Fast Facts
The Assembly Label Coordinator at hand2mind will manage and improve label creation for efficient assembly operations, ensuring production-ready formats and timely delivery of materials.
Responsibilities: Create, manage, and improve labels and print files; transform customer-supplied files into production-ready formats; maintain strong communication with Assembly Leads and cross-functional teams; document workflows and propose improvements to the labeling process.
Skills: Experience with D365 F&O, InDesign, Adobe/Illustrator, MS Word & Excel; ability to communicate clearly in English; strong organizational skills; detail-oriented; self-motivated; bilingual in Spanish is a plus.
Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in assembly labeling; experience in creative and label-creation software; flexible availability for overtime as needed.
Location: Vernon Hills, IL; requires in-office presence.
Compensation: $25 - $26 / Hourly
About hand2mind:
For more than 60 years, hand2mind has inspired learning through play by creating hands‑on, classroom‑tested materials that help children learn by doing. We’re a growing, family-owned company recognized as a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and trusted by teachers and families alike. We create a wide range of educational products—classroom tools like Hands-on Standards®, consumer products for NumberBlocks®, and innovative items like our new BubblePlush™ Yoga Balls. If you’re curious, collaborative, and a kid at heart, you’ll feel right at home here. Join us in shaping the future of learning with our award-winning team!
Team & Position Description:
The Assembly Label Coordinator supports both Specialty and School customer groups by creating, managing, and improving all labels and print files required for efficient assembly operations. This role ensures customer‑supplied files are transformed into accurate, production‑ready formats and that all labels and shop documents are delivered on time to keep assembly lines running smoothly. Working closely with Assembly Leads and cross‑functional teams, the Coordinator maintains strong communication and rapid issue resolution across workflows. A key part of this role is owning and advancing our label creation program, using expertise in Adobe, InDesign, Label Matrix/Bartender, and D365 to drive standardization, quality improvements, and operational innovation. The Coordinator also serves as backup to the Assembly Coordinator to support continuity of documentation and material accuracy.
What We're Looking For (Key Performance Objectives):
Within 30 Days
- Learn all existing label formats, naming conventions, print workflows, file‑handling standards, and shop documentation processes while achieving 100% accuracy in handling customer‑supplied files.
- Become proficient in creative and label‑creation software (InDesign, Adobe, Illustrator, Label Matrix/Bartender) used to prepare and modify print‑ready files.
Within 60 Days
- Independently produce accurate, production‑ready labels and shop documents with zero delays to assembly lines, while maintaining label printers and printing equipment.
Within 90 Days
- Fully own the label creation program by documenting workflows, identifying recurring issues, and proposing improvements to templates, software configurations, or automation opportunities.
- Lead troubleshooting for BOM and material discrepancies, implementing preventative improvements to reduce downtime and recurring issues.
Within 6 Months
- Deliver a process improvement plan outlining innovations to the label creation workflow, including standardized templates, improved settings, automated steps, or streamlined file‑prep processes.
Within 12 Months
- Create a sustainable library of SOPs, templates, and troubleshooting guides that strengthens operational reliability and supports rapid training of future team members.
Requirements/Ideal Qualifications:
- Experience with D365 F&O, InDesign, Adobe/Illustrator, MS Word & Excel.
- Degree or equivalent experience in assembly labeling.
- Strong ability to follow instructions and communicate clearly in English (written and verbal).
- Able to work independently and collaboratively.
- Flexible availability including weekends/overtime as needed.
- Highly self‑motivated, organized, accountable, and detail‑oriented.
- Bilingual in Spanish is a plus but not required.
Physical Demands:
- Standing/walking up to 30% of the time
- Sitting up to 70% of the time
- Ability to lift to 40lbs.
We are a drug-free workplace and an EEO employer.
Please note: This role will be filled by our internal recruitment team, so no assistance is needed from any outside staffing agency at this time.
Compensation Range: $25.00 - $26.00 per hour – Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: years of experience, skill set and location. Total compensation includes profit sharing bonus potential, 401k matching, and a variety of other benefits (details can be found here).
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