Make Ready Assistant (STP)

Starpak Llc; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PPE provided

Job summary

Sized for Starpak Llc, the Make Ready Assistant role supports efficient changeovers on flexographic printing machines. You will verify plates, stickyback tape, and anilox rolls against the job pack and assist with plate installation and ink sump changes.

Working closely with the press operator and prepress teams, you ensure materials are verified, and the press is prepared for the next print run, while adhering to SOPs and PPE requirements.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in print production or manufacturing (flexographic preferred).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in verifying job specs.
• Ability to follow SOPs and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Visually inspect printing plates for specs and defects.
• Verify stickyback tape type and placement per job pack.
• Inspect anilox rolls for damage and match to job pack.
• Install plates and perform anilox changeovers per instructions.
• Assist with ink sump movement during changeovers.
• Ensure safe handling and PPE compliance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety protocols

Mechanical aptitude

Communication

Tools

Anilox rolls

Plates

Job description

The Make Ready Assistant supports efficient and accurate job changeovers on Vistaflex and Miraflex flexographic printing machines. This role is critical to reducing downtime and ensuring all components meet job specifications before and during setup. The Assistant works closely with the press operator and prepress teams to verify materials, install components, and prepare the press for the next print run.Key Responsibilities:Stage 1: Pre-Changeover Inspection & VerificationPlate Inspection:Visually inspect all printing plates to ensure they match job specifications and are free of defects. Notify Make Ready Lead or Press Team Lead immediately.Stickyback Tape Check:Confirm the correct type and placement of stickyback tape on each plate, verifying against the job pack request, if not, please notify Make Ready Lead and Press Team Lead immediately.Anilox Roll Inspection:Verify the installed anilox rolls match the job pack request. If not, notify Make Ready Lead and Press Team Lea immediately.Inspect Anilox rolls for scorelines, hits, or other damage and report any issues immediately with Make Ready Lead and Press Team Lead.Stage 2: Component ChangeoverPlate Removal & Installation:Install plates for the upcoming job as per job pack instructions using Vistaport.Safely remove all plates from the previous job using Vistaport.Anilox Changeover:Remove anilox rolls used in the previous job and install the new ones specified for the next print run.Anilox Cleaning:Send used anilox rolls to the wash station or designated cleaning area following proper handling procedures.Sump Movement Support:Assist the Press Assistant with the movement, removal, or replacement of ink sumps during changeovers, when required.Ensure safe handling and avoid contamination between jobs.Note: While not a primary responsibility, the Make Ready Assistant may be asked to assist with the ink changing sumps.Qualifications & Skills:Prior experience in a print production or manufacturing environment (flexographic printing preferred).Strong attention to detail and accuracy in verifying job specs.Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with machine components (e.g., anilox rolls, plates).Ability to follow SOPs and safety protocols.Good communication and teamwork skills.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSAbility to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds regularly.Frequent standing, walking, bending, and operating equipment.Tolerance for working in varying environmental conditions (e.g., hot, cold, noisyWORKING CONDITIONSMandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE)