Press Assistant / Press Operator Assistant

Press Assistant / Press Operator Assistant

Missourian Publishing Company
Location: Washington, Missouri
Starting Pay: $18.00 per hour
Job Type: Full-Time

About Missourian Publishing Company

Missourian Publishing Company is an employee-owned, nationally recognized printing and publishing organization based in Washington, Missouri. With a long-standing reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability, we produce newspapers, magazines, books, catalogs, and commercial print products for clients across the country.

Our team takes pride in craftsmanship, teamwork, and maintaining a strong workplace culture. As we continue to grow, we are seeking motivated individuals to join our pressroom team and help deliver high-quality printed products.

Position Overview

Missourian Publishing Company is seeking a dependable and mechanically inclined Press Assistant to support the operation of our multi-unit, web-fed rotary printing press. This hands-on role is ideal for candidates interested in printing, manufacturing, production, mechanical operations, and industrial equipment.

The Press Assistant works closely with the Pressman to ensure efficient production, maintain print quality, and assist with routine maintenance and troubleshooting of press equipment.

No prior press experience is required — we provide on-the-job training.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist pressman with operation of multi-unit, web-fed rotary printing press
• Lock printing plates onto cylinders and thread paper rolls through press rollers and folders
• Adjust compensators and guides to maintain proper paper alignment and tension
• Inspect printed materials for quality, registration, spacing, and ink distribution
• Make adjustments to correct spacing, cutting, folding, or ink irregularities
• Re-thread paper and adjust tension rollers when web breaks occur
• Replace printing plates and assist with make-ready changes during production
• Assist in replacing cutting blades, ink rollers, blankets, and other press components
• Load supply rolls of paper at the beginning and throughout press runs
• Fill ink wells and assist with press setup and cleanup
• Perform routine cleaning, inspection, and lubrication of press equipment
• Operate forklift to move paper rolls and production materials
• Maintain a clean and organized production environment
• Follow all safety procedures and company policies

Physical Requirements

This position requires working in a manufacturing and production environment:

• Long periods of standing
• Heavy lifting
• Repetitive bending and movement
• Climbing stairs
• Working in tight or confined spaces
• Pushing paper rolls exceeding 1,000 lbs (with mechanical assistance)
• Manual dexterity to manipulate small mechanical parts

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude preferred
• Manufacturing, production, or printing experience a plus (not required)
• Forklift experience preferred or willingness to be trained
• Strong attention to detail and quality control
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
• Dependable attendance and strong work ethic
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Team-oriented mindset
• Willingness to learn and grow within the company

really-Optimized Keywords

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Compensation & Benefits

Starting Pay: $18.00 per hour

We offer a competitive benefits package including:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off
• Life Insurance
• Training and advancement opportunities
• Stable, long-term employment

Why Join Missourian Publishing Company?

• Established, stable organization
• Growth opportunities
• Hands-on technical training
• Team-oriented work environment
• Modern printing equipment and technology

Missourian Publishing Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workplace built on teamwork, safety, and producing high-quality printed products.

Hired candidate must past backgroud check and drug screen.

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18