Press Operator

First Press Operator

Pay Rate: $20–$23 per hour

Schedule: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Rotating Schedule

Position Summary

The First Press Operator directs the press crew and performs manual and machine-operator tasks related to the setup, maintenance, and operation of an offset printing press. This role is responsible for both quantitative and qualitative press performance, ensuring production standards, safety, and efficiency are consistently met.

Essential Functions

• Make ready and operate offset printing press.
• Review job tickets to determine print quantity, stock specifications, colors, and special instructions.
• Inspect offset printing plates for defects; apply corrective solutions for minor issues or notify supervisor of non-repairable plates.
• Apply packing sheets to blanket cylinder to achieve proper blanket thickness.
• Measure paper thickness and adjust spacing between blanket and impression cylinders accordingly.
• Adjust press controls to regulate ink flow and dampening solution.
• Start press and inspect printed output for ink density, registration, and positioning; make ongoing adjustments throughout production runs.
• Adjust feeder and delivery mechanisms as needed.
• Remove and replace worn rollers and adjust roller pressure using hand tools.
• Lead, train, direct, and monitor the press crew.
• Perform all duties in compliance with company safety policies.
• Complete required press maintenance and cleaning.
• Assist with job assignments in other manufacturing areas as needed.

Qualifications

• Comfort with Repetitive Tasks: Ability to perform detailed, repetitive work for extended periods.
• Attendance & Reliability: Dependable, punctual, flexible with scheduling, and willing to work overtime as needed.
• Safety & Compliance: Strict adherence to company policies and safety regulations.
• Achievement Orientation: Goal-driven with a commitment to meeting or exceeding production targets.
• Leadership & Teamwork: Ability to lead a crew, follow direction, and foster cooperation.
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills.
• Instruction Compliance: Ability to follow directions with minimal supervision.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Strong knowledge of press setup, troubleshooting, and operation.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of press helper experience required.
• Prior experience directing or supporting a press crew strongly preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Completion of required on-the-job training, including annual OSHA training.
• Pallet jack and forklift training as assigned.

Other Requirements

• Ability to read, write, perform basic math, use measurement devices, and record data accurately.
• Ability to distinguish color variations accurately.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.

Physical Demands

General Movement

• Standing: Constantly (more than 5.5 hours/day)
• Walking: Frequently (2.5–5.5 hours/day)
• Handling objects: Constantly
• Reaching outward: Constantly
• Reaching above shoulder: Occasionally (up to 2.5 hours/day)
• Climbing, squatting, kneeling: Occasionally
• Bending: Constantly

Strength Requirements

• Regularly lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull up to 100 lbs.

If interested, please send resumes to jessica.c@xlpro.com