Press Operator I
Printpack Jackson is seeking a qualified candidate to join our team as a Press Operator. The Press Operator I position is responsible for safe and efficient operation of printing equipment while maintaining high‑quality standards and supporting team initiatives. This role focuses on basic press operations, quality control, and adherence to safety and food‑safety standards while developing operational expertise.
This position operates in a manufacturing setting requiring adherence to safety protocols and standard operating procedures. The role requires physical activity, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Must be able to work rotating shifts as required. This position serves as an entry‑level role for press operations with opportunities for advancement through demonstrated competency and skill development. This position reports to the Shift Supervisor.
Shifts and Compensation
2nd shift (3 p‑11 p) Monday‑Friday. Candidates may transition to either 2nd or 3rd shift. Starting pay is $23.58/hr with a $2.50/hr shift differential for hours worked between 7 pm and 7 am.
Candidates must be willing to train on days for 4‑6 months before transitioning to a permanent shift, but this is not guaranteed.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and operate printing equipment and all aspects of press operations effectively and efficiently
- Perform complete job setup including print cylinders, anilox rolls, ink, and doctor blades
- Execute basic troubleshooting of equipment issues, register, print quality, and technical specification issues
- Execute color matching and equipment adjustments for optimal production
- Perform and facilitate changeovers effectively and efficiently
- Perform quality‑control checks and maintain product quality standards with customer specifications
- Support training and mentoring initiatives for new operators, sharing technical knowledge and ensuring proper safety protocols are followed
- Coordinate with other departments for job preparation, changeovers, and resolution of production issues through effective verbal and written communication
- Document and record production information accurately
- Facilitate press make‑ready, run, and wash‑up procedures
- Manage hazardous materials and waste according to safety protocols; support team activities and contribute to process decisions
- Collaborate with team members to achieve production goals while maintaining safety awareness as top priority
- Maintain adherence to food‑safety standards and established protocols
- Other duties as assigned
Education & Experience
- Manufacturing experience required
- Prior experience as a Press Assistant/Operator, Ink or Pre‑press Technician
Required Skills
- Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities
- Ability to read and use measuring tools accurately
- Able to read layouts
- Strong attention to detail
- Documentation and record‑keeping
- Basic computer proficiency including email
- Ability to read and write detailed reports
- Strong organizational skills
- Effective communication skills
- Basic mathematical skills
- Understanding of safety protocols
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Additional Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age
- Score of 14/14 on Ishihara's test for color blindness
- Must pass pre‑employment assessment
- Drug screening requiredBackground check required
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Basic printing processes
- Safety procedures and protocols
- Quality control standards
- Food‑safety requirements
- Basic equipment operation
- Production documentation requirements
- Equipment operation
- Basic troubleshooting
- Quality inspection
- Attention to detail
- Team collaborationTime management
- Safety compliance
Physical Demands
- Must be able to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds
- Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods
- Must be able to successfully complete a color blind test
- Ability to work at heights
- Ability to climb, kneel, bend, stoop, reach, and squat
- Proficiency in grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine motor skills
- Ability to wear required PPE (hearing protection, steel‑toe shoes, safety glasses)
- Use of ladders and other equipment
Work Conditions
- Noise levels above 80 dB
- Operation of complex machinery
- Solvents, fumes, and inks
- Variable temperatures
- Must be able to work flexible shifts
- May require nights, weekends, and holidays
- An additional $2.50/hr premium for hours worked on night shift (7 pm‑7 am) only
Internal Requirements
- Must demonstrate core values
- Associates in formal or greater level of counseling are not eligible to apply
- Must have performer or higher rating in last review
- Demonstrated sense of urgency in production recovery situations
Printpack is a proud equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.
Printpack is committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist you with your application for employment or job search, please get in touch by sending an email to CorpRecruiting@Printpack.com. Please include a brief description of the accommodation you are requesting and the position for which you are interested in applying.