Lead Printing Operator (19) - 2nd or 3rd Shift

This position is located in Leavenworth, Kansas and reports through the Leavenworth Print Department. Relocation is not provided.

About the role

The Lead Printing Operator leads a press team in the operation of high-speed, multi-color printing presses that produce wrapping paper and tissue. Responsibilities include setting up and adjusting presses to reproduce high-quality specialty product designs, managing ink systems, and ensuring color balance standards are met. The role requires efficient press management, troubleshooting mechanical and print-related issues, and providing leadership, training, and development to Assistant Printing Operators.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot equipment and print issues at the start and throughout the production run to ensure printed product meets customer standards.
• Determine press speed to ensure efficient operation.
• Interpret and analyze job specifications/instructions and make adjustments to materials, tooling, equipment, or ink to meet job specifications.
• Set up the press with the correct components and proper adjustments to achieve color with minimal waste.
• Provide leadership, training, and development to Assistant Printing Operators.
• Execute quality system including preflight, sampling plan, and removal of salvage/spoilage.
• Prepare related paperwork/documentation for shipping accuracy, including completing production data and spoilage.
• Complete regular press maintenance and cleaning, including TPMs.

Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years’ successful experience as an Assistant Printing Operator working on a flexo, gravure, or litho printing press; OR successful experience as a Lead Printing Operator; OR similar print operator role.
• Experience must include 4-color process printing plus match overprint.
• Ability to grasp, lift, and carry items weighing up to 25–50 lbs. frequently, and 50–100 lbs. occasionally.
• Demonstrated experience as part of a print team.
• Ability to stand and walk 95% of the time.
• Ability to frequently reach, twist, bend, and perform repetitive hand/wrist motion and fine motor skills.
• Ability to frequently work in awkward, cramped, and difficult positions.
• Ability to regularly work at or above shoulder level and in awkward positions.
• Ability to pass a color perception test (testing must be on file).
• Ability to work overtime as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated strong mechanical and computer skills.
• Good knowledge of inks, color, and their effect in printing to attain correct reproduction of product.
• Good analytical skills to assist in making ink adjustments to achieve appropriate color.
• Experience with liquid inks preferred.
• Ability to problem-solve technical issues and provide recommendations.
• Self-directed and self-motivated with a proven work ethic and ability to perform under pressure, reorganize, and change directions when necessary.
• Ability to understand and follow established safety procedures for wearing PPE and handling hazardous chemicals.
• Good math, written, and oral communication skills.
• Ability to learn and retain knowledge.
• Ability to lead and provide direction to assistant press operators to ensure safe and efficient production.
• Working knowledge of SAP.

Additional Details

• Work includes overtime, as required during peak seasons.
• This is a production environment requiring appropriate PPE and adherence to operating procedures when working with hazardous chemicals, moving press equipment, and sharp objects.
• Some noise is present, and hearing protection is required.

Pay

$29–$35/hour for candidates with extensive print operating experience.

Schedule

Full-time, Monday–Friday. Available shifts: 3:30 PM–12:00 AM or 11:30 PM–8:00 AM.