Press Operator

We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Press Operator to join our production team. This position supports daily printing operations and helps ensure products are produced on time, at the required quality standards, with minimal waste and a strong focus on safety.

Pay: $26.00 per hour

New hires are eligible for a $2,250* sign-on bonus!

The ideal candidate has experience working in a printing, production, manufacturing, machine operation, or similar industrial environment and is comfortable working around mechanical equipment in a fast-paced setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with daily printing press operations to ensure quality products are produced safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
• Load, stage, and prepare newsprint rolls and printing materials for production.
• Assist with press setup and make-ready, including plates, ink, paper web, conveyors, and folder equipment.
• Operate basic press controls and monitor press performance during production runs.
• Monitor print quality, including color, registration, ink density, and paper alignment, making adjustments as needed.
• Assist with web breaks, press restarts, troubleshooting, and other production issues.
• Prepare, stage, image, bend, and sort printing plates as needed.
• Perform routine cleaning and preventive maintenance on presses and related equipment.
• Inspect, clean, adjust, and replace press components as needed.
• Help minimize paper waste and maintain established production and quality standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all company safety procedures, OSHA requirements, and required PPE guidelines.
• Immediately report equipment problems, safety hazards, accidents, injuries, and near misses to management.
• Perform other pressroom and production duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in printing, press operations, manufacturing, production, or industrial machine operation preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn press equipment and controls.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment and production issues.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Dependable attendance and ability to work as part of a team.
• Willingness to follow established safety procedures and wear required PPE.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements associated with a production/pressroom environment.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who is reliable, mechanically inclined, safety-conscious, and willing to learn. Candidates with experience as a press operator, printing press operator, machine operator, production operator, manufacturing associate, or equipment operator are encouraged to apply.

Apply today to join our production team!

Sign on bonus pay out in increments.

The Des Moines Register is Iowa’s leading news organization, known for delivering trusted journalism and serving communities across the state. With a strong reputation for excellence, teamwork, and innovation, the company offers a fast-paced production environment focused on quality, efficiency, and keeping readers informed every day.