Vacuum Metallization Operator

Employer: Direct hire with ITW (Illinois Tool Works) – ShineMark, North America

Location: Bloomfield, CT 06002

Schedule & Pay: 2nd shift, Monday–Friday, 2:00 pm–10:00 pm. Base pay $22.00–$23.00/hour depending on experience, plus $0.75/hour 2nd-shift differential. Overtime required 1–2 weekends (Saturday and Sunday) about 1–2 times per month.

A day in this role

You’ll start the afternoon by reviewing the production schedule and planning upcoming changeovers on the metallizer. With a quick systems check at the control panel, you’ll bring the machine online, align rollers and boats using hand tools, and thread the film through the web path. As the run begins, you’ll fine-tune wire feeds and line speed to hit exact specifications, watching for any variation and correcting it in real time.

Throughout the shift, you’ll set up the line to apply metallization and design patterns on different films, rewind finished rolls, and handle materials using carts and pallets. You’ll measure, test, and document quality using established procedures and testing equipment—making clear pass/fail calls and looping in supervisors or technical support when something doesn’t look right.

Between jobs, you’ll clean the machine and parts thoroughly; on some equipment, this can involve confined-space entry. You’ll also operate a forklift/fork truck to move parts and product safely.

What you’ll handle

• Start/stop the metallizer via the control panel; execute changeovers per schedule
• Align/fasten components (rollers, boats) with hand tools
• Thread film; adjust wire feed, product speed, and line speed
• Perform setups for metallization and design imprinting; rewind finished rolls
• Inspect, measure, and test product to specification; follow QA procedures and document results
• Clean equipment between runs; confined space entry may be required (machine specific)
• Material handling: load, unload, pack, transport via carts and pallets
• Operate and drive a forklift/fork truck

Also part of your scope

• Use computer systems to print run sheets and labels and record QA results
• Follow solvent and hazardous material handling procedures
• Learn product codes, color numbering, and jumbo tag systems
• Cross-train with other teams and assist operators as needed
• Record production quantities per SOPs and job orders; perform in-process quality checks

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Manufacturing experience and/or strong mechanical aptitude preferred

Core competencies

• Intermediate computer literacy
• Excellent attention to detail; clear verbal and written communication
• Willingness to learn; flexibility to support other departments within ITW ShineMark, NA
• Familiarity with 5S is helpful (not required)
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, demanding environment

Physical and environmental demands

• Frequent standing and walking for visual inspections; sit as needed
• Regular climbing of ladders and stairs; reaching with hands and arms
• Ability to hear machinery and mobile equipment and communicate with coworkers
• Respiratory clearance exam and respirator use as needed
• Lift, push, pull, and move up to 85 lbs
• Campus is 100% non‑smoking; agreement to comply is required

Tools and technology you’ll use

• Metallizer machine and control panel
• Slitting and rewinding equipment
• Quality testing instruments
• Forklift/fork truck and carts
• Hand tools
• Computer equipment
• PPE and respirators

Benefits

• Sick time
• Vacation Time
• Holidays
• Health, Dental and Vision
• 401K with company match
• Employee Discount Programs

Grow your career

Join a hands-on, supportive team and build real manufacturing expertise. If you’re motivated, dependable, and eager to learn, apply today.