Press Operator / Setup - Grand Rapids Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 48,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Grand Rapids, MI is seeking an experienced Press Operator / Setup to operate and monitor manufacturing presses and to perform setup and changeover procedures. Responsibilities include conducting in‑process quality checks, troubleshooting minor machine issues, loading and unloading materials, and maintaining accurate production logs in a clean, safe work environment.

Requirements: high school diploma or GED, 2+ years of press experience (printing, stamping, hydraulic or

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses (e.g., stamping, hydraulic, mechanical).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
• Proven mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and minor maintenance of press machinery.
• Experience with precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Strong safety awareness in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing presses to produce parts per specifications.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures for various press machines, including tooling adjustments.
• Conduct in‑process quality checks and adjust to maintain product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor machine malfunctions and production issues.
• Load and unload materials and finished products from presses.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area following safety protocols.
• Accurately complete production logs and required documentation.

Skills

Press operation

Setup/changeover

Quality checks

Troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Blueprint reading

Job description

Press Operator / Setup | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $48,000 - $75,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for excelling in press operator / setup? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Press Operator / Setups to drive results.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Press Operator / Setups. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing presses to produce parts according to specifications.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures for various press machines, including tooling adjustments.
• Conduct in-process quality checks and make necessary adjustments to maintain product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor machine malfunctions and production issues.
• Load and unload materials and finished products from presses.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to safety protocols.
• Accurately complete production logs and other required documentation.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 2+ years experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses (e.g., stamping, hydraulic, mechanical).
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
• Proven mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and minor maintenance of press machinery.
• Experience with precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Strong understanding of safety protocols and practices in a manufacturing environment.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience operating a forklift or other material handling equipment.
• Basic computer proficiency for data entry and machine interface interaction.
• Prior experience in a quality control or inspection role within manufacturing.
• Ability to perform minor machine maintenance or troubleshooting.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Printing Press Operator, Setup Pressman, Offset Press Operator, Flexographic Press Operator, Digital Press Operator, Lithographer, Plate Maker, Pressman, Print Production Specialist, Machine Operator - Printing

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.