Once a job has been printed, the bindery helper takes over. The helper must be able to work with a variety of machines, first ensuring that they are in good working order. Most work is done by machine, so a bindery helper must be able to work with drilling, stitching, trimming, addressing and other binding machines.
Skills such as hand stitching and repair work might be required. They also might produce specialty designs for limited editions and other singular projects.
Bindery helper must have a keen eye for quality control. If a problem occurs, the operator must be able to halt production, repair and reset the equipment, and continue the project in a timely manner. A piece of equipment that is malfunctioning can raise production fees and cause other costly delays. Time management is also vital since many projects might be underway simultaneously.
Helpers begin by reading job tickets or work orders and setting up equipment according to project specifications. They work with other crew members to run the project and must be able to communicate effectively to coordinate efforts. Bindery helpers also track work through job specific forms.
Machines must be checked before and after each project for possible defects. They must be cleaned prior to being used on new projects. Bindery helpers also perform regularly scheduled maintenance checks on all equipment.
Bindery helpers spend much of their day standing. They also lift heavy weights, bend, stoop and perform repetitive tasks. The work environment is loud and a bindery helper might be required to wear protective gear.
Most bindery helpers begin with nothing more than a high school diploma or GED. They get experience through on-the-job training. Attitude is everything, and this position requires a patient and meticulous individual.