Folder Operator - Nashville

Position Overview

The Folder Gluer Operator sets up, operates, and maintains high-speed folding and gluing machinery to convert printed, die-cut paperboard blanks into finished folding cartons and packaging. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, high attention to detail, and a focus on safety to ensure all products meet customer specifications and quality standards at maximum production speeds.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Execution

• Perform complete make-readies and machine adjustments based on job tickets and sample boxes.
• Configure all machine stations, including the feeder, pre-folders, glue systems (hot melt and cold glue), delivery aprons, and compression belts.
• Run various carton styles, such as straight-line, lock-bottom (crash-lock), 4-corner, and 6-corner boxes.

Quality & Production Control

• Monitor production continuously to ensure proper glue application, strict fold alignment, and correct product registration.
• Inspect finished pieces for defects like scuffing, cracking, glue smudges, or improper adhesion.
• Manage quality tracking systems, including barcode scanners, glue detectors, and vision systems.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues during production runs (e.g., misfeeds, jamming, or erratic glue placement).
• Perform routine preventive maintenance, including cleaning glue nozzles, lubricating parts, and replacing worn belts.
• Collaborate with maintenance technicians on major machinery repairs.

Documentation & Safety

• Maintain precise logs of production quantities, setup times, waste/scrap counts, and runtime metrics.
• Adhere to all safety rules, including machine guarding compliance and PPE requirements.
• Keep the work area clean and organized according to 5S or local housekeeping standards.

Qualifications

Qualifications & Skills

Experience & Education

• 1 to 3+ years of experience operating high-speed folder-gluer systems (e.g., Bobst, Signature, Diana, Jagenberg, or Moll).
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Technical Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to use hand tools for precise machine setups.
• Solid math skills, including fractions, decimals, and reading a standard tape measure down to 1/32 of an inch.
• Ability to read and interpret structural layouts, design blueprints, and production orders.

Physical Requirements

• Stand for the duration of a shift (8 to 12 hours) on concrete floors.
• Lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly when loading blanks or moving packed cartons.
• Perform repetitive physical tasks, including bending, reaching, and twisting.