Press Assistant

Location: Hickory

About the role

The Press Assistant supports the Press Operator on a flexographic printing press to produce printed rolls of film according to company and customer specifications, while meeting quality standards in the most efficient and economical manner possible. This role also helps maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the operation and production of the press, including support of print quality standards
• Understand basic printing terminology, press components, and their general use
• Maintain cleanliness of presses and surrounding work areas
• Stage press components for upcoming jobs, including sleeves, anilox, ink, and film
• Verify plate numbers against item specification sheets
• Maintain required levels of materials such as ink and film to keep the press running efficiently
• Support print quality by monitoring print position, copy accuracy, UPC codes, register, and impressions
• Account for all film used and returned during the shift
• Apply roll tickets and weights to each roll and maintain accurate records in Shop Floor computer systems
• Return inks, plates, sleeves, and film to proper locations with correct identification after each order
• Learn Press Operator functions and fill in during operator absences when needed
• Assist in training probationary Press Assistants
• Locate and follow packout instructions to meet customer requirements
• Monitor press operation during breaks, identify defects, and stop press when needed to prevent waste
• Properly clean drum, nip rolls, and chill roll
• Acknowledge and monitor doctor blade chamber condition
• Perform other duties as directed by Shift Leader or Production Manager

Requirements

• Mechanically inclined and comfortable using hand tools
• Ability to read and follow both verbal and written instructions
• Prior manufacturing experience (preferred but not required)
• Stable work history with strong attendance and safety habits
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Comfortable performing repetitive movements in a production environment

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent

Pay

$19.32 per hour

Schedule

12-hour rotating shifts (2-2-3 schedule) – Night Shift Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Training conducted on day shift.

Benefits

At TOPPAN Packaging Americas, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support overall wellbeing. Benefits may vary based on location, employment classification, or collective bargaining agreement and may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources
• Paid time off and holidays
• Company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement