Press Operator / Setup - Traverse City Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Traverse City (MI); On-site; USD 41,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Traverse City, MI seeks an experienced Press Operator/Setup to join our manufacturing-focused talent network. This role will operate and set up presses, perform tool changes, and ensure parts meet specifications. Strong blueprint reading, mechanical aptitude, and basic measurement skills are required.

Join a team that emphasizes safety, quality, and steady production. This position is full-time, on-site in Traverse City, with a salary range and growth potential based

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses (e.g., stamping, hydraulic, or mechanical).
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with experience using precision measuring tools.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve minor machine issues.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing presses to produce parts according to specifications.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures on presses, including tooling adjustments and material loading.
• Conduct in-process quality checks using various measuring tools to ensure product meets quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor operational issues, escalating complex problems to maintenance or supervisors.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to all safety protocols and procedures.
• Complete production documentation accurately, including run sheets and quality control logs.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Quality checks

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Press Operator / Setup | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $41,000 - $66,000 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 Traverse City 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. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Traverse City that are seeking skilled Press Operator / Setups. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor manufacturing presses to produce parts according to specifications.
• Perform setup and changeover procedures on presses, including tooling adjustments and material loading.
• Conduct in-process quality checks using various measuring tools to ensure product meets quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor operational issues, escalating complex problems to maintenance or supervisors.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to all safety protocols and procedures.
• Complete production documentation accurately, including run sheets and quality control logs.

Recommended Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years experience operating and setting up manufacturing presses (e.g., stamping, hydraulic, or mechanical).
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and work instructions.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with experience using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.).
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve minor machine issues.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with preventative maintenance on machinery
• Forklift certification or experience operating a forklift
• Basic computer skills for data entry or machine interface
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints or technical diagrams

Job Titles That Should Apply

Printing Press Operator, Setup Press Operator, Pressman, Offset Press Operator, Digital Press Operator, Large Format Press Operator, Printing Technician, Machine Operator - Printing, Print Production Specialist, Prepress Technician

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.