Press Assistant

Toppan Packaging Americas; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The Press Assistant at TOPPAN Packaging Americas supports the Press Operator on a flexographic press to produce film rolls per specs, ensuring quality and cost efficiency. The role requires attention to detail, steady pace, and adherence to safety and housekeeping standards.

The position offers 12-hour rotating shifts (2-2-3) with a night differential and a starting pay of $19.32/hour plus $2.00/hour for night shifts, with day shift training provided.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Able to stand for long periods.
• Able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Read and follow instructions.
• Manufacturing experience preferred.
• Stable work history with safety habits.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the operation and production of the press.
• Maintain cleanliness of presses and work areas.
• Verify plate numbers against item specification sheets.
• Monitor print quality and ink levels; ensure copy accuracy.
• Support training of probationary Press Assistants.
• Return inks, plates, sleeves, and film to proper locations.
• Acknowledge and monitor doctor blade chamber condition.
• Stop press if defects are detected to prevent waste.
• Record materials usage in Shop Floor systems.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Reading instructions

Strong attendance

Physical stamina

Lift 50 pounds

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position: Press AssistantLocation: HickoryPay Rate: $ 19.32 /hour + $2.00/hour shift differential for night shiftShift Schedule: 12-hour rotating shifts (2-2-3 schedule)Night Shift Hours: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AMTraining: Conducted on day shiftSummary DescriptionThe 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.What You’ll Be DoingAssist in the operation and production of the press, including support of print quality standardsUnderstand basic printing terminology, press components, and their general useMaintain cleanliness of presses and surrounding work areasStage press components for upcoming jobs, including sleeves, anilox, ink, and filmVerify plate numbers against item specification sheetsMaintain required levels of materials such as ink and film to keep the press running efficientlySupport print quality by monitoring print position, copy accuracy, UPC codes, register, and impressionsAccount for all film used and returned during the shiftApply roll tickets and weights to each roll and maintain accurate records in Shop Floor computer systemsReturn inks, plates, sleeves, and film to proper locations with correct identification after each orderLearn Press Operator functions and fill in during operator absences when neededAssist in training probationary Press AssistantsLocate and follow packout instructions to meet customer requirementsMonitor press operation during breaks, identify defects, and stop press when needed to prevent wasteProperly clean drum, nip rolls, and chill rollAcknowledge and monitor doctor blade chamber conditionPerform other duties as directed by Shift Leader or Production ManagerWe’d Love to Hear From You IfYou are mechanically inclined and comfortable using hand toolsYou can read and follow both verbal and written instructionsYou have prior manufacturing experience (preferred but not required)You have a stable work history with strong attendance and safety habitsYou can stand for long periods of timeYou can lift up to 50 poundsYou are comfortable performing repetitive movements in a production environmentQualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalentBenefitsAt 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 options401(k) retirement plan with company matchEmployee Assistance Program and wellbeing resourcesPaid time off and holidaysCompany-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverageTuition reimbursementEqual Opportunity EmployerTOPPAN Packaging Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.