Press Operator

Printpack Inc; Jackson (TN); On-site; USD 26,799 - 38,168; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Life insurance

401(k) with employer match

Educational assistance

Service awards

Employee assistance programs

Short-term disability

Long-term disability

Job summary

Printpack Jackson is seeking an entry-level Press Operator I to safely operate printing equipment and maintain high quality. The role focuses on basic press operations, quality control, and adherence to safety and food safety standards while developing skills.

It reports to the Shift Supervisor and is a 2nd shift (3p–11p) with potential to move to 2nd or 3rd shifts. Starting pay is $23.58/hr with a $2.50/hr shift differential for night hours (7pm–7am).

Qualifications

• Must have basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to use measuring tools accurately.
• Reading layouts and writing clear reports is required.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and documentation is essential.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and operate printing equipment and all aspects of press operations.
• Perform complete job setup including cylinders, rolls, ink, and blades.
• Execute basic troubleshooting of equipment issues, quality, and specifications.
• Coordinate with other departments for job preparation and changeovers.
• Document production information accurately and maintain quality per customer specs.

Skills

Basic mechanical aptitude

Reading measuring tools

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety protocols

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

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. This is a 2nd shift (3p‑11p) Monday–Friday. Candidates must be willing to transition to either 2nd or 3rd shift. Starting pay is $23.58/hr with a $2.50/hr shift differential for hours worked between 7pm–7am.

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
• Ability 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
• A score of 14/14 on the Ishihara color‑blindness test
• Must pass pre‑employment assessment
• Drug screening required
• Background check required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic printing processes
• Safety procedures and protocols
• Quality control standards
• Food safety requirements
• Basic equipment operation
• Production documentation requirements
• Basic troubleshooting
• Quality inspection
• Attention to detail
• Team collaboration
• Time management
• Safety compliance

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift and handle 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‑toed shoes, safety glasses)
• Use of ladders and other equipment

Work Conditions

• Noise levels above 80 dB
• Operation of complex machinery
• Exposure to solvents, fumes, and inks
• Variable temperatures
• Must work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Additional $2.50/hr premium for hours worked on night shift (7pm–7am)

Internal Requirements

• Must demonstrate core values
• Associate with a formal or higher level of counseling is not eligible to apply
• Must have a performer or higher rating in the last review
• Demonstrated sense of urgency in production recovery situations

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Life insurance
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• Matching gift program
• Employee assistance programs
• Educational assistance
• Service awards

Equal Opportunity Employer

Printpack is a proud equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, age, disability, military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment.