Press Operator- NIGHTs

TOPPAN Packaging Americas; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Employee Assistance Program

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

TOPPAN Packaging Americas is looking for a Press Operator in Hickory, NC, who will oversee the complete operation of the press, ensuring production goals and print quality are met. The candidate will train a Press Assistant, maintain print quality and adhere to safety protocols.

This position offers extensive benefits including medical coverage, 401(k) plans, and paid time off. Previous experience in printing, particularly flexographic printing is required, along with technical knowledge of inks and film properties.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in operating a printing press is mandatory.
• Understanding of company quality standards and procedures is essential.
• Experience fulfilling Press Assistant I and II requirements is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Oversee complete press operation ensuring production goals.
• Train and support the Press Assistant in running the press.
• Maintain print quality by adjusting settings and performing setups.
• Report and manage press maintenance needs effectively.
• Follow safety protocols in handling materials and waste.

Skills

Printing press experience

Flexographic printing experience

Multi-color web-fed printing presses operation

Technical knowledge of inks and films

Ability to read work orders and specifications

Education

Technical training or apprenticeship up to three years

Job description

Position

Press Operator

Location

Hickory

Shift

Night Shift | 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM | 12-hour 2-2-3 schedule

Pay Rate

$26.97/hour + $2.00/hour shift differential

Summary Description

The Press Operator reports directly to the Plant Superintendent and is responsible for the complete operation of the press, ensuring production goals, print quality, and safe execution of all printing processes while supporting team development and operational efficiency.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Meet and exceed machine production goals
• Assume full responsibility for complete press operation and production quality
• Direct and support the performance and ongoing training of the Press Assistant
• Train the assistant to run the press independently with minimal support when needed
• Perform full print job setup including plates, sleeves, ink match, make-ready, anilox rollers, and film verification
• Maintain print quality including print position, copy accuracy, UPC codes, registration, and impressions
• Place roll tickets and weights on each roll and maintain accurate Shop Floor computer records
• Return inks, plates, sleeves, film, and materials to correct locations with proper identification
• Report damaged or worn plates for replacement
• Use web monitoring systems effectively
• Demonstrate full understanding of make-ready sequence
• Apply tension controls appropriately across different substrates
• Set proper impression on plates and anilox rollers
• Draw off bag dimensions for finished and converted bags
• Adjust dot gains and densities to match proof requirements
• Complete plate mounting procedures using proper tapes and mounting methods
• Partner with maintenance on operator-based machine maintenance
• Handle hazardous waste according to trained procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shift Leader or Production Manager

We’d Love to Hear From You If

• Previous printing press experience is required
• You have flexographic printing experience on film and/or paper
• You have experience operating multi-color web-fed printing presses
• You understand company printing procedures and quality standards
• You have technical knowledge of inks, color, and film properties
• You can read and interpret work orders, artwork, and specification sheets
• You understand machine operating capabilities and press functions
• You have successfully fulfilled Press Assistant I and II requirements or equivalent experience
• You have technical training and/or apprenticeship experience up to three years as an operator

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources
• Paid time off and holidays
• Company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer

TOPPAN Packaging Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.