Sheetfed First Press Operator

Key Responsibilities

• Review job specifications and work orders to determine appropriate press setup and materials.
• Perform all make-ready tasks, including pulling, hanging, and verifying approved plates; inspecting plates for defects; preparing blankets; adjusting press tension; cleaning ink rollers; and installing plates.
• Load and regulate ink colors, fill reservoirs, and adjust ink volume to meet print specifications.
• Load and verify the correct paper stock and ensure proper setup of take-off and delivery areas.
• Verify image positioning and quality against approved samples and proofs.
• Make color corrections and press adjustments before to and during production to maintain quality standards.
• Start, run, monitor, and control press operations, including feeding and printing processes.
• Produce and evaluate startup samples, inspecting for defects such as blemishes, scratches, rub marks, readability issues, and barcode accuracy.
• Inspect printed sheets throughout the run (minimum one sheet per 1,000 impressions) to ensure conformance with job requirements.
• Document and record all required production information; report discrepancies and follow directions as needed.
• Identify, tag, and stage defective or non-conforming materials using established color-coding procedures.
• Stage finished goods on pallets with job documentation properly placed and completed.
• Complete all paperwork accurately and place required materials in the job jacket.
• Clear and isolate finished goods, make-ready materials, and waste according to procedures.
• Perform routine maintenance, minor repairs, and preventative maintenance as scheduled.
• Record required data on machine boards and production systems.
• Assist and back up other Press Operators and Press Assistants as needed.
• May operate and oversee more than one press at a time.
• Mentor and train team members; promote teamwork and cross-training on assigned equipment.
• Follow all standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety guidelines, and quality requirements.
• Comply with all food safety and quality policies and report concerns to site leadership.

Job Requirements

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: 3–5 years of experience as a Sheetfed Press Operator preferred. 2–3 years of experience as a Sheetfed Operator II preferred.
• Experience: Experience with Heidelberg XL106 7-color LED w/ UV presses preferred, but will consider other makes and models.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Thorough knowledge of sheetfed offset printing processes, materials, equipment, and safety requirements. Strong ability to read and interpret job tickets, specifications, SOPs, safety rules, and maintenance instructions. Skilled in routine operational maintenance and minor equipment repairs. Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities. Computer proficiency required. Detail-oriented with strong quality focus. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple responsibilities. Effective communication skills for one-on-one and small group interactions. Ability to apply common-sense understanding to written, oral, or diagram-based instructions. Consistent attendance and punctuality. Successful completion of color vision testing required. Knowledge of Lockout/Tagout procedures and production danger zones. Supervisory experience preferred.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits for eligible employees including medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement savings, paid time off, holidays and additional benefits.

About the Role

The Sheetfed First Press Operator is an experienced press operator responsible for setting up, adjusting, operating, and maintaining multi-color sheetfed offset printing presses. This role ensures printed materials meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production efficiency requirements in a cost-effective manner.