VITS Operator

Description

SUMMARY

The VITS Operator runs the near-line finishing system that turns printed rolls from the HP PageWide A2200 into accurate, in-sequence sheets ready for final cutting and mail processing. Most of this work is variable-data direct mail, so every sheet carries a unique record. The operator’s job is to keep the machine running efficiently while protecting sequence and count integrity from the first sheet of the roll to the last, and to hand off clean, tagged, correctly counted work to the cutting and mailing steps that follow.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Setup and roll handling

• Review the job ticket and schedule before each job: sheet size, roll count, sequence direction, and any special instructions.
• Stage, load, and splice printed rolls safely using the roll hoist and handling equipment; confirm the roll matches the job and part before mounting.
• Set up the VITS for each job — web path, cut length, slitting or trimming as required — and complete a make-ready check before running.
• Verify the first sheets against the job ticket and approved proof for size, cut position, and image registration before releasing the run.

Running the VITS

• Operate the VITS at the speed the job and substrate allow, monitoring cut accuracy, web tension, and delivery stacking throughout the run.
• Watch for print defects coming off the press (streaks, missing color, smearing, marks) and stop to escalate rather than cut through a bad section.
• Clear jams and misfeeds promptly and record any damaged or pulled sheets so records can be reprinted.
• Direct and coordinate the Material Handler so rolls, skids, and finished stacks keep moving without the machine waiting.

Sequence and count integrity

• Keep sheets in the correct order from the start of the roll to the end; never shuffle, re-stack, or combine stacks out of sequence.
• Check sequence numbers or record markers at the start, at each stack change, and at the end of every roll.
• Identify, pull, and log any spoiled, missing, or duplicate records, and report them to the lead or supervisor for reprint before the job moves on. Identify the portion of the skid where the spoiled material came from so the next operation is aware of missing pieces.
• Label every stack and skid with job number, part, roll number, and sequence range so downstream cutting and mailing can follow the order.

Data collection

• Record time and counts accurately in Pace for every job, in real time, using the VITS activity code
• Start and stop each transaction as the work actually starts and stops — no open entries left at breaks, job changes, or end of shift.
• Enter actual production counts, not estimates or planned quantities, and mark jobs complete only when the part is finished.

Material flow and handoff

• Move finished, tagged work to the cutter staging area in the order it will be cut, and communicate job status to the cutter operator.
• Keep the VITS area organized: incoming rolls staged by job, empty cores and waste removed, finished skids clearly separated from work in process.
• Flag schedule risks early — roll shortages, press delays, or reprints that will affect a mail date — to the lead or Bindery Manager.

Safety and maintenance

• Follow all lockout/tagout, guarding, and blade-handling procedures; never bypass a safety device.
• Perform daily cleaning and operator-level maintenance — blade and anvil checks, dust and trim removal, sensor cleaning — per the maintenance schedule.
• Report mechanical issues, unusual noise, or cut-quality drift immediately and document them for maintenance.
• Keep the work area clean and walkways clear, and wear required PPE at all times.

Requirements

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn machine setup, adjustment, and basic troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail, especially with numbers, sequence, and counts.
• Ability to read and follow job tickets, work instructions, and measurements accurately (to 1/16").
• Basic computer skills for data collection and job lookups.
• Reliable attendance and the ability to work steadily in a fast-paced production environment.

Preferred

• 1–2 years operating roll-fed finishing, sheeting, or cutting equipment in a commercial print or direct mail setting.
• Experience with variable-data or personalized mail, including sequence and record integrity.
• Familiarity with EFI Pace data collection.
• Forklift or roll-handling equipment certification.
• Bilingual English/Spanish.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING ENVIRONMENT 

• Stand and walk for the full shift; frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive hand motion.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs; move heavier rolls only with hoists and handling equipment.
• Work around moving machinery, sharp blades, and paper dust in a production environment with elevated noise levels.
• Hearing protection, safety shoes, and other required PPE must be worn in the work area.
• Overtime and schedule changes may be required to meet mail dates.

 BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K with company match, and other voluntary benefits offered

EEO STATEMENT

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and empowered to contribute their best work.