Press Operator

As part of a press crew, performs and works with other crewmembers to perform all duties required to operate the web presses which include: webbing, plating, color balance, compensation, supplying newsprint, cleaning and maintenance of the equipment, etc., as directed by the Press Operator.

Works with another crewmember to change the reel assemblies as necessary to the size of newsprint rolls to be used according to production requirements as follows:

•  Removes the rolls from the reel by activating the reel arms to unload position and releasing the roll onto a dolly.
•  Moves the roll to the storage area.
•  Unlocks and moves the reel arm(s) (holding the rolls of newsprint) of the reel assembly to proper width of the roll as required and relocks.
•  Reloads the reels by engaging the core of the roll on the reel spindles and secures.
•  Adds, removes and/or moves the cooper belt(s) to be used for tension. 
•  Prepares the roll for the (splicing the newsprint for continuous operations) by removing the wrap and any damaged area; applies roll make-up tape.
•  Makes the paster by engaging the automatic or semi-automatic paster control system. Monitors the process and makes adjustments and corrections as necessary for completion of the paster.
•  Monitors the reel, tension and paster system throughout the press run.
•  Places the cores (expired rolls) and roll damage (clean newsprint waste) in proper containers and keep the work area clean.

Works with one or more crewmembers to perform the following duties:

• Engages and/or disengages units and the folder by using proper clutches and alignment.
• Ensures starting webs (paper) are running through the unit to the folder properly by hand-guiding the web through the impression cylinders (prints), around the idlers (which support the web) and the compensator.
• Compensates (center) the webs and sections either manually or by machine as required.
• Engages the color printing cylinder; plates-up for color position; pre-register color (done manually).
• As necessary, changes the cam action (controls), knife spacing (cut-off) and/or band adjustments (size of product) on the folder(s) for the proper production requirements.
• May be assigned to check, set and clean the detector systems prior to the press run. (The detection systems indicate web failures or separation of the paster).
• Keeps the work area clean of all debris and returns the tools to the proper places.
• Removes the old plates from the plate cylinder.
• Selects the proper plate determined by production requirements and places and secures the plate on the plate cylinder.
• At start-up , observes sequence of the pages and sets the margins.
• Sets the ink and fountain solution for proper balance and color tone. 
• Inspects the product periodically, during the run for sequence of pages, color setting, registers and clean print, and as necessary, makes adjustments.
• Pump or cleans the pans; cleans the cylinders as required.
• As necessary, obtain plates from Platemaking. Removes the old plates and places the new plates on the correct unit and position.
• When necessary, make new webs and sections, and resets detector system.
• Works with other crewmembers to replace change and/or adjust the blankets, rollers and solution equipment as required.
• Keeps the work area clean of all debris.
• As part of the crew, assists in the identification and diagnosis of any problems and/or repair of the equipment before, during and after the press production.
• Fills any crew positions and performs other miscellaneous and related duties as assigned or required.
• May guide and train other Journeypersons or the Apprentices in the web press operation.
• Cleans and maintains the equipment and cleans the surrounding area.
• Employee must be on assigned shift at their scheduled time.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed rather than to be an exhaustive list of all duties. Responsibilities and skills required of the position.

As part of a press crew, performs and works with other crewmembers to perform all duties required to operate the web presses which include: webbing, plating, color balance, compensation, supplying newsprint, cleaning and maintenance of the equipment, etc., as directed by the Press Operator.

• High school diploma or equivalent. • Four years experience as a web press operator. • Speak, read, write and comprehend English. • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide. • Ability to reason logically. • Ability to stand during shift, climb flights of stairs, lift up to 501bs. And move 250 Ibs. • Must be dependable. • Must have a good level of mechanical ability. • Ability to follow and carry out instructions independently.

1.Color vision acuity.2.At least five years' offset press experience (experience with Goss Metro Presses preferred).3.Ability to lift 55 pounds.4.Must be able to perform well under deadline constraints and meet quality standards.5.Willingness to work rotating shifts and, if needed, holidays and weekends.6.Job involves standing most of the shift.7.Mechanical aptitude and agility to move around press units.

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