Lead Printing Press Operator II | 2nd & 3rd Shifts | Niles, IL

Lead Press Operator 2 (Direct Hire)

Shifts Available: 2nd & 3rd Shift

Location: Niles, IL 60714

Overview

We are seeking seasoned Lead Press Operator II professionals to join a best‑in‑class pressroom known for producing high‑quality, detail‑driven packaging for top‑tier brands. This is a direct‑hire opportunity offering competitive compensation, stable shift schedules, and the chance to work in a clean, well‑maintained, high‑end manufacturing environment.

Open Positions

• 2nd Shift: 1 opening (2:00 PM – 10:30 PM)
• 3rd Shift: 2 openings (10:00 PM – 6:30 AM)
• Floater: 1 position supporting 2nd or 3rd shift
• Total Talent Needed: 3–4 employees

Pay Rate

$35.00 – $47.00 per hour, based on experience

Direct Hire Role

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Read and interpret job tickets to ensure full understanding of job specifications.
• Perform complete press make-ready, including color, register, imposition, copy, and shop procedures.
• Provide direction to feeders and monitor their performance; accountable for feeder actions.
• Keep the Pressroom Manager informed of job status and communicate any obstacles, delays, quality concerns, or operational issues.
• Relay complete and accurate job information to the next shift, including jobs in progress and special considerations.
• Enter accurate and timely information into the Hagen system; review Hagen sheets, make necessary corrections, and submit by end of shift.
• Complete all required documentation and follow all established procedures.
• Perform and document scheduled press maintenance.
• Ensure press equipment is clean, organized, and well maintained on a daily basis.
• Make quality adjustments as needed and escalate serious quality or mechanical issues to management.
• Complete a project information sheet for each job.
• Lead and direct press crew to meet customer expectations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Responsible for employees working on the press during the assigned shift.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (copy required).
• Experience:
• Minimum of 3 years as a Press Operator in a quality printing environment.
• Skilled in Komori, Heidelberg, 40” presses, or similar equipment, including operation and maintenance.

Job Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of various stock types and printed sheet quality standards.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of pressroom workflow, equipment, materials, and products.
• High level of mechanical aptitude.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Ability to read, write, follow verbal instructions, and perform basic math.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk throughout the facility for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 70 pounds regularly.
• Required vision capabilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing/pressroom environment with moderate noise levels; ear protection may be required at times.
• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, dust, odors, and moderate noise.
• Occasional exposure to hot and cold temperatures.
• Safety glasses may be required.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety glasses
• Ear plugs
• Steel-toe work boots