About Lakeside Book Company
Lakeside Book Company is the largest book manufacturer in North America — and we love books. Every title we produce matters, and so does every hand that helps make it. Our people are at the heart of our success, and our mission is simple: Keep the world reading.
Our Safety Culture
The safety and health of our employees is this company’s most important business consideration. Lakeside Book will provide a safe and secure working environment to support our goal of zero accidents and injuries.
Lakeside Book commits to being good stewards of the environment by conducting environmentally responsible business practices while continuing to be good neighbors and partners in the communities in which we live and work.
Compensation & Premiums
- Starting Base Rate: $30.00 – $40.00/hour (Determined by industrial experience).
- Automation Skill Premium: Up to an additional $2.00/hour added directly to your base for proven PLC troubleshooting, diagnostics, or automation platform proficiency.
- Shift Premium: +$2.00/hour for designated off shifts.
Why Join Lakeside Book Company?
- Exceptional Stability: Our maintenance department boasts an annual turnover rate of under 5%. Technicians choose Lakeside for long-term career security, a supportive team culture, and an environment free from high-burnout automotive assembly lines.
- Earn More for Your Expertise: We value advanced skill sets. Our tiered pay structure allows you to maximize your hourly rate through verified PLC and automation competencies.
- Invested in Your Growth: Want to advance your craft? We provide company-funded technical training and certifications for high-demand platforms like Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation.
As an Industrial Electrician, you will:
- Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain complex production machinery, printing presses, automated packaging equipment, and building systems.
- Diagnoses and resolves electrical faults utilizing blueprints, schematics, and software diagnostics.
- Navigate and troubleshoot PLC systems (primarily Allen-Bradley/Rockwell) to minimize equipment downtime.
- Maintain, test, and calibrate three-phase motors, AC/DC drives, sensors, and safety circuits.
- Practice rigorous safety protocols, including LOTO (Lockout/Tagout) and compliance with NFPA 70E guidelines.
What We Look For
- Experience: 3+ years of electrical maintenance experience specifically within a manufacturing or industrial production environment.
- Technical Skills: Strong competency in reading schematics, using multi-meters, and diagnosing industrial control panels.
- Automation (Highly Preferred): Experience connecting to and troubleshooting via PLCs (Studio 5000 / RSLogix) pushes you directly into our senior wage tiers.
- Credentials: A formal Journeyman card or an Associate Degree in Electrical Technology is highly valued, but equivalent multi-year industrial work history is fully accepted.
- Schedule: Ability to work a 3-shift rotation and 12-hour shifts.
Benefits & Perks
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plan options.
- 401(k) retirement plan with an aggressive company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
- Company-provided uniforms, safety gear allowances, and tool insurance.
- Clean, well-lit, and structured manufacturing environment.
About Us:
Lakeside Book Company has been making books for over 150 years. Our books go into schools to educate children, land on the New York Times Best Sellers list to entertain our minds and go into bookstores to empower us to be better versions of ourselves every day. As the largest bookmaker in the United States, you will help craft books that end up in the hands of readers across the country.
Lakeside Book Company is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our goal is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants on an equal basis, regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected under federal, state or local law.
Discover What Makes Willard Special
With 68 years of history, Lakeside Book Company – Willard is one of our longest-standing facilities and home to over 540 dedicated employees. With a culture rooted in respect, growth, and pride, our Willard site continues to be a place where people build long and meaningful careers.
Located in Huron County, the area offers small-town charm with great outdoor and community experiences:
- Local favorites include the Huron County Fair, Holiday Parade, and nearby hiking and fishing spots
- A tight-knit community with deep roots and a welcoming spirit
- Great place to live and work, with strong schools and hometown pride
We Give Back to Our Community
Community connection is a big part of who we are:
- Host public events like Easter Egg Hunts, a Car Show, and Halloween Carnival
- Offer Pictures with Santa and volunteer lectures on leadership for local programs
- Stay involved and visible throughout the year in Huron County
We Celebrate and Support Our People
We prioritize wellness, fun, and recognition:
- Food Trucks, Pizza Days, Grilling Events, and our annual Golf Outing
- Flu Clinics, Financial Awareness sessions, and Wellness Days
- Friendly competitions like our OSU vs. Michigan Border Battle and employee picnics
What makes Willard truly stand out?
It’s the culture. Willard thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and employee well-being. With career development opportunities, competitive benefits, and a strong focus on work-life balance, our employees don’t just work here—they grow, connect, and thrive.
