Jobs › Sonoco

Spiral Technician I

Sonoco · Neenah, WI · $25.33–$34.91 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 3, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

This entry-level role runs spiral winding machines to make paper cores and tubes. Have you run any production machinery before?

What they are checking: Whether they have basic machine experience or show they can learn it safely with training.

The role grows from Technician I to II and III. What would you want to learn to move up?

What they are checking: Whether they want to build skills over time, which matters for a job with a clear progression.

Tell me about a time you followed a procedure even when you thought a shortcut would be faster.

What they are checking: Whether they stick to standard work, which keeps both people and product safe.

Tell me about a time you noticed a problem at work and reported it.

What they are checking: Whether they speak up early rather than letting a small issue become a bigger one.

What would you do

You are told to make basic adjustments only under supervision. What would you do if your lead was busy and the machine needed an adjustment?

What they are checking: Whether they respect the limits of their training instead of making changes they are not cleared to make.

This is third shift, 10:45pm to 6:45am, Sunday through Thursday. How will you handle overnight work?

What they are checking: Whether they have a realistic plan for sleep and attendance on a permanent overnight shift.

What would you do if the machine kept making tubes that failed inspection and you could not tell why?

What they are checking: Whether they stop and get help instead of running scrap to hit a production number.

About the work

How would you load paperboard and glue onto a machine without causing a jam or a spill?

What they are checking: Whether they think about doing material handling carefully, since sloppy loading causes downtime and waste.

When you inspect finished cores, what kinds of defects would you look for?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that wrinkles, loose plies and wrong lengths make a product the customer will reject.

How do you stay safe around rotating mandrels and cutoff saws?

What they are checking: Whether they respect guards and lockout and keep hands clear of moving parts.

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The full job description

As published by Sonoco.

Location: Neenah, WI Position: Spiral Technician I, II, III Pay Range: $25.33 - $34.91 Shift: 3rd 10:45pm - 6:45 am (shift differential $0.75) Sunday-Thursday From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 — all while keeping the heart of “People Build Businesses” alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people. The Spiral Technician I is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of spiral winding machinery to produce quality paper cores and tubes. This entry-level position involves foundational tasks related to machine setup, material handling, and quality control. What your will be doing: • Operate and monitor spiral winding machines, ensuring proper setup and continuous operation. • Load and unload raw materials (paperboard, glue) onto the machinery as required. • Perform basic adjustments to machine settings under supervision. • Conduct visual inspections of finished products for quality defects and adherence to specifications. • Measure and verify product dimensions using appropriate tools (e.g., calipers, tape measure). • Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to all safety protocols and company policies. • Assist higher-level technicians with more complex machine troubleshooting and maintenance tasks. • Document production data accurately and completely. • Follow all established safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE). • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors regarding production status and issues. We'd love to hear from you if: • High school diploma or equivalent (GED). • Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions in English. • Basic mathematical skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds repeatedly throughout a shift. • Manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination. • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks. • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. • Prior experience in a manufacturing or production environment is a plus, but not required. • Willingness to learn and adapt to new processes and technologies. At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee. Benefits • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options • 401(k) retirement plan with company match • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance • Tuition reimbursement We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

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