Lead Offset Softcover Bindery Associate

Job Description

Description:

BR Printers is built on a foundation of creativity, innovation, teamwork, and an entrepreneurial spirit. We are energetic and passionate, bringing our A-game to every task and interaction we come up against.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Offset Soft Cover Bindery Associate to join our team in Cincinnati, OH. This key role will oversee and execute the binding and finishing of softcover books, ensuring efficiency, quality, and consistency throughout the production process leading our second shift. The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical background in perfect binding, saddle stitching, and trimming, along with leadership experience in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities

Operate and oversee perfect binders, saddle stitchers, and three-knife trimmers with a focus on softcover book production.

Ensure high-quality binding by monitoring glue application, spine alignment, cover adhesion, and trim accuracy.

Lead a team of bindery operators, assisting with troubleshooting, training, and workflow optimization.

Work closely with pressroom, prepress, and shipping departments to ensure smooth production flow.

Maintain and calibrate binding and finishing equipment, coordinating with maintenance teams for repairs and preventive maintenance.

Implement process improvements to enhance production speed and minimize waste.

Ensure adherence to quality control standards and timely delivery of customer orders.

Monitor and optimize material usage, ensuring cost efficiency in paper, glue, and consumables.

Ensure all safety procedures are followed and adheres to safety guidelines for themselves and others.Requirements:

5+ years of experience in bindery operations, with expertise in softcover book binding.

Strong knowledge of Corona, Muller Martini, Kolbus, Wohlenberg, or similar perfect binding and saddle stitching equipment.

Experience with PUR and EVA glue application, three-knife trimming, and automated cover feeding.

Leadership experience, with the ability to train and mentor bindery associates.

Understanding of paper grain, folding mechanics, and binding durability requirements.

Commitment to safety protocols and preventive maintenance procedures.

Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under tight deadlines.

BR Printers offers a robust benefits package including competitive compensation, 401k match, health insurance, paid time off, and internal growth opportunities!