Die Cutting Operator

Die Cutting Operator

Job Title: Die Cutting Operator
Location: Sturgis, Michigan
Status: Full-Time

Position Summary
The Die Cutting Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring die-cutting equipment used to convert printed sheets into accurate, high-quality folding cartons and related packaging components. This role supports production efficiency, material yield, and quality by ensuring cut, crease, blanking, and stripping operations meet customer specifications, internal quality standards, and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate die-cutting equipment to process printed sheets into folding cartons and other specialty packaging components.
• Read and interpret job tickets, production specifications, layouts, and tooling requirements to confirm proper setup, stock orientation, and finished dimensions.
• Install and adjust dies, stripping units, blanking tools, and related machine components to achieve clean cuts, accurate creases, and consistent registration.
• Monitor machine performance throughout production runs and make adjustments to pressure, alignment, feed, and delivery settings to maintain output quality.
• Inspect finished work for defects such as incomplete cuts, poor stripping, cracking, scuffing, misalignment, and dimensional inaccuracies.
• Support blanking processes that help convert printed sheets into foldable cartons efficiently and reduce manual stripping time.​
• Work with in-house tooling and production support teams to verify die readiness, troubleshoot tooling concerns, and maintain efficient changeovers.​
• Perform line clearance, setup verification, and in-process quality checks in accordance with company procedures and customer requirements.
• Maintain accurate production records, downtime logs, scrap reporting, and job completion documentation.
• Complete routine machine cleaning, lubrication, preventive maintenance checks, and minor troubleshooting to reduce downtime and support safe operation.
• Coordinate with press, finishing, quality, and supervisory teams to resolve production issues and keep work flowing through the plant.
• Follow all safety, housekeeping, quality, and standard operating procedures in the manufacturing environment.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of experience operating die-cutting, converting, or related packaging equipment in a printing or manufacturing environment preferred.
• Ability to read job jackets, production orders, measurements, and technical specifications accurately.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform setups, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting on converting equipment.
• Understanding of folding carton production, sheet handling, die-cutting tolerances, and quality inspection practices.
• Ability to use measuring tools and conduct visual quality inspections with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks, and lift materials or tooling as needed.
• Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and weekends based on production demands.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating blanking die-cutters in a folding carton or specialty packaging environment.​
• Familiarity with in-house die tooling workflows, Gerber CAD/CAM-supported tooling environments, or related converting operations.​
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments with ISO 9001:2015, CGMP, or similarly controlled quality systems.
• Prior experience working with packaging for healthcare, consumer, or premium branded products.

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to maintain throughput while meeting tight dimensional and visual standards.
• Solid troubleshooting and machine setup skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork across production departments.
• Dependable work habits and consistent adherence to safety and quality expectations.

HRforGrowth is an extension of the Growth Catalyst Group (GCG), a partnership of companies with more than 65 years of operating experience and a history of successfully serving customers across industries and disciplines.
GCG® is one of the world’s leading providers of business transformation solutions related to supply chain and technology solutions for order fulfillment and marketing execution. We are committed to an inclusive workplace that does not discriminate against race, nationality, religion, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity. We believe in diversity and encourage any qualified individual to apply. We are an EEOC Employer.