Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Slicing Machine Operator
What slicing machine operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a slicing machine operator?
Review orders. From there, the day usually includes set up cutters, set widths and depths, and feed material. Full time, often shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a slicing machine operator working full time.
- Review orders.
- Set up the slitter.
- Run film rolls.
- Measure widths.
- Change blades.
- Run a new job.
- Clean and log.
Where slicing machine operators work
Operators work in food, paper, film and stone plants.
Hours and schedule
Full time, often shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Set up cutters
- Set widths and depths
- Feed material
- Monitor cuts
- Check sizes
- Change blades
- Clean machines
Tools you’ll use every day
- Slitters
- Slicers
- Die cutters
- Calipers
- Blade tools
- Roll lifts
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- No degree needed
- Steady demand
- Training provided
- Clear tasks
What’s hard
- Blade hazards
- Repetitive
- Shift work
- Noise
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like machines
- I’m careful around blades
- I like measuring
- I can work shifts
- I want steady work
- I don’t need a degree
Not sure? Take the free Slicing Machine Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Lock out for blade changes
- Wear cut gloves
- Use guards
- Follow sanitation in food plants