Position Title: Lead Press Operator
Department: Pressroom
General Purpose
Perform manual and machine operator tasks related to the setup, maintenance, and operation of a printing press.
Essential Job Functions
• Read and interpret job ticket instructions and direct press setup accordingly.
• Make jobs press-ready by running sets to adjust print quality, registration, and color settings.
• Perform pre-run inspections, obtain supervisor approval, and run jobs to completion.
• Achieve color accuracy prior to requesting supervisor color approval.
• Monitor offsetting and load temperatures for various printed substrates.
• Observe and monitor press operations to detect malfunctions and determine necessary adjustments.
• Accurately follow all job and process instructions.
• Monitor pH and conductivity of fountain solution and all press-related chemistry.
• Complete all required documentation including shop floor entries, job logs, sheet counts, and running sequences.
• Supervise and train press feeders and second press operators on multi-color printing processes.
• Promote a positive team environment aligned with departmental and company objectives.
• Perform preventative maintenance including lubrication, cleaning, minor adjustments, and replacement of small parts and rollers.
• Follow all safety policies and oversee crew safety, including MSDS, Lockout/Tagout, and proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Operate or assist with other pressroom equipment and presses as needed based on workload.
• Direct pre-press tasks such as paper trimming when required.
• Assist in maintaining a clean, neat, and orderly work area.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
• Strong color perception required; must pass color hue and color vision tests.
• Minimum of five years of manufacturing experience performing First Press Operator duties on sheet-fed equipment comparable to Heidelberg, including CP2000 console knowledge.
• Experience using color scanning equipment.
• Experience working with plastic substrates.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Basic computer skills including data entry.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
• Ability to read a ruler.
• Ability to operate densitometers, spectrophotometers, calculators, computer terminals, gloss meters, pH/conductivity meters, and other printing equipment.
• Ability to work in and around UV (ultra-violet) materials.
• Demonstrated competencies in accuracy, reliability, decision-making, time management, and self-motivation.
• Reliable attendance required.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made.
• Ability to sit, stand, move throughout the work area, talk, and hear.
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.