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Guillotine Cutter Operator Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Programs the channels of the guillotine cutter to store the proper settings to execute the job ... QUALIFICATIONS: * 5 years of experience setting-up and operating roll-fed continuous folding ...

Reprocessing Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Properly and safely operates the Gaylord Lifter, Conveyor Belts, Guillotine, Metal Detectors ... Understands adjustment and set up of screw and cutter blade speed settings, properly and safely ...

Reprocessing Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Properly and safely operates the Gaylord Lifter, Conveyor Belts, Guillotine, Metal Detectors ... Understands adjustment and set up of screw and cutter blade speed settings, properly and safely ...

Guillotine Cutter Operator information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do guillotine cutter operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for guillotine cutter operator in Elgin, IL is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a guillotine cutter operator?

Guillotine Cutter Operators are skilled professionals who operate guillotine cutting machines to trim, cut, or shape materials such as paper, cardboard, or plastic sheets. They are responsible for setting up the machine, adjusting cutting specifications, and ensuring precise cuts according to job requirements. Operators must also inspect finished products for quality, maintain equipment, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. This role is commonly found in printing, packaging, and manufacturing industries.

What is the difference between Guillotine Cutter Operator vs Paper Cutter Operator?

AspectGuillotine Cutter OperatorPaper Cutter Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, binding facilitiesPrint shops, publishing houses
Industry UsagePrinting, binding, packagingPrinting, publishing, graphic arts
Job FocusOperating large guillotine cutters for precise cutsOperating various paper cutting machines

The Guillotine Cutter Operator and Paper Cutter Operator roles are similar, both involving cutting paper in print and publishing industries. The main difference lies in the equipment used; Guillotine Cutter Operators typically handle large, industrial guillotine machines for precise, high-volume cuts, while Paper Cutter Operators may work with smaller, manual or semi-automatic cutters. Both roles require similar skills and training, making them closely related in the printing and publishing sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a guillotine cutter operator?

To thrive as a Guillotine Cutter Operator, you need a solid understanding of print production processes, precise measurement, and manual dexterity, often supported by on-the-job training or vocational education. Familiarity with industrial guillotine cutting machines, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer-controlled cutting systems is important. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for ensuring accuracy and working within a team. These competencies are crucial for maintaining product quality, minimizing waste, and ensuring a safe, efficient workflow in print or packaging environments.

What are some common challenges guillotine cutter operators face when working with different types of materials?

Guillotine Cutter Operators often encounter challenges when working with a variety of materials, such as paper, cardboard, or plastic. Each material may require different blade settings, cutting speeds, and handling techniques to ensure precise and clean cuts. Adjusting equipment for thickness and grain direction is crucial, as improper setup can lead to material wastage or equipment damage. Operators also need to pay close attention to safety protocols due to the machinery's sharp blades and moving parts, making attention to detail and vigilance essential in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Guillotine Cutter Operator jobs in Elgin, IL?

For Guillotine Cutter Operator jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Guillotine Cutter Operator jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Guillotine Cutter Operator jobs in Elgin, IL are:

Infographic showing various Guillotine Cutter Operator job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,312 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

120" Guillotine Cutter Operator for 2nd Shift

Veritiv Corporation

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Purpose:

Our Cutter Operator is responsible for setting up, programming, operating, and maintaining the Cutter Machine and related material handling equipment to accurately trim printed and unprinted paper stock according to customer specifications and production schedules. This position ensures quality standards, productivity goals, and safety requirements are consistently met within a fast-paced printing manufacturing environment.

Job Responsibilities:

Review job tickets, layouts, impositions, and specifications to determine cutting requirements and production sequence.
Set up, program, and operate Cutter machine using computerized controls and cutting specifications to make sure each job is produced to customer specifications, meeting internal and external deadlines.
Load printed and unprinted paper stock onto cutter beds and material handling equipment and remove finished materials and transport products to the next production operation or shipping area.
Jog and align paper stacks to ensure accurate cutting and squareness.
Inspect finished materials for dimension accuracy, quality, defects, and consistency throughout production runs.
Complete production records, load tags, time sheets, and quality documentation.
Perform routine maintenance including blade changes, lubrication, cleaning, and inspection of cutter components and be able to troubleshoot machine issues and notify maintenance personnel when repairs are required.
Follow all company safety, lockout/tagout, and housekeeping procedures.

Additional Responsibilities & Qualifications:

Experience working on 120" Lawson & Saber Guillotine Cutters preferred

Able to perform basic mathematical calculations along with ability to read and understand written and verbal instructions, job jackets, press imposition, and rule-up sheets.

Measure stock and calculate cutting dimensions using scales, rulers, tape measures, and production documentation.

Must be mechanically inclined and have electronic and computer knowledge.

Ability to work independently as well as with a crew/team to coordinate work schedules to insure we maintain Company values while meeting our customer promises.

Work Experience:

Ability to work independently, successfully manage accounts, work under pressure, and adapt to changes in the work environment is essential. 1-3 years of related job experience.

Education:

High School Diploma/GED

Working Conditions:
The work environment for this position requires:
Regularly working in a non-climate-controlled warehouse where exposure to cold, heat, damp or humid conditions may occur.
Exposure to loud noise.
Exposure to dust, mechanical hazards, moving objects, and moving vehicles.

Physical Requirements:
The physical requirements listed below are representative of those needed to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
Ability to lift, twist and carry up 50 - 75 pounds, manipulate (push and pull) up to 160 pounds of product with material handling equipment and skids weighing up to 2,000 pounds utilizing pallet jack.
Walking/Standing - walk throughout the warehouse to complete customer orders. Stand when operating order picker or reach truck equipment and when operating cutter.
Sitting - sit only when driving sit-down material handling equipment.
Lifting - lift items weighing a few ounces up to 150 pounds with assistance .
Stooping - performed when filling orders or putting away products assigned to floor level locations. May bend at the waist.
Kneeling - kneel when filling orders or putting away products assigned to floor level locations.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job, and duties may change from time to time depending on our business needs.

What We Offer

  • Engaging and inclusive culture with employee-led Employee Resource Groups, Veritiv Cultural Alliance, recognition platform, etc.
  • Extensive training opportunities, professional development programs, career pathing, and mentorship opportunities.
  • Collaborative atmosphere with our customers and suppliers to create healthier, safer and more sustainable communities through our responsible operations and innovative solutions.
  • Healthcare benefits (including medical, dental, vision, and health savings account), life, AD&D, and disability insurance, 401k, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, and other fringe benefits.

About Veritiv

Together with its subsidiaries, Veritiv is the leading full-service provider of packaging solutions. Veritiv also provides JanSan, hygiene, print and publishing products and services. Veritiv serves customers in a wide range of industries, through team members around the world helping shape the success of its customers. For more information, visit www.veritiv.comand connect with the Company on LinkedIn.