Machine Operator

The Finishing Operator – Folder/Gluer Machine sets up, operates, and maintains folder/gluer equipment in a commercial printing environment to produce high-quality finished products on time and in a cost-effective manner. This role ensures that all finishing work meets strict customer, quality, safety, and compliance standards while supporting a collaborative, team-oriented production floor.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate folder/gluer machines to produce high-quality printing and finishing jobs that meet customer specifications and company standards.
• Perform make-ready on folder/gluer equipment and related finishing machinery, including die cutters, to ensure accurate and efficient production runs.
• Execute a variety of folds, including rotary fold hooks/back folds, 4- and 6-corner folds, and various pocket folds, according to job requirements and blueprints.
• Apply automated finishing solutions to various substrates, ensuring proper setup, alignment, and quality throughout the production process.
• Monitor production runs for quality, accuracy, and consistency, making adjustments as needed to maintain high standards and minimize waste.
• Complete and maintain accurate daily production records and data collection forms as required for tracking, compliance, and continuous improvement.
• Follow documented quality procedures, work instructions, and checklists, including ISO-based processes, to ensure compliance with company and customer requirements.
• Meet departmental standards for safety, quality, compliance, and customer requirements while working efficiently to meet strict deadlines.
• Communicate effectively with manufacturing personnel and other team members regarding job status, specifications, issues, and shift handoffs.
• Share any job-specific details, issues, or pertinent information with the next shift to support smooth transitions and consistent output.
• Keep jobs, work areas, and the production floor clean, organized, and free of hazards to support a safe and efficient work environment.
• Perform daily, monthly, and quarterly maintenance on folder/gluer machines and related finishing equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Follow written and oral instructions from team leaders and supervisors for finishing processes and production priorities.
• Assist in training new and temporary employees on finishing processes, machine operation, safety practices, and quality expectations.
• Attend department and company meetings to stay informed about processes, expectations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work overtime and weekends as business needs dictate to support production schedules and customer deadlines.
• Adhere to all company policies outlined in the employee handbook, including safety, conduct, and operational guidelines.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the overall manufacturing and finishing operations.

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience running a folder/gluer machine in a commercial printing environment.
• Proven experience operating Bobst folder/gluer or similar high-end finishing equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on machine operating skills in a production environment.
• Excellent eye for detail with a commitment to producing high-quality finished products.
• Ability to read and follow written and oral instructions, including job tickets and production specifications.
• Effective communication skills for working with manufacturing personnel and cross-functional production teams.
• Ability to multi-task and manage multiple jobs or priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Basic computer skills; ability to work with production-related software and data entry (knowledge of PSI is a plus).
• Ability to keep accurate and complete daily production and data collection records.
• Knowledge of and ability to perform rotary fold hooks/back folds, 4- and 6-corner folds, and various pocket folds.
• Ability to set up and perform make-readies on die cutters and related finishing equipment.
• Capability to set up and apply automated finishing solutions to various substrates.
• Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for prolonged periods during the shift.
• Ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to push and pull loaded pallet jacks and rolling carts safely.
• Consistent adherence to safety, quality, and compliance standards in a manufacturing environment.
• Motivated, positive attitude with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• At least 3 years of relevant experience in a print shop or commercial printing environment preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Experience working with printing presses, finishing, and general machine operation in manufacturing.
• Familiarity with production blueprints, job tickets, or similar documentation.
• Knowledge of ISO-style quality procedures and documentation practices.
• Experience in a production or manufacturing environment with emphasis on quality and process discipline.
• Willingness to cross-train on related finishing or printing equipment as needed.
• Ability to assist with training and mentoring new or temporary employees.
• Strong sense of ownership over equipment performance, maintenance, and product quality.

Employees join a stable, well-established commercial print and communications organization with a diverse client base and steady production demand, offering consistent work and long-term employment potential. The environment emphasizes skilled, hands-on work with advanced folder/gluer and finishing machinery on complex, high-quality jobs, allowing individuals to practice true craftsmanship rather than repetitive, low-skill tasks. A quality-first culture prioritizes rigorous standards, safety, and process discipline, enabling employees to take the time needed to do the job right. Team members work within collaborative production teams that value clear communication across shifts and departments, and experienced operators have the opportunity to mentor others. Skilled employees are recognized for their expertise and can pursue cross-training, take ownership of equipment, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, fostering both professional growth and a strong sense of value.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing and production environment initially located at a facility in Burlingame, California, with plans to move operations to a Hayward facility within approximately five to six months. The work takes place in a busy print and finishing plant that utilizes high-end folder/gluer machines, die cutters, printing presses, and related finishing and bindery equipment. Team members work on day or night shifts, with the expectation of overtime and weekend work as business needs require. The environment is hands-on, mechanical, and fast-paced, with close collaboration among operators, production staff, and leadership. Employees spend extended periods standing, walking, and operating machinery, and regularly handle materials and products that require lifting up to 50 pounds, with occasional lifting up to 75 pounds, as well as pushing and pulling pallet jacks and rolling carts. The production floor emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and safety, with adherence to documented quality procedures and company policies. Attire is typical for a manufacturing and printing facility, focusing on practicality and safety while working around machinery and production equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Burlingame, CA.

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $25.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Burlingame,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.