Press Operator / Setup - Kentwood Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kentwood (MI); On-site; USD 43,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking a Press Operator / Setup in Kentwood, MI to join our manufacturing-focused network. You will operate and monitor press machines, perform setup/changeovers, and ensure production runs meet specifications.

Candidates typically bring 3–5 years of press operation experience, ability to read blueprints, and strong measurement skills with calipers and micrometers. Forklift experience is a plus. This role emphasizes safety, quality, and documentation compliance.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses (e.g., stamping, forming, hydraulic).
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
• Experience performing quality checks using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and maintenance on press equipment.
• Ability to lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing press machines.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures for various production runs.
• Conduct quality checks and adjust processes to meet specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor machine malfunctions.
• Load and unload materials and finished products from the press.
• Maintain production records and documentation.
• Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean work area.

Skills

Press operation

Setup/changeover

Quality checks

Troubleshooting

Material handling

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Forklift operation

Job description

Press Operator / Setup | Kentwood, MI

Salary Range: $43,000 - $68,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for excelling in press operator / setup? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Kentwood, seeking experienced Press Operator / Setups to strengthen their teams.

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. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Kentwood seeking Press Operator / Setups who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing press machines.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures for various production runs.
• Conduct quality checks and make adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor machine malfunctions and production issues.
• Load and unload materials and finished products from the press.
• Maintain accurate production records and complete required documentation.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and maintain a clean work environment.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses (e.g., stamping, forming, hydraulic).
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
• Demonstrated ability to perform quality checks using precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and performing minor maintenance on press equipment.
• Ability to lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods in a manufacturing environment.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience operating a forklift or other material handling equipment.
• Basic computer proficiency for data entry and system navigation.
• Ability to perform minor machine adjustments or preventative maintenance.
• Prior experience with quality inspection tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers).
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles or 5S methodology.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Press Operator, Printing Press Operator, Flexo Press Operator, Lithographic Press Operator, Offset Press Operator, Digital Press Operator, Press Setup Technician, Printing Machine Operator, Print Finisher

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. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.