downtime codes, and other job metrics into ERP systems (e.g., Amtech, Score Keeper, or similar).

• Assist in conducting complete machine setups including print plate mounting, anilox selection, viscosity checks, and folder/gluer calibration.
• Assist in performing startup checks for print quality, board integrity, glue application, and die cut accuracy.
• Input real‑time data into production systems, including shift performance, downtime reasons, and quality rejects.
• Perform housekeeping tasks in compliance with 5S standards and lean practices.
• Maintain ink and glue systems by checking viscosity, cleanliness, and proper flow.

• Help in coordinating with Maintenance and Supervision to perform and schedule preventative maintenance tasks such as:
• Help with lubrication, belt tensioning, anilox roll cleaning, and inspection of folding elements.
• Provide feedback on setup times, job changeovers, and identify opportunities for standard work improvements.
• Support onboarding and training of new Flexo crew members and cross‑train on auxiliary equipment (e.g., rotary die cutters, stackers).
• Actively participate in toolbox talks and safety meetings.

• Participate in Kaizen events, SOP updates, and operator‑led quality audits.
• Assist with customer trial runs, prototyping, or first‑article inspections for new product launches.
• Ensure proper handling, labeling, and disposal of inks, adhesives, and corrugated scrap per company and environmental guidelines.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Strong mechanical aptitude with experience troubleshooting and fine‑tuning high‑speed flexographic printing and folding/gluing lines.
• Solid understanding of corrugated board grades, flute profiles, and how substrate characteristics impact print, fold, and glue performance.
• Experience with multi‑color flexo systems (2‑4+ color decks), inline rotary die cutting, and folder‑gluer operation.
• Proficient in reading job tickets, CAD drawings, die lines, and customer print specs.
• Competence in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and manufacturing reporting tools.
• Familiarity…