Stitcher Machine Operator

Salary Range: 25 to 32 (Currency: USD) (Pay period: per-hour-wage)

Job Description

Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Stitcher Machine Operator to join an established commercial printing and bindery operation near Mountainside, New Jersey. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, adjusting, and maintaining saddle stitching equipment to produce high quality booklets, catalogs, brochures, and other finished printed materials.

The ideal candidate will have experience operating Müller Martini saddle stitchers or similar equipment, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to troubleshoot machinery while maintaining production quality and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Set up, adjust, and operate saddle stitching equipment

Review job tickets, production specifications, and customer requirements

Prepare and load printed signatures into machine pockets in the proper sequence

Adjust stitching heads, feeders, trimmers, and related machine components

Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to maintain production efficiency

Inspect stitched books and signatures for accuracy and quality

Perform regular quality checks and continuity pulls throughout production runs

Identify and correct stitching, trimming, and gathering defects

Troubleshoot mechanical problems and equipment malfunctions

Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance

Minimize production downtime and material waste

Maintain accurate production records and quality documentation

Communicate equipment concerns or quality issues to supervisors

Coordinate with other bindery and production team members to meet scheduled deadlines

Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area

Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent

Experience operating saddle stitching equipment or similar commercial bindery machinery

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities

Understanding of commercial printing and finishing processes

Ability to read and interpret job tickets and production specifications

Strong attention to detail and quality control

Ability to identify and correct machine related production issues

Good communication and teamwork skills

Ability to work efficiently in a production environment

Reliable attendance and strong work ethic

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience operating Müller Martini saddle stitchers

Experience with Heidelberg Stitchmaster equipment

Knowledge of signature gathering, stitching, trimming, and booklet production

Experience with cutters, folders, collators, or other bindery equipment

Experience performing preventive maintenance and minor mechanical repairs

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods

Ability to lift and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds

Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and handling of printed materials

Ability to safely work around moving industrial equipment

Strong manual dexterity and visual accuracy

Benefits:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) with company match

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Referral program