Press Operator

Smurfit Westrock plc; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock plc is seeking a Press Operator A in Raleigh, North Carolina. This role involves leading Assistant Press Operators, operating sheet-fed offset printing presses, and ensuring high-quality printing outcomes. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and 1-2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment. Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills are essential. The position requires physical stamina, including the ability to lift over 50 pounds, and adherence to safety regulations.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years experience operating a multi-color printing press in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of measurements required.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and follow both written and verbal instructions.

Responsibilities

• Lead, direct, and monitor work of Assistant Press Operators.
• Operate sheet-fed offset printing presses for single and multicolor prints.
• Maintain registration and color density during production runs.

Skills

Mathematical skills

Problem-solving abilities

Teamwork

Ability to follow instructions

Minimal supervision

Education

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Job description

General Purpose

The Press Operator A is accountable for all aspects of press performance. This position leads, directs, and monitors the work of Assistant Press Operators and oversees feeder and jogger functions. The Press Operator A makes ready and operates sheet-fed offset printing presses to print single- and multicolor copy from lithographic plates.

Essential Job Functions

• Record sheet counts and perform line clearance.
• Review job orders to determine quantities, stock specifications, colors, and special printing instructions.
• Verify copy against customer approval or signed color standards.
• Set plates and fountains to achieve correct ink thickness on rollers and save plate settings to the computer.
• Fill ink and dampening solution fountains and adjust controls to regulate flow to the plate cylinder.
• Apply packing sheets to blanket cylinders to achieve proper blanket thickness.
• Load, remove, install, and lock printing and coating plates.
• Start press and inspect printed output for ink density, positioning, and registration accuracy.
• Set up scanning densitometer and save configuration settings.
• Utilize a spectrophotometer to achieve and maintain accurate color.
• Adjust press settings throughout production runs to maintain registration and color density.
• Remove and clean coating plates, printing blankets, and cylinders.
• Assist with press repair and preventative maintenance activities.
• Train and mentor Press Operator B and C employees.
• Comply with all company regulations, policies, work procedures, safety rules, and security requirements.
• Perform all duties in accordance with established safety policies, including the use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Support department compliance with 5S and SQF guidelines and immediately report food safety concerns.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Printing Manager or Shift Supervisor.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• One to two years of work-related experience operating a multi-color printing press in a manufacturing environment, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong mathematical skills and understanding of measurements.
• Strong problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Employees are required to stand, walk, talk, see, and hear for extended periods during a 12-hour workday. The role requires frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, carrying, walking, grasping, pushing/pulling, reaching, and lifting up to and over 50 pounds, including overhead lifting.

Vision Requirements

This position requires close vision (20 inches or less), distance vision (20 feet or more), peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

The noise level in the work environment is typically moderate.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.