Printing Press Operator

Press Operator

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

The Press Operator is responsible for preparing, operating, and maintaining the printing press to ensure production jobs are completed safely, accurately, and efficiently. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Ensure all materials needed for production jobs are at the press before the "Make Ready" process begins.
• Clean printing decks and wash the press following completion of previous jobs.
• Remove and install print cylinders.
• Set and maintain proper ink levels and viscosity.
• Set print decks for proper impression and registration.
• Verify all aspects of the production job before obtaining supervisor approval to run.
• Remove wash-up ink/solvent mixtures from the press and properly dispose of them in the satellite hazardous waste drum located near the press.
• Ensure all hazardous waste drums are correctly labeled and handled in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
• When a drum is full, securely install the gasket, bung, and ring, then move the drum to the 90-day storage area for pumping into the tote.

Job Qualifications

To perform the duties of a Press Operator successfully, an individual must be able to:

• Take direction from supervisors and follow established procedures.
• Maintain a neat, clean, and organized work area.
• Complete assigned tasks accurately and in a timely manner.
• Follow all safety procedures and company policies.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

General Skills

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read and understand schedule boards and production orders to determine job sequence and required materials.
• Ability to read a tape measure to 1/32".

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to move 55-gallon drums using a two-wheeled dolly.
• Must have color and peripheral vision.
• Ability to adjust focus when using web inspection systems.

Work Environment

The Press Operator should expect to work around:

• Moving forklifts
• Mechanical equipment and moving parts
• Cleaning chemicals and solvents
• Fumes
• Low and high noise levels

Safety Requirements

The following personal protective equipment is required in the production facility:

• Eye protection
• Safety shoes
• Hairnet
• Beard net, when applicable
• Earplugs in the Press Department and on the production floor