Job Description

Job Summary:

The Finishing Operator sets up and operates the Perfect Binding Line, Saddle Binding Line, Packaging Line, Guillotine Cutters, Folders, Tipping Machine, and Drill.    

Essential Functions:

• Perform job duties and conducts self in accordance with Allen Press, Inc. core values in alignment with Company Vision.
• Read project specification sheet to determine setup specifications and instructions.
• Make sure product is staged correctly at the machine.
• Ability to set up and operate a high speed automated Perfect Binder (Kolbus), gather machine, three knife trimmer, and book stacker to achieve maximum efficiency.
  1. Ensure accurate programming using the computer controls.
  2. Oversee set up and correct loading of the signature in the gather machine.
  3. Ensure adhesive is applied correctly and books are being trimmed to specifications.
• Ability to set up and operate a saddle binder (Muller Martini), collator, and three knife trimmer.
  1. Able to make mechanical adjustments to the machine as necessary.
  2. Make sure signatures are set up correctly for gathering.
  3. Making sure staples and covers are applied correctly and books are trimmed to specifications.
• Ensure a high quality of the product being produced.
• Ability to set up and operate a high speed automated packaging line, ink jet printer, controller, stacker, and strappers.
  1. Ensure accuracy of the mail list and customer specific templates.
  2. Ability to properly sort, sack, and stack bound printed matter on pallets per USPS requirements.
  3. Preparation of palletized mail shipments by wrapping them and applying proper postal documentation.
  4. Verification of inventory figures after the mailings have been completed.
• Oversee helpers while staging, loading, and stacking finished products.
• Ability to follow quality control guidelines.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment failure and or product failure.
• Conduct and/or oversee preventive maintenance on equipment.
• Follow safety rules and regulations.
• Maintain records of daily production.
• Examine finished product for defects.
• Ability to assist in other areas as production levels require.

Non-Essential Functions:

• Perform other duties as assigned which could include but not be limited to assisting work areas with minor production work.

• Ability to set up and operate a Guillotine Cutter by programming the controller with size specifications ensuring accuracy of the cuts and quality checking for ink smudging due to the clamp on the cutter.
• Ability to set up and operate the MBO folders, making mechanical adjustments to the machine dependent on the size and number of folds.
• Ability to set up and operate a Tipping Machine (Hunkler tipping and Nordson gluing) by making adjustments and making sure the material glues together.
• Ability to set up and operate the Lawson 3-hole drill by ensuing proper placement of the holes, checking off-centered holes and tearing caused by a dull drill bit. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Experience/Qualifications

• Must be self-directed, team-oriented.
• Ability to multi-task and problem solve in a fast-paced environment required.
• Must have a keen eye for detail.
• Previous bindery or packaging experience preferred. Previous cutting, folding or drilling experience preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent education required.
• Production experience preferred.
• Possess willingness to follow established procedures a take constructive criticism.
• Ability to work with others in accomplishing tasks or goals in a team atmosphere.
• Experience operating a pallet jack and power lift preferred.
• Knowledge of USPS postal regulations preferred.
• Experience with maintaining a safe work environment in accordance with Allen press safety protocol and OSHA standards by wearing assigned protective equipment and reporting any actual or potential safety hazards to the Human Resources Safety Coordinator or supervisor.
• Basic computer skills required.

Cognitive/Physical Requirements

• Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Manual dexterity is necessary.
• Ability to work in a production environment that is fast-paced and team-oriented.
• Ability to hear, communicate, and respond to customers and in-house employees clearly and cogently.
• Ability to handle very detailed work.
• Ability to walk, bend, lift, stretch, stoop, and perform overhead and lateral reaching tasks.
• Ability to stand for long periods.
• Ability to travel when necessary.
• Ability to work overtime as needed for production.
• Ability to interpret instructions or specifications, in verbal or written form, including those dealing with dimensions, quantity, and machine setup.
• Demonstrate understanding and application of standard, metric and pica measuring units.
• Demonstrate basic mechanical ability in order to understand machine setup, function, and troubleshooting.