Job Description

Position Overview

The Bindery Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a wide range of finishing equipment in a high-volume commercial print environment. This role ensures printed materials are finished accurately, efficiently, and to quality standards, including folding, cutting, trimming, stitching, binding, and packaging.

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, mechanically inclined team player who thrives in a fast-paced production setting and takes pride in delivering precise, customer-ready work.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Setup & Operation (including the following, but not limited to)

Set up, adjust, and operate bindery equipment such as: Guillotine cutters Folders (buckle and knife) Saddle stitchers Perfect binders Coil, wire-o, and comb binding machines Laminators and shrink-wrapping machines Collators and booklet makers Interpret job tickets, production plans, and finishing specifications to ensure accuracy.

Quality Control

Inspect printed sheets and finished products for accuracy, registration, trim, color consistency, and overall finishing quality. Monitor in-process work to ensure tolerances and specifications are met. Identify and correct issues related to machine setup, paper defects, or print alignment.

Production Workflow

Coordinate with press operators, prepress, and other departments to ensure smooth job transitions. Prioritize tasks based on production deadlines and machine availability. Track time and materials used for each job in the production management system.

Maintenance & Safety

Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs on bindery equipment. Follow all safety protocols related to machine operation and material handling. Maintain an organized and hazard-free bindery area.

Packaging & Shipping Prep

Bundle, box, band, or shrink-wrap finished products according to job requirements. Label, organize, and prepare finished goods for pickup, delivery, or shipment.

Qualifications

Required

Experience operating bindery or finishing equipment in a commercial print environment (or strong mechanical aptitude with willingness to train). Ability to read and interpret job tickets, dockets, and finishing instructions. Strong attention to detail with high standards for quality. Ability to lift 40-50 lbs and stand for extended periods. Good understanding of production workflow, deadlines, and teamwork.

Preferred

1+ years in a commercial print shop bindery department. Familiarity with digital finishing equipment (Duplo, Morgana, Horizon, etc.). Experience with programmable cutters and automated finishing systems.

Key Competencies

Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills Time management and multitasking Communication and teamwork Commitment to workplace safety Reliability and punctuality

Work Environment

Fast-paced, deadline-driven production setting Exposure to cutting, folding, and binding machinery Moderate noise levels Physical work including lifting, stacking, bending, and carrying materials

Why Join Our Team?

Opportunity to work with modern print and finishing technology Supportive team environment with room for skill development Competitive compensation Extended health, dental, vision, and life insurance Paid time off and vacation plans Flex hours and summer hours Free on-site parking Year-end holiday office closure Team-building events and 2-3 bonus paid days off per year A fun, encouraging, fast-growing workplace with big opportunities
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00-$20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Dental care Extended health care Life insurance Vision care
Work Location: In person