Press Operator / Setup - Portage Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Portage (MI); On-site; USD 49,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking a Press Operator / Setup in Portage, MI. This role focuses on operating and setting up press machinery, ensuring quality checks, and maintaining a clean, safe workspace.

The opportunity connects manufacturing talent with West Michigan partner companies. Ideal candidates have 2–3 years of experience in press operation, blueprint reading, and strong mechanical aptitude, with the ability to lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical documents.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and adjustments.
• Experience with quality control using measurement tools.
• Ability to lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing press machines according to production schedules.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures for various press runs, including tooling adjustments.
• Conduct in-process quality checks and make necessary adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical or operational issues on press equipment.
• Load and unload materials and finished products from press machines.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to all safety protocols.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Mechanical troubleshooting

Quality control

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Press operation

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Press Operator / Setup | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $49,000 - $76,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Portage seeking Press Operator / Setups.

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 Portage 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 according to production schedules.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures for various press runs, including tooling adjustments.
• Conduct in-process quality checks and make necessary adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical or operational issues on press equipment.
• Load and unload materials and finished products from press machines.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to all safety protocols.

Recommended Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical documents.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting, maintenance, and precise adjustments.
• Experience with quality control processes, including using measurement tools (calipers, micrometers).
• Ability to lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods, performing physical tasks.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with preventative maintenance or basic machine repair.
• Forklift certification or experience operating a forklift.
• Proficiency with computer systems for data entry or machine control.
• Strong mechanical aptitude beyond basic operation.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Printing Press Operator, Setup Operator, Offset Pressman, Flexo Press Operator, Digital Press Operator, Machine Operator - Printing, Print Production Specialist, Press Technician, Print Operator, Lithographer

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.