Press Operator

Smurfit Westrock; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Press Operator A to manage all aspects of press performance on a sheet‑fed offset press. The incumbent will lead junior operators, set up plates, adjust ink densities, and verify color accuracy, while ensuring adherence to safety policies and SQF guidelines.

The role requires standing for long periods in a 12‑hour shift, lifting up to 50 pounds, and mentoring Assistant Press Operators.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• 1–2 years of experience operating a multi‑color printing press in a manufacturing environment or equivalent mix of education/experience.
• Strong mathematical skills and understanding of measurements.
• Proficient computer skills.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Fill ink and dampening solution fountains and adjust controls to regulate flow to the plate cylinder.
• Load, remove, install, and lock printing and coating plates.
• Start press and inspect printed output for ink density, positioning, and registration accuracy.
• Utilize spectrophotometer to achieve and maintain accurate color.

Skills

Mathematics

Computer skills

Teamwork

Problem solving

Reading/comprehension

Following instructions

Self supervision

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.

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.
• Proficient computer skills.
• 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.

Work Environment

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.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.