Machine Operator II - PBP/Kluge

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, highly skilled Bindery & Finishing Operator to set up, operate, and maintain our premium finishing line. In this role, you will be responsible for the end-to-end execution of high-end print finishing projects using three core pieces of equipment: a Kluge EHD Foil Stamper, a Perfecta Cutting System Premium Line 115 or Similar, and a Kolbus DA 270 Case Maker/Binder or similar. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional mechanical aptitude, a mastery of registration and cutting precision, and a deep understanding of luxury book binding and embellishment.

Key Responsibilities/Essential Functions

• Makeready & Alignment: Independently set up the Kluge EHD platen press for foil stamping, embossing, debossing, and die-cutting based on strict job ticket specifications.
• Die & Temperature Control: Mount, lock up, and align magnesium, copper, or brass dies. Correctly calculate and monitor dwell times, pressure settings, and multi-zone heating elements.
• Stock & Feeding: Calibrate mechanical feeder arms and vacuum registration systems to handle luxury, heavy, or textured paper stocks without scuffing or marking.
• Programming & Cutting: Program, adjust, and operate the Perfecta Premium Line 115 cutter, utilizing its digital interface for complex cut sequences and layouts.
• Material Handling: Square, jog, and lift large paper lifts onto the cutting table, ensuring absolute precision to avoid shifting.
• Maintenance: Monitor blade sharpness, safely change cutting knives, and adjust clamp pressure according to the fragility or density of the stock.
• Setup & Changeovers: Perform precise mechanical setups and rapid changeovers on the Kolbus DA 270 for hard-cover book production, game boards, or luxury packaging components.
• Glue & Material Management: Monitor and adjust hot-melt/cold glue viscosity, temperature, and application thickness. Ensure accurate feeding of cloth, paper cover materials, and heavy board.
• Throughput Optimization: Safely operate the binder at peak speeds while continuously verifying that corners are tightly wrapped, boards are aligned, and the final cases meet geometric specifications.
• Continuous Inspection: Perform rigorous quality checks throughout production runs to catch micro-defects, foil picking, cutting drift, or case warping.
• Preventative Maintenance: Clean, oil, grease, and troubleshoot routine mechanical issues across all three lines to ensure minimal downtime.

Job Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
• Experience: 3–5+ years of hands-on experience operating industrial bindery equipment, specifically with a proven track record on Kluge platens, programmable linear paper cutters, and automated case-making/binding lines.
• Strong understanding of paper grain, glue chemistry, foil properties, and the unique physics of platen pressure and automated binding.
• Ability to interpret complex production layouts, imposition sheets, and structural folding diagrams.
• Exceptional decimal and fractional math skills.
• Ability to stand for long shifts, perform repetitive lifting of paper lifts/boards weighing up to 50 lbs, and work safely around high-heat and fast-moving mechanical parts.
• A perfectionist mindset required for handling luxury, high-value print collateral.
• Licenses/Certifications: N/A