3rd Press Operator

Aapstaff; Elk Grove Village (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Aapstaff is seeking a 3rd Press Operator for its Elk Grove Village, IL facility. The role focuses on keeping cylinders clean, organized, and ready for production, with responsibilities spanning cylinder prep, mounting, tracking, and press readiness.

Ideal candidates will have forklift experience, English proficiency, and at least two years in ink/press support roles, along with a safety-first mindset and strong teamwork. Production supervision may be covered as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training is a plus.
• Forklift driving and material-handling skills.
• English-language proficiency.
• Two years of experience working as an ink technician or press helper preferred; complete required training for the 3rd Press Operator role.
• Good problem-solving, decision-making, teamwork, initiative, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Keep printing cylinders clean, organized, and ready for production.
• Follow 5S standards and safety procedures; maintain a safe work area.
• Prepare cylinders for reels and ensure readiness before production begins.
• Assist with cylinder mounting/dismounting and tracking; support press preparation.
• Report unsafe conditions and participate in safety activities and TOP 5 production meetings.
• Cover for the Production Supervisor when needed.

Skills

Forklift operation

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical diploma

Tools

Densitometer

Colorimeter

Job description

3rd Press Operator

Position Summary

The 3rd Press Operator is responsible for keeping printing cylinders clean, organized, and ready for production. This role supports cylinder setup, mounting and dismounting, cylinder tracking, and related press preparation. The operator follows safety, quality, and production procedures, participates in TOP 5 production meetings, and may be asked to cover for the Production Supervisor when needed.

Key Responsibilities

Safety and Work Area

• Complete required safety and equipment training before performing assigned tasks.
• Maintain an orderly, clean, and safe work area using 5S standards.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Handle cylinders, tools, and accessories safely; use suitable lifting or handling equipment when needed.
• Report unsafe conditions, risks, incidents, and accidents, and participate in safety activities as requested.

Cylinder Preparation and Tracking

• Clean and organize all cylinders, and mount or dismount cylinders according to press production needs.
• Prepare cylinders for reels and ensure they are ready before production begins.
• Use the correct tools and accessories, including felts and suitable pallets, to store and handle cylinders safely.
• Check batch numbers and raw-material information, and follow standard procedures for non-quality product.
• Follow critical control point (CCP) tracking requirements under the HACCP method.
• Understand and follow the job jacket or job packet.
• Prepare cylinders according to the production assignment and confirm cylinder information against the production file.
• Verify cylinder locations at the bottom of the machine and confirm that each cylinder is in the correct storage position.
• Keep cylinder identification labels visible and properly aligned in the designated label area.
• Bring cylinders to the machine and assemble them in the correct order for the next job.
• Remove waste generated during printing and place it in the designated container.
• Inspect cylinders for wear or damage; remove damaged items from use and report them according to procedure.
• Prepare the next production cylinders and place them on the assigned pallet.
• Keep wooden pallets organized and remove damaged or unusable pallets from the production area.
• Maintain orderly, clean work areas and return cylinders used in recent production to the cylinder warehouse.
• Maintain and respect the organization system for printing sleeves.
• Bring feedback to the Production Supervisor about sleeves that need repair or replacement.
• Ensure needed cylinders are on the designated carts at the beginning of each job and during changeovers.
• Provide the press with the required substrates and materials for production.
• Complete other tasks assigned by the Production Supervisor.

Teamwork and Quality

• Work cooperatively with press operators and other team members.
• Participate in TOP 5 production meetings and share relevant production feedback.
• Follow applicable HACCP, GMP, BRC Global Standards for Food Safety, emergency procedures, and company policies.
• Arrive at the machine at least five minutes before the shift starts.
• Understand and comply with Environmental Hazardous Waste Training requirements.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High school diploma, technical diploma, or equivalent experience.
• Forklift driving and material-handling skills; experience with a densitometer or colorimeter is helpful.
• English-language proficiency.
• Two years of experience working as an ink technician or press helper preferred; complete required training for the 3rd Press Operator role.
• Good problem-solving, decision-making, teamwork, initiative, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate leadership when needed.

Physical and Work Conditions

• Physical effort: Moderate to heavy.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Work may require standing, bending, and being on your feet for extended periods.
• Potential workplace hazards include pinches, cuts, slips, falls, and fire-related risks.
• Follow all safety procedures.

Reporting and Contacts

• Immediate Supervisor: Production Supervisor
• If the Production Manager is absent, report according to the site's designated escalation process.