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Folder Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Press Operator

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$22.30 - $23.41/hr

Press Operator is responsible to safely operate, set up, and care for the printing press machines ... ARTWORK, PLS, WO, SEPARATIONS and COLOR MASTER FOLDER. * Must have a clear understanding of how to ...

Works with new patient/new referral imaging folder. * Loads insurance plan and coordination of ... Basic knowledge of and skills using MS Windows, MS Office Suite and/or similar operating/software ...

Works with new patient/new referral imaging folder. * Loads insurance plan and coordination of ... Basic knowledge of and skills using MS Windows, MS Office Suite and/or similar operating/software ...

Works with new patient/new referral imaging folder. * Loads insurance plan and coordination of ... Basic knowledge of and skills using MS Windows, MS Office Suite and/or similar operating/software ...

Works with new patient/new referral imaging folder. * Loads insurance plan and coordination of ... Basic knowledge of and skills using MS Windows, MS Office Suite and/or similar operating/software ...

Organize and maintain the job folder system. * Maintain the production board with up-to-date ... Train operators on safe operating procedures. * Direct maintenance employees in emergency ...

Organize and maintain the job folder system. * Maintain the production board with up-to-date ... Train operators on safe operating procedures. * Direct maintenance employees in emergency ...

Perform all tasks associated with LRP folder activities * Properly execute BMS activities involving ... Minimum of 3 years performing tasks as Operator Technician III or equivalent title (pull/set molds ...

Perform all tasks associated with LRP folder activities * Properly execute BMS activities involving ... Minimum of 3 years performing tasks as Operator Technician III or equivalent title (pull/set molds ...

Speaks openly with Operators to stop production of defective bags immediately. Inspects product to ... If you do not find the email in your inbox, please check your spam folder or add the address no ...

Showing results 21-40

Folder Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do folder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for folder operator in Chicago, IL is $21.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

The highest paid machine operators are often those working in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or manufacturing, with salaries exceeding $70,000 annually. Senior roles, those with advanced certifications, or operators of complex machinery like CNC machines tend to earn the highest wages.

What is the job description of a folder operator?

A folder operator is responsible for operating folding machines to assemble printed materials such as brochures, flyers, or mailers. They set up and monitor the equipment, ensure quality standards, and troubleshoot jams or malfunctions. Attention to detail and familiarity with printing or finishing equipment are important for this role.

What Does a Folder Operator Do?

As a folder operator, your job duties involve working a machine that folds, slits, or scores printed sheets to prepare them for binding. In addition to running the folding, perforating, and cutting equipment and ensuring correct production, your responsibilities may include system set-up for each job including setting rollers, cutters, glue applications, and perforation equipment. You need to be at the machine during the folding run to make adjustments if necessary. You also load sheets into the folder.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Folder Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Folder Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with industrial folding machines, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Proficiency with production machinery, basic computer systems, and, in some cases, certifications in machine operation or safety are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under deadlines are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that production runs smoothly, output quality is maintained, and safety standards are upheld in a manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Folder Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectFolder OperatorMaterial Handler
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in machinery operationHigh school diploma, forklift certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, manufacturing plants, packaging facilitiesWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing sites
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, packaging companiesLogistics, warehousing, distribution industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Folder Operator and a Material Handler lies in their specific roles. A Folder Operator primarily manages folding and packaging machinery, focusing on preparing products for shipment. In contrast, a Material Handler handles the movement, storage, and organization of materials within a facility. Both roles are essential in warehouse and manufacturing environments, but they require different skill sets and focus areas.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Folder Operator typically earns less than $4,000 weekly, but high-paying jobs that do not require a degree include roles such as commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which often rely on experience, certifications, or licenses. These positions may involve specialized skills, certifications, or licensing but do not necessarily require a college degree.

What are Folder Operators?

Folder Operators are skilled workers who operate folding machines in printing or paper processing industries. Their primary responsibility is to set up, adjust, and maintain machines that fold paper, sheets, or printed materials into prescribed configurations. They ensure proper machine function, monitor quality, and may troubleshoot or perform minor repairs. Folder Operators play a critical role in producing brochures, booklets, mailers, and other folded products efficiently and accurately.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Jobs that can pay $500,000 or more annually include high-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as successful entrepreneurs, top-tier surgeons, and certain specialized professionals like investment bankers and hedge fund managers. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve significant responsibility or ownership stakes.

What are some common challenges faced by Folder Operators and how can they be managed?

Folder Operators often encounter challenges such as handling machine jams, maintaining consistent paper quality, and meeting tight production deadlines. These issues can be managed by performing regular maintenance checks, promptly addressing minor mechanical problems, and communicating closely with team members on the production floor. Developing strong troubleshooting skills and staying organized helps Folder Operators minimize downtime and ensure smooth workflow, which is highly valued in fast-paced printing or packaging environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Folder Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Folder Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Folder Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Folder Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Folder Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Folder Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Folder Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,348 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Press Operator

Press Operator

PPC Flex

Buffalo Grove, IL • On-site

$22.30 - $23.41/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


PPC Flex rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Summary:

Press Operator is responsible to safely operate, set up, and care for the printing press machines and direct the press assistants to ensure continuous improvements in customer satisfaction.


Essential Functions:

Under the supervision and direction of the Department Manager, to successfully perform this job, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily:

  • Read and follow daily press schedule to meet daily production needs.
  • Legibly and accurately record activities on required documentation and in the daily activities log books.
  • Set up and record run condition reports for each job completed.
  • Properly and safely use all tools necessary to set up each job as efficiently and with as little waste as possible.
  • Read and understand customer order and artwork.
  • Track all setup, downtime and run time on the production report and by using Axapta or shop floor.
  • Accurately scan and process all materials going on and coming off of the machine
  • Run the order as quickly and efficiently as quality allow.
  • Mark or flag all press stops, splices and misprints during the run and keep an accurate Flag report for each roll.
  • Remove and properly dispose of all flying splices and defects on rewind position or master roll.
  • Monitor print quality during the run using the auto defect detection system. (AVT SYSTEM)
  • Responsible for the cleanliness of the press and the area around the press.
  • Report any and all mechanical issue he encounters during the shift.
  • Regular attendance is required
  • Prepare and direct press assistant in the staging of the next job.
  • Help train and teach in any or all of his responsibilities.

Monitor and hold assistant accountable for their responsibilities.

Other tasks or projects as required by manager.


REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:

  • Ability to grasp and understand product layout sheets and how to read artwork.
  • Operator must understand the difference between good and bad print based off of all provided materials: ARTWORK, PLS, WO, SEPARATIONS and COLOR MASTER FOLDER.
  • Must have a clear understanding of how to use the quality checklist and of its importance.
  • Must understand the Spectro densitometer
  • Must have a clear understanding of the company’s digital work flow.
    • Understand with ability to perform, teach and direct the essential functions of all press positions.
    • Wide Web Flexographic Printing

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to propel self across multiple surfaces, including concrete, carpeting, and linoleum.
  • Standing 10 to 12 hours on solid surface, walking on uneven surfaces 10 to 12 hours; bending, kneeling, squatting 8 to 10 hours.
  • Reaching with arms up and down, side to side; use hands to finger, feel, or handle objects 12 hours.
  • Close vision, peripheral vision and depth perception with ability to discern color and texture; 10 to 12 hours.
  • Ability to hear warning bells and forklift engine; 12 hours

COGNITIVE REQUIREMENTS:

General: Must have good safety awareness and judgment. Effective time management skills with ability to multi-task, self-organize and prioritize tasks; high attention to detail with ability to meet deadlines; ability to work independently to reach goals and successfully partner with others to meet customer requirements; ability to obtain and maintain proficient knowledge of and capability with all tools, machines and software required to perform essential functions.

Computer Skills: Average ability to accurately type using a computer monitor and/or keyboard.

Language Ability: Spanish bilingual helpful, but not required. Ability to be understood when speaking English, listen to and understand spoken English; read and interpret customer specifications written in English. Ability to write daily logs in English. Ability to speak effectively to communicate quality concerns or production issues.

Math Ability: Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals to ensure proper measurements before/after production.

Reasoning Ability: Able to apply common sense understanding to carry out multiple instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Able to deal with problems involving several variables.

Work Environment: The noise level in the work environment is moderately noisy. Must have the ability to wear required Personal Protective Equipment when required to be in production areas, including hair/beard net, cutting gloves and safety glasses, as appropriate. Must be able to stand or walk 75% or more of workday. Must have ability to work in a hot or cold environment around ink or chemicals with protection.


The requirements below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the Essential Functions.



EDUCATION and WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required

At least 5+ years of wide web flexographic printing experience required


6pm - 6:30am

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