Resume Tips for Flexo Operators, Converters, and Packaging Professionals: A Recruiter's Perspective

If you work in the printing or packaging world — whether you’re a flexo press operator, slitter/rewinder, die cutter, or even a production supervisor — you know how fast-paced this industry can be. But when it comes time to make a career move, many packaging professionals hit a wall when updating their resumes.

As a recruiter who specializes in placing skilled candidates in the printing and packaging industry, I've seen thousands of resumes — and I can tell you firsthand: a strong, clear resume can make a huge difference in landing interviews (and getting better offers).

Here are my top resume tips specifically for flexo operators, converters, and packaging professionals who want to stand out.

1. Include Your Equipment Experience

When a hiring manager looks at your resume, one of the first things they want to know is: What equipment have you worked on?

Be specific! Instead of saying:

"Experienced in running flexo presses"

Say something like:

"Operated Mark Andy 2200, Nilpeter FA-4, and Comco Commander narrow web flexo presses."

If you’ve worked on multiple types of equipment — flexo, digital, offset, finishing equipment — list them. It helps match you faster to the right roles.

2. Highlight Your Specialties and Materials

Beyond just the machine, what type of products or materials have you worked with?

Examples to include:

• Pressure-sensitive labels

• Shrink sleeves

• Flexible packaging (film, pouches)

• Folding cartons

• Paperboard, film, foil, etc.

Also, if you’ve worked with specific ink systems (UV, water-based, solvent), add that! It’s a big plus for certain employers.

3. Show Productivity and Quality Metrics (If You Can)

Numbers help tell your story. If you know them, add things like:

• Average setup/changeover time

• Daily or shift output (e.g., "produced 50,000 linear feet per shift")

• Waste reduction efforts ("reduced material waste by 10% through improved setups")

• Quality ratings, ISO certifications, or safety awards

Even simple metrics make you look like someone who understands the business side of manufacturing.

4. Keep the Resume Format Simple and Easy to Read

You don’t need a fancy design — clean and professional wins in manufacturing and production roles.

✅ Use bullet points.

✅ Keep font size between 10–12 pt.

✅ Stick to one or two pages (especially if you have under 15 years of experience).

✅ Include your name, phone number, email, and general location (city/state).

Pro Tip: Save your resume as a PDF so the formatting stays consistent when you send it out.

5. Include Certifications, Training, and Achievements

If you have:

• Forklift certification

• Lean Six Sigma training

• OSHA safety training

• Quality or inspection certifications

• Company awards (Employee of the Month, Safety Champion)

List them! These extras show you’re serious about your craft and your company.

6. Explain Job Changes (Briefly)

If you’ve had a few short stays at companies, that's not uncommon in this industry. Still, it's helpful to quickly explain if you:

• Moved because of plant closures

• Took relocation opportunities

• Were on short-term contracts

You don't have to write long paragraphs — a simple note like "(plant closure)" or "(relocated for spouse's job)" after a company name is enough to give clarity.

7. Tailor It When Possible

If you’re applying for a flexible packaging company, and you have flex-pack experience, highlight that on page one. If you’re applying to a narrow web label printer, and you’ve run Mark Andy presses, put that front and center.

Small tweaks to your resume can help you get noticed faster.

Final Thoughts

In today’s tight labor market, skilled flexo operators, converters, and packaging professionals are in high demand. Your resume doesn't have to be flashy — it just needs to tell your story clearly and show why you're a strong operator.

As a recruiter, when I see a resume that lays out equipment experience, materials handled, and a track record of quality production, it jumps to the top of my pile — and I know hiring managers feel the same way.

Take the time to update your resume now. Your next big opportunity could be right around the corner. At Flexo Finders & Print Pack Careers, we can help you create a resume to help you stand out in the crowd. Contact us today at: support@printpackcareers.com