Senior Operator

We're Not Just in the Packaging Business–We're in the "Wow" Business Pregis is Hiring! Why Join Pregis? Pregis is in the packaging business to protect what matters. We are committed to providing our customers and employees sustainable growth through purpose-driven innovation and customer-centric packaging solutions. If you are looking for a company that is thriving across various high growth industries and is innovative, customer focused, high integrity, believes in strong teamwork and collaboration, Pregis is the company for you. Check out the Pregis Purpose to learn how sustainability and social responsibility is at the very core of our company DNA. Job Title: Senior Operator Location: Elgin, IL Shifts Available: Night Shift | 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM Schedule: 2-2-3 Rotating Schedule Pay: $24.00 - $30.00 per hour, based on experience Sign-On Bonus: Up to $5,000 Lead Production. Solve Problems. Advance Your Career. Pregis is seeking an experienced Senior Operator to join our manufacturing team in Elgin, IL. This role is ideal for skilled machine operators with experience in converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, finishing, or related manufacturing environments who are ready to take on a leadership role. As a Senior Operator, you will lead production crews, operate advanced converting and finishing equipment, troubleshoot production issues, maintain quality standards, and help drive productivity across the operation. This position plays a critical role in ensuring customer orders are produced safely, efficiently, and to specification. At Pregis, we invest in employee development through structured training programs, technical skill development, and advancement opportunities. Many of our operators have grown into maintenance, supervisory, technical, and leadership positions throughout the organization. What You'll Do Production Leadership • Lead and support production crews to achieve safety, quality, and productivity goals • Provide direction and guidance during production runs • Promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement • Assist with training and development of operators and support team members • Ensure smooth communication and shift transitions between crews Machine Operation & Setup • Operate converting, printing, finishing, and ancillary production equipment • Review job tickets and production specifications before beginning production runs • Verify all materials and job components are available prior to startup • Set up and operate inline equipment with minimal supervision • Perform machine adjustments, changeovers, and production setups • Operate gluing systems, labeling equipment, Straub applicators, rotary cutters, and related equipment • Install and position cylinders and plates as required • Monitor print quality, registration, and production output Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement • Identify production issues and implement corrective actions • Perform minor mechanical adjustments and repairs • Troubleshoot line performance and equipment challenges • Continuously seek opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency • Support process improvement and operational excellence initiatives • Help establish best practices throughout the department Quality & Production Performance • Ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards • Monitor production, waste, and productivity metrics • Accurately record production quantities, materials, downtime, and job information • Maintain accurate line counts and production reporting • Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) • Maintain departmental quality and performance expectations Safety & Housekeeping • Follow all company safety procedures and PPE requirements • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment • Support departmental housekeeping standards • Ensure compliance with all workplace policies and safety requirements • Promote a strong safety-first culture What We're Looking For • Strong leadership and production floor experience • Ability to lead crews and support efficient machine operations • Advanced machine setup, troubleshooting, and operating skills • Strong mechanical aptitude • Ability to read and interpret job tickets and production specifications • Experience maintaining productivity, waste, and quality standards • Excellent communication and teamwork skills • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement Preferred Experience Candidates with experience in any of the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply: • Converting operations • Packaging manufacturing • Direct mail production • Printing operations • Flexographic printing • Inline finishing equipment • Rotary cutting systems • Gluing systems • Labeling equipment • Web handling systems • Production changeovers and setups • Mechanical troubleshooting • Manufacturing team leadership • Production KPI management Physical Requirements • Frequent standing, walking, and stooping • Frequent lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds • Ability to work 12-hour shifts • Ability to work around moving production equipment • Occasional computer and keyboard use Work Environment • Manufacturing production facility • Exposure to moving machinery and equipment • Indoor work environment • Temperatures may exceed 90°F • Humidity levels may exceed 80% • Noise levels may exceed 85 dB • Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Education & Experience • High School Diploma or GED required • 5-7 years of converting, printing, packaging, direct mail, manufacturing, or related production experience preferred • Experience operating inline finishing and converting equipment preferred • Experience with machine setup, troubleshooting, and production leadership preferred • Mechanical repair and adjustment experience highly desirable Why Join Pregis? • Up to $2,500 sign-on bonus • Competitive pay • Medical, dental, and vision benefits • 401(k) with company match • Paid time off and holidays • Paid training and development opportunities • Career advancement pathways • Stable and growing manufacturing environment • Safety-focused culture • Opportunity to develop advanced technical and leadership skills #MSI Diversity and Inclusion We believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome. Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis’ culture and achievements. Visit us at www.pregis.com for more information about Pregis LLC.