Press Operator

Printpack Inc; Rhinelander (WI); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

401(k)

Job summary

Printpack Inc. is seeking an entry-level Press Operator I to operate printing equipment and support the production team in a manufacturing environment. The role emphasizes safety, basic press operations, quality control, and adherence to procedures.

You will learn to set up cylinders, ink, and blades, perform changeovers, and document production details while building foundational expertise. Shift flexibility and teamwork are essential to success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma preferred; manufacturing/printing experience beneficial but not required.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read measuring tools and record accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and safety compliance.
• Ability to work rotating shifts and adapt to production needs.

Responsibilities

• Operate printing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Set up print cylinders, anilox rolls, ink, and doctor blades.
• Troubleshoot basic equipment issues and ensure print quality.
• Make color adjustments and manage changeovers.
• Perform quality checks and uphold product specs.
• Support training for new operators and safety protocols.
• Coordinate with other departments for job prep and issues.
• Document production data accurately and maintain records.
• Prepare and wash press; manage hazardous materials per safety rules.
• Contribute to team goals while prioritizing safety.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Measuring tools

Attention to detail

Documentation

Computer literacy

Organization

Communication

Math basics

Safety protocols

Report writing

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

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.

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
• Managing hazardous materials and waste according to safety protocols
• Support team activities and contribute to process decisions
• Collaborates 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
• *Not in all PPK Locations

Education & Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred
• Manufacturing experience beneficial, not required
• Printing experience beneficial, not required

Required Skills:

• Basic Mechanical Aptitude and troubleshooting abilities
• Ability to read and use measuring tools accurately
• 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
• 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
• Equipment operation Basic troubleshooting Quality inspection Attention to Detail Team collaboration Time management Safety compliance Physical Demands

Physical Demands:

• The associate will be exposed to the manufacturing environment where hazards and requirements may include but are not limited to:
• 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‑toe shoes, safety glasses)
• Use of ladders and other equipment

Travel Requirements:

• Travel is not required in this position.

Work Conditions:

• The majority of tasks will be performed in a manufacturing setting with exposure to:
• 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 only (qualifying hours vary by location).

Internal Requirements:

• Must demonstrate Core Values
• Must be in good standing with no disciplinary action or attendance issues
• Must have performer or higher rating in last review
• Demonstrated sense of urgency in production recovery situations
• Printpack is proudly an equal‑opportunity employer.

Printpack is committed to creating an inclusive environment. Embracing diversity enhances our work culture and is vital to our success.

We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, marital status, military or veteran status or affiliation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

To view your rights and government notices, please see the links below:

• Know Your Rights
• Conozca sus Derechos
• Your Rights Under USERRA (dol.gov)
• FMLA
• FMLA (Spanish)
• Polygraph Protection
• Right to Work
• Right to Work (Spanish)

Printpack is committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs.

Printpack is one of the most innovative and progressive packaging companies in the world and it embodies the employee‑centric values established by its founder, J. Erskine Love Jr. in 1956.

Printpack’s competition can buy the same equipment and materials, but the difference has always been the people who walk their plant floors and stroll through their hallways.

There is no question that Printpack’s associates are a major factor in why their customers have faithfully relied on the Printpack level of service for over 60 years.

Printpack offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote wellness and provide protection for its associates and their families. Some of their competitive benefits include medical coverage, dental coverage, life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability, 401(k), matching gift program, employee assistance programs, educational assistance, and service awards.

The Printpack Statement of Philosophy reflects on a commitment to their associates and a belief that they should “provide opportunities for personal fulfillment and growth commensurate with each individual’s highest level of competence and degree of contribution.”

As an equal opportunity employer, Printpack remains focused on creating an inclusive environment. One that embraces diversity as an enhancement to their work culture and a vital contributor to their success.

Printpack is “Converting Vision into Value” for their associates, their community, their customers, and hopefully…for you.