Press Operator II

USA TODAY Co., Inc.; Rockaway (NJ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equal opportunity employer

Potential for shift work

Job summary

A leading media company in Rockaway, NJ, seeks a dedicated Press Operator II for full-time shift work. The role involves operating double wide presses, ensuring production quality, and maintaining equipment. Candidates should possess proficiency in Mitsubishi or similar press operations and demonstrate strong organizational skills. Physical demands include the ability to lift up to 75 pounds and stand for extended periods. Commitment to deadlines in a fast-paced environment is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience with newspaper press operations.
• Ability to work in fast-paced environments and meet deadlines.
• Physical ability to lift/carry 75 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily production on double wide presses.
• Operate as Primary Ink setting or Folder operator.
• Manage advanced press operational controls and equipment maintenance.

Skills

Proficiency in Mitsubishi presses

Knowledge of printing techniques

Ability to read and layout press diagrams

Proficiency in reel room operations

Strong organizational skills

Forklift certification

Tools

Microsoft software

Job description

Overview

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company with expansive reach at the national and local level dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. We seek to inspire, inform, and connect audiences as a sustainable, growth focused media and digital marketing solutions company. Through our trusted brands, including the USA TODAY NETWORK, and LocaliQ, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital experiences to audiences and businesses.

Press Operator II — Rockaway, NJ (Gannett Publishing Services) is a full-time position focused on daily production on double wide presses under the direction of press management and supervisors.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily production on double wide presses.
• Operate as Primary Ink setting or Folder operator as assigned.
• Oversee plate processing, spotting plates, reel set-up and operation, newsprint staging, roll preparation, and CMYK ink setting.
• Manage advanced press operational controls and equipment maintenance; perform specified reporting.
• Support efficient press operations to achieve on-time production, product quality standards, low waste, and safety.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Proficiency in Mitsubishi, Wifag or similar newspaper press operations and functions.
• Knowledge of printing techniques, basic ink/water balance, and press quality standards.
• Ability to read and layout press diagrams to accommodate color demand while maintaining labor and waste efficiencies.
• Understanding of how to layout press runs, install leads, and switch angle bars.
• Proficiency in all reel room operations and procedures; understanding reel functions including tensioning and roll delivery systems.
• Ability to adapt to change, prioritize work, handle multiple tasks, remain flexible, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Forklift and clamp truck certification is a plus.
• Strong organizational and computer skills, including knowledge of general business software (Microsoft).
• Physical requirements: ability to lift/carry up to 75 pounds; push/pull up to 2000 pounds; ability to stand for extended periods; climb stairs on a six-level press structure; ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl; color vision required.
• Willingness to work full-time shift with potential scheduled nights, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits and Work Environment

This position is full-time shift work, which may include scheduled nights, weekends, and holidays.

Equal Opportunity

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. We consider all qualified applicants and do not discriminate in employment decisions on protected characteristics and other legally protected statuses.

Applicants who require reasonable accommodation to complete this employment application or any other process should contact the Recruitment Department at [e-mail]. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location. Applications from outside these regions will be removed from our system after submission.