Press Operator

Priority Dispatch Corp.; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 24,796 - 35,817; Full time

Job summary

Salem One in Winston-Salem, NC is seeking a Press Operator to set up and run press equipment, ensure color and registration accuracy, and perform in-process quality checks. You will troubleshoot issues with Prepress, Scheduling, Maintenance, and Finishing to meet delivery commitments and reduce waste, while maintaining detailed production records.

The role requires 3+ years of press operation experience in manufacturing, familiarity with ERP/MIS systems, and a commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or coursework in printing/graphic communications preferred.
• 3+ years of hands-on press operation experience in a manufacturing environment (sheetfed, web, or digital press experience as applicable).
• Demonstrated ability to perform makeready/setup, troubleshoot print defects, and maintain quality standards in a high-mix environment.
• Ability to interpret job tickets, specifications, and work instructions; strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Working knowledge of safety requirements (PPE, machine guarding, safe material handling); ability to lift and handle materials as required.
• Basic computer skills and ability to document production metrics in ERP/MIS systems; dependable communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate press equipment (makeready, registration, ink/toner control, substrate handling) to meet job specifications and quality standards.
• Perform in-process inspections and quality checks (color/registration, defects, measurements) and make necessary adjustments to maintain conformance.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and workflow issues; coordinate with Prepress, Scheduling, Maintenance, and Finishing to resolve constraints and protect delivery commitments.
• Execute efficient changeovers and job transitions; verify materials, job tickets, and press condition to support throughput and reduce waste.
• Complete required production reporting, downtime documentation, and checklists in ERP/MIS systems; communicate status during shift handoffs.
• Perform routine equipment care and assigned preventive maintenance tasks (cleaning, lubrication checks, roller/blanket care as applicable) and escalate repairs promptly.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area using 5S; follow PPE and safety requirements and report hazards/incidents immediately.

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:The Press Operator operates and sets up press equipment to produce high-quality product that meets customer specifications, safety requirements, and production schedules. This skilled role performs advanced makeready, troubleshooting, and in-process quality control while maintaining accurate production documentation and supporting continuous improvement.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:Set up and operate press equipment (makeready, registration, ink/toner control, substrate handling) to meet job specifications and quality standards.Perform in-process inspections and quality checks (color/registration, defects, measurements) and make necessary adjustments to maintain conformance.Troubleshoot mechanical and workflow issues; coordinate with Prepress, Scheduling, Maintenance, and Finishing to resolve constraints and protect delivery commitments.Execute efficient changeovers and job transitions; verify materials, job tickets, and press condition to support throughput and reduce waste.Complete required production reporting, downtime documentation, and checklists in ERP/MIS systems; communicate status during shift handoffs.Perform routine equipment care and assigned preventive maintenance tasks (cleaning, lubrication checks, roller/blanket care as applicable) and escalate repairs promptly.Maintain a clean and safe work area using 5S; follow PPE and safety requirements and report hazards/incidents immediately.QUALIFICATIONS:High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or coursework in printing/graphic communications preferred.3+ years of hands-on press operation experience in a manufacturing environment (sheetfed, web, or digital press experience as applicable).Demonstrated ability to perform makeready/setup, troubleshoot print defects, and maintain quality standards in a high-mix environment.Ability to interpret job tickets, specifications, and work instructions; strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.Working knowledge of safety requirements (PPE, machine guarding, safe material handling); ability to lift and handle materials as required.Basic computer skills and ability to document production metrics in ERP/MIS systems; dependable communication and teamwork.About Salem OneSalem One is the largest independently-owned packaging, print, direct marketing/mail company in NC and SC and one of the largest in the Southeast, delivering award-winning products and services to leading local, regional and national corporations and brands. The company is based in Winston Salem, NC and operates a full-service direct marketing division in Kernersville, NC. Salem One has been recognized by Printing Impressions magazine as a Top 400 printer, as one of the Top Workplaces in the Triad by the Greensboro News and Record and as one of the 5000 Fastest growing companies in America by Inc. Magazine. More details about Salem One can be obtained by visiting www.salem-one.com.Salem One is an Equal Opportunity Employer.