Rotary Die Cutter Operator
7 days ago
Ontario
Job DescriptionPosition Summary: We are seeking a skilled and motivated Rotary Die Cutter Operator to join our production team in the corrugated packaging industry. This position is responsible for the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of multi-color flexographic rotary die cutting equipment, producing high-quality printed and die-cut corrugated containers. The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience with rotary die cutters that include inline printing capabilities and will demonstrate strong leadership, mechanical aptitude, and attention to safety, quality, and efficiency. Major Responsibilities: • Lead and oversee a production crew of 3 or more team members, with a focus on safe work practices, product quality, machine efficiency, and cleanliness., • Operate and set up flexo-equipped rotary die cutting machines (e.g., Ward, Bobst DRO, Göpfert, or equivalent) according to job specifications and order requirements., • Coordinate with Design, Scheduling, Customer Service, and Maintenance teams to ensure accurate job setups, tooling readiness, and production timelines., • Set and calibrate all major machine components, including:, • Flexo print decks (anilox rolls, print cylinders, doctor blades, ink pumps), • Rotary die cutting cylinders, anvil blankets, trim removal systems, • Feeder section, vacuum transfer system, stacker/bundler configuration, • Ink systems, viscosity, pH, and color control, • Perform in-process quality checks for print registration, ink coverage, die cut accuracy, and overall dimensional tolerances., • Monitor and document key process parameters such as run speeds, downtime causes, scrap levels, and maintenance needs., • Accurately input job data into ERP and production tracking systems (e.g., Amtech, ScoreKeeper, or similar)., • Comply with all plant safety procedures, lockout/tagout protocols, and quality control guidelines.Daily Responsibilities:, • Perform machine setup at the start of each shift, including mounting print plates, setting die cylinders, and calibrating ink and feed systems., • Conduct first-article inspection and monitor product quality throughout the shift., • Record production, scrap, downtime, and maintenance events into digital or paper-based systems., • Maintain cleanliness around the machine area in accordance with 5S and lean manufacturing practices., • Inspect and clean ink stations, anilox rolls, and doctor blades to ensure consistent print quality.Weekly Responsibilities:, • Partner with Maintenance and Supervisors to schedule and execute preventative maintenance tasks (e.g., anilox cleaning, die cylinder checks, belt replacements)., • Evaluate job setups and provide feedback to improve changeover times, print consistency, and die longevity., • Assist in training new operators or crew members, cross-training on adjacent equipment when necessary., • Review upcoming orders to verify tooling, print plates, and die boards are prepared and staged., • Participate in safety meetings and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.As-Needed Responsibilities:, • Troubleshoot and correct issues related to print defects (ghosting, ink starvation, registration), die cutting inaccuracies, and feeding/stacking jams., • Safely manage ink and waste disposal per environmental and company standards., • Support customer trials or prototyping runs, including test prints and new die validations., • Work with Quality and Engineering to ensure jobs meet customer specs and internal performance criteria., • 2+ years' operating rotary die cutting equipment with integrated flexographic printing in a corrugated production environment., • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to set up and troubleshoot complex converting equipment., • Knowledge of corrugated substrates, flute profiles, and how board characteristics affect print and die cut performance., • Experience with multi-color water-based flexo systems, including ink mixing, pH/viscosity control, and anilox roll maintenance., • Proficient in reading job tickets, CAD layouts, print specs, and die cut schematics., • Ability to work in a team-based environment and lead production crews effectively., • Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Amtech), downtime tracking tools, and Microsoft Office.Education & Experience:, • High school diploma or equivalent required., • 3–5+ years of hands-on experience operating specialty folder gluers in packaging industry, • Ability to stand, bend, and lift for extended periods (up to 12-hour shifts)., • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and operate equipment in a manufacturing environment., • Tolerance to noise, dust, and adhesives commonly found in corrugated facilities.#ZR