Die Cutting Operator Trainee
TPC Printing & Packaging – Chattanooga, TN
Full-Time | Manufacturing
Position Summary
TPC Printing & Packaging is looking for a motivated individual to join our Converting Department as a Die Cutting Operator Trainee.
This is an entry-level training position with a defined path toward becoming a qualified Die Cutting Machine Operator. Previous die cutting or Bobst experience is preferred, but not required. We are looking for someone with a strong mechanical aptitude, dependable work habits, a willingness to learn, and the desire to build a long-term career in manufacturing.
Our trainees work directly alongside experienced operators to learn the operation, setup, troubleshooting, quality requirements, and safe operation of our die cutting equipment. As skills and knowledge develop, trainees will gradually take on more machine responsibilities with the goal of eventually operating their own machine.
What You Will Learn
During the training program, you will learn:
- Safe operation of industrial die cutting equipment
- Basic operation of Bobst die cutting presses
- Machine startup, shutdown, and operating procedures
- Proper job setup and make-ready procedures
- Loading and preparing jobs for production
- Understanding job tickets, layouts, samples, and production requirements
- Die installation and basic tooling knowledge
- Cutting, creasing, embossing, and other converting processes
- Maintaining proper register throughout a production run
- Performing required quality inspections and production checks
- Identifying common machine and tooling problems
- Basic troubleshooting and problem solving
- Proper material handling and load movement
- Production documentation and job reporting
- Preventive care, cleaning, and good housekeeping practices
- Proper shift-to-shift machine and job handoffs
Primary Responsibilities
While learning the equipment, trainees are also expected to support the overall operation of the department. Responsibilities include:
- Assist assigned machine operators throughout the shift
- Stage materials, dies, tooling, and supplies for upcoming jobs
- Move loads and materials safely throughout the department
- Remove trash, scrap, and waste from production areas
- Keep machines and surrounding work areas clean and organized
- Assist with job changeovers and make-readies
- Help maintain an orderly die and tooling area
- Provide operational support where needed throughout the department
- Learn and follow all safety, quality, and production procedures
- Report to the assigned work area on time and prepared for proper shift handoff
- Perform other duties as needed while progressing through the training program
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate will:
- Be mechanically inclined and comfortable working around industrial equipment
- Have a strong desire to learn a skilled trade
- Be dependable and maintain good attendance
- Arrive on time and ready to work
- Follow instructions and established procedures
- Pay close attention to detail and product quality
- Be willing to ask questions and learn from experienced operators
- Take ownership of assigned responsibilities
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment
- Work well as part of a production team
- Be willing to perform support and housekeeping duties while learning the trade
- Demonstrate the initiative and work ethic necessary to progress into an operator position
Previous experience operating manufacturing equipment, working in maintenance, printing, packaging, converting, or another mechanical/industrial environment is a plus, but not required.
Physical Requirements
This position works in an active manufacturing environment and requires the ability to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods
- Bend, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive movements
- Safely lift and handle materials and tooling associated with production
- Work around moving industrial equipment
- Follow all required PPE and safety procedures
Career Progression
This position is designed to be the starting point of an operator career path within our Converting Department.
Employees can progress through our operator classifications as they demonstrate the required skills, knowledge, quality, attendance, safety, and ability to work independently:
Trainee → Assisted Operator → Qualified Operator → Expert / Trainer
Advancement is based on demonstrated ability — not simply time in the position.
A successful trainee will gradually progress from assisting an experienced operator, to performing portions of machine setup and operation, to running jobs with assistance, and ultimately to becoming responsible for their own machine and production.
About TPC Printing & Packaging
TPC is a family-owned printing and packaging company with more than 100 years of history. Our operation serves a diverse customer base across folding carton and rigid packaging markets.
Our Converting Department operates multiple Bobst die cutting and foil stamping presses along with advanced finishing technologies. As our operation continues to grow, we are focused on developing the next generation of skilled operators from within.
For someone who wants to learn a trade, develop technical skills, and build a career in manufacturing, this position offers a genuine opportunity to grow.
We aren't simply looking for someone to fill a helper position. We're looking for someone who wants to learn how to become an operator.
Pay: From $21.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
