Coating Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Position Summary

The Coating Machine Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, monitoring, and maintenance of coating and printing equipment used to produce high‑quality label rolls, fanfold products, and sheeted materials. This role ensures production is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with customer specifications, quality standards, and company procedures. The operator also provides leadership and guidance to assigned Coating Machine Assistants.

Responsibilities

• Production Operations: Set up, operate, and monitor coating and printing equipment to meet customer specifications and production schedules; review job orders and production documentation to determine quantities, materials, colors, coating requirements, timelines, and machine settings; select, install, and adjust printing plates, rollers, dies, cylinders, gauges, and related components; set and adjust machine speed, temperature, pressure, coating weights, ink flow, and other parameters; monitor operation and product output, making adjustments as needed; load raw materials and substrates and unload finished products.
• Coating and Ink Preparation: Follow approved formulas and procedures to weigh, mix, and prepare coating solutions for paper and film substrates; measure and adjust ink color, viscosity, and pH to meet manufacturer and customer specifications; apply coatings consistently to achieve required coat weights and performance; conduct testing of coatings and finished products to verify quality and functionality.
• Quality Assurance: Inspect products throughout production for print clarity, color accuracy, coating performance, and compliance with specifications; conduct routine quality checks using measuring devices, testing equipment, and visual inspections; identify defects, troubleshoot issues, and make process adjustments; maintain accurate production records, quality documentation, and equipment logs.
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance on coating and printing equipment; monitor equipment performance and identify potential maintenance concerns; assist with troubleshooting machine malfunctions and coordinate repairs; keep the work area clean, organized, and safe.
• Leadership and Team Support: Provide direction, training, and support to Coating Machine Assistants; promote teamwork and effective communication within the production department; support continuous‑improvement efforts and contribute to departmental goals.
• Safety and Compliance: Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements; properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure safe operation of machinery; identify and report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, and workplace hazards; operate forklifts and other material‑handling equipment as authorized and trained; utilize inventory management systems, scanners, and production software as required; perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Competencies:
  • Accountability – ownership of responsibilities and follow‑through on commitments.
  • Accuracy and Attention to Detail – high precision in machine setup, product quality, documentation, and processes.
  • Adaptability – effective response to changing priorities and production demands.
  • Communication – clear, professional interaction with team members, supervisors, quality personnel, and other departments.
  • Organization – maintain an organized work environment and manage production activities and documentation.
  • Problem Solving – identify production issues, evaluate solutions, and take corrective action.
  • Safety Awareness – recognize and address safety risks while maintaining compliance.
  • Leadership – provide guidance, coaching, and support to team members.
• Qualifications:
  • Education – High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Experience – prior experience operating coating, printing, converting, or similar manufacturing equipment preferred; experience in flexographic printing, coating applications, or label manufacturing is a plus.
  • Computer Skills – basic proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and ability to use production software, inventory systems, and scanning technology.
  • Technical Skills – strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting abilities, and ability to read and interpret job specifications, production orders, and technical documents; knowledge of quality control processes and measuring equipment preferred.
  • Equipment Certifications – forklift certification or ability to obtain certification as required.
• Work Environment: Manufacturing setting with frequent exposure to moving machinery, noise, vibration, heat, varying temperatures, inks, coatings, solvents, and other production materials; material‑handling activities and production‑related hazards; required use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Physical Requirements:
  • Standing – constant
  • Walking – frequent
  • Sitting – occasional
  • Handling Materials – constant
  • Reaching Outward – frequent
  • Reaching Above Shoulder – frequent
  • Bending – frequent
  • Climbing – occasional
  • Crawling – occasional
  • Squatting/Kneeling – occasional
  • Lifting/Carrying:
    • Up to 10 lb – constant
    • 11–20 lb – frequent
    • 21–50 lb – frequent
    • 51–100 lb – frequent
    • Over 100 lb – occasional (with assistance or appropriate equipment)
  • Push/Pull:
    • Up to 12 lb – constant
    • 13–25 lb – frequent
    • 26–40 lb – frequent
    • 41–100 lb – occasional
• Reasonable Accommodation: Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.