Automated Production Equipment Operator

About Bell and Howell

Bell and Howell delivers technology-driven Automation Services and Automation Solutions that help businesses optimize performance, reduce downtime, and improve customer experiences.

Our Automation Services bring a dedicated team of expert mechatronic service engineers completely covering North America and backed by our Integrated 360 advanced technology enabling remote repair, diagnostics, automated SmartOps Dispatch and 24/7/365 technical assistance for our clients. We provide a comprehensive and certified level of support for thousands of diversified clients.

Our Automated Solutions product portfolio consists of next-generation equipment delivering best-in-class performance enhancing workflow efficiency and elevating customer experiences across multiple markets including retail, pharmaceuticals, packaging, mail production, ecommerce and manufacturing – all backed by the best service in the industry.

Title: Automated Production Equipment Operator

Location: Troutdale, Oregon | Night shift 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Alternating schedule: four days on and three days off one week; three days on and four days off the next.

Printing experience is not required. We will train a dependable person with mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn industrial equipment.

Position Summary

The Automated Production Equipment Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring an automated production line that incorporates industrial digital printing, paper handling, web transport, cutting, folding, stacking, and material-handling systems.

The Operator follows established production procedures and specifications, monitors product quality and equipment performance, identifies changes or abnormalities in machine operation, and works closely with the on-site technical team to help maintain safe, accurate, and efficient production.

This position reports to the District Service Supervisor and has no supervisory responsibilities.

Job Responsibilities:

• Set up, operate, and monitor production equipment and computer-based machine controls in accordance with established procedures, customer requirements, and production specifications.
• Adjust operator-level machine settings and materials to meet production requirements.
• Perform routine quality checks to confirm finished products meet established specifications.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify unusual machine behavior, quality defects, production interruptions, and other operating concerns.
• Document observations and promptly escalate equipment malfunctions or technical issues to the Operator/Technician, supervisor, or appropriate service team.
• Perform assigned operator inspections, routine cleaning, and operator-level preventive maintenance within established training and authorization.
• Record production activity, downtime, quality concerns, equipment observations, and shift handoff information accurately.
• Assist with maintaining raw materials, supplies, and production staging areas as needed.
• Follow established production, quality, safety, and equipment operating procedures.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Work collaboratively with operators, technicians, supervisors, and other team members to support production objectives.
• Protect confidential customer and company information and documentation in accordance with established policies and procedures.

What You Will Bring:

• Mechanical aptitude and an interest in understanding how production equipment operates.
• Ability to recognize, describe, and respond appropriately to changes in equipment performance.
• Comfort using computers, software, touchscreen controls, and other computer-based production systems.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written procedures, diagrams, production schedules, specifications, and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to perform routine quality inspections.
• Sound judgment and a calm, methodical approach when production conditions change.
• Ability to communicate clearly with operators, technicians, supervisors, and other team members.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a small production team.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality, consistent with applicable company policies and legally protected leave requirements.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Six months or more of related manufacturing, production, machine-operation, or equipment experience preferred.
• Basic computer proficiency required.
• Previous experience operating industrial, production, or automated equipment is helpful but not required.
• Previous print or post-print processing experience is a plus but is not required.
• Mechanical aptitude and demonstrated ability to learn technical processes are strongly preferred.

Relevant experience may include:

• Manufacturing or production
• Machine operation
• Packaging equipment
• Warehouse or fulfillment automation
• Conveyor or material-handling systems
• Automotive or mechanical work
• Maintenance or facilities
• CNC or other computer-controlled machinery
• Bindery or commercial printing
• Technical or vocational training

Candidates without one of these specific backgrounds are still encouraged to apply if they demonstrate mechanical aptitude, reliability, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn industrial equipment.

Schedule and Work Environment:

This position works a rotating 12-hour night schedule from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with a 4-day workweek one week followed by a 3-day workweek the next.

Weekend, holiday, and overtime work may be required based on business and customer needs. Overtime will be administered and paid in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local wage-and-hour requirements.

Some travel may be required for training.

Work is performed in a production environment around large industrial machinery and moving equipment. Working conditions may include machinery noise, paper dust, cleaning products, and solvents used in accordance with established safety procedures.

Physical Requirements:

The physical requirements listed below represent the activities generally required to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

The position requires the ability to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods during a 12-hour shift.
• Use hands to handle, feel, and manipulate materials, controls, tools, and equipment.
• Reach, bend, and maintain balance while performing assigned duties.
• Occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, and/or crawl.
• Safely work around large machinery and moving equipment.
• Work in small or confined areas when required.
• Work at elevations up to ten (10) feet when required.
• Lift and carry up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Work in an environment with machinery noise, paper dust, cleaning products, and solvents.

Employees are expected to follow all established safety procedures, equipment operating requirements, and applicable workplace safety standards.

Other Duties

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of all duties, responsibilities, or activities required of the position. Duties and responsibilities may change based on business needs, consistent with applicable law.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Bell and Howell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on an individual's qualifications, ability, experience, and performance without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.