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Gluer Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Production Worker

Sandston, VA · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

* Catch and inspect product for quality. * Assist machine operator/apprentice in changeover and clean up (press, gluer, or slitter). * Palletize product accurately and fill out palletizer reports as ...

Technician - Gluing - Night

Richmond, VA

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

* The Gluer Technician is responsible for evaluating, recommending, and improving operational ... This role manages equipment operators and leads process improvement efforts ensuring optimal ...

Gluer Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$21

$28

How much do gluer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for gluer operator in Virginia is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Gluer Operator vs Packaging Machine Operator?

AspectGluer OperatorPackaging Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or printing facilities, operating gluing equipmentManufacturing, operating various packaging machinery
Industry UsagePrinting, box manufacturing, paper productsFood, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals

Both roles involve operating machinery in manufacturing settings, often requiring similar certifications and training. Gluer Operators focus on applying adhesives to assemble products like boxes or cartons, while Packaging Machine Operators handle machines that fill, seal, or package products. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit within manufacturing industries.

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

Jobs that can pay $500,000 or more annually in the US typically include high-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized professions like top surgeons, successful entrepreneurs, and certain investment bankers. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes ownership or equity stakes in companies.

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

To thrive as a Gluer Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience in operating and maintaining folder gluer machines, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specific machinery such as Bobst or Jagenberg gluers, and the ability to read blueprints or job specifications, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help address production issues and ensure quality output. These skills ensure efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and maintain high-quality standards in packaging production.

What are some common challenges Gluer Operators face during high-volume production runs?

Gluer Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, adhesive inconsistencies, and maintaining quality standards during high-speed production. These issues require quick troubleshooting skills and close attention to detail to prevent costly downtime or product defects. Collaborating closely with maintenance technicians and quality control teams is essential to resolve problems efficiently and ensure production targets are met. Regular preventive maintenance and clear communication with team members help mitigate these challenges and keep the production line running smoothly.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

Among machine operators, gluer operators tend to have higher earning potential when working in industries like packaging and printing, especially with specialized skills or certifications. The highest-paid machine operators often work in manufacturing sectors with advanced machinery and may earn over $50,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

What are Gluer Operators?

Gluer Operators are skilled workers in the packaging or printing industry who operate machines that apply adhesive to products, such as paperboard cartons, to assemble and seal them. They set up, monitor, and adjust gluing machinery to ensure products are accurately glued according to specifications. Gluer Operators are responsible for quality control, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting any issues with the equipment during production. Their role is essential to ensuring that packaging materials are securely constructed for shipping and handling.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule in the context of a Gluer Operator job typically refers to a probationary period of three months during which an employee's performance and fit for the role are evaluated. Successful completion of this period may lead to permanent employment, benefits, or further training. It is common for employers to use this period to assess skills such as machine operation, safety compliance, and quality control.

What does a gluer operator do?

A gluer operator is responsible for operating machinery that applies adhesive to assemble boxes, cartons, or packaging materials. They set up, monitor, and maintain the equipment to ensure proper gluing and quality control, often working in manufacturing or packaging environments. Attention to detail and knowledge of safety procedures are important in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Gluer Operator jobs in Virginia? For Gluer Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Gluer Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Gluer Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Gluer Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Full Time, 84% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 25% Physical, 15% Hybrid, and 60% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,315 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Folder Gluer Operator 1st Shift

Folder Gluer Operator 1st Shift

Pratt Industries

Sandston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Pratt Industries rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 107 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Position: Folder Gluer Operator

Shift: 1st

Location: Richmond, VA

Job Type: Full Time, Hourly

Perks of Pratt:

Within 1 Month: Eligible for insurance benefits

At 3 Months: 401k with partial match

At 6 Months: Paid vacation days

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Unbox your career, click apply to start the process!

Job Description

Overview:

  • Responsible for all activities associated with running the folder gluer, including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Accurate and efficient set-up of all folding and gluing operations of the machine in accordance with proper setup techniques.
  • Minimize waste of sheet stock and glue.
  • Properly operate machine to run efficiently and produce quality products.
  • Ensure diagonal and corrugator scores are broken when necessary.
  • Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed.
  • Assist in training all Post job positions.
  • Learn to run a variety of box styles.
  • Check the quality of boxes during the run, including: mis-slotted boxes, loose liner, misprints, and any other defects.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data.
  • Turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
  • Adheres to the production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality and service goals. Reports any unusual scheduling issues to the Supervisor.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Additional duties may be assigned by management.

Qualifications:

  • Must be able to learn and assist in mechanical set up.
  • Must be able to help troubleshoot problems and assist in necessary repairs.
  • Must have a working knowledge of the following:
    • Current production software
    • Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation
    • Product layouts and production specifications
    • Product quality specifications
    • Quality standards

Required Skills:

  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Able to read and follow instructions on factory masters.
  • Intermediate computer skills
  • Strong math/algebra skills
  • Problem solving and critical thinking

Educational & Experience Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Candidates are PREFERRED who offer the following:
    • Prior work experience in the corrugated industry.
    • 6 months experience in the Press and Finishing Department.
    • 6 months experience operating a Folder Gluer.

Physical Demands:

  • The employee is regularly required to walk and talk and hear.
  • The employee is frequently required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit.
  • Vision requirements include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

  • Work space is not climate controlled and can reach both hot and cold extremes (30 degrees - 110 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Performance Measurements:

  • Operating standards - the employee will need to meet or exceed the Operating Standards in the areas of quality, cost, safety, customer satisfaction and productivity. Such standards will be set annually and communicated to the employee.
  • Personal growth - while the company will provide the tools to assist the employee to grow professionally the responsibility for moving forward lies with the individual. Each year there will be goals developed and agreed to by the employee and his/her superior.
  • Employee relations - through observations the employee will be evaluated regarding his/her behaviors associated with appropriate human interaction, respect and communication.
  • Creativity - this will be evaluated by how active the employee is in participating in advancing the business through new and innovative ideas.

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 7,500 highly skilled employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than a dozen states. The company operates three of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by "harvesting the urban forest."
Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.


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