Printer Operator | Various 12-Hour Shifts

genpakexternalcareersite; Alabama; On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Genpak is hiring for a Set up, operate, and maintain role focused on cylindrical clam shell items. You will lead color accuracy, troubleshoot issues, and drive safe, efficient production in a 12-hour shift.

Candidates should have 3–5 years as a press operator, familiarity with dry offset presses, and a strong eye for color and detail. Training and safety compliance are essential in this team-driven environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED with 3–5 years as a machine operator; printing experience is a plus.
• Experience operating dry offset presses and basic color management knowledge.
• LOTO and powered industrial truck certifications or training provided.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain dry offset presses for cylindrical items.
• Adjust ink flow, speed, and registration for color accuracy.
• Monitor control panels and visually inspect prints for defects.
• Troubleshoot jams and issues to minimize waste and downtime.
• Train crew members and enforce safety rules and hygiene/PPE protocols.
• Read work orders, manage materials, and perform routine maintenance.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Troubleshooting

Leadership / training

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Densitometer

Spectrophotometer

Calipers / measurement tools

PLC / machine controls

Job description

ROLE:Set up, operate, and maintain specialized pressesfor cylindrical items (clam shell), focusing onprecision quality control (color, register),troubleshootingissues like jams or defects, managing materials (plates, ink), and ensuring safety, while often providingleadership and trainingto press crews for efficient production.

KEY JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Install printing plates and blankets, load clamshell on the feed table.

• Adjust ink flow, speed, and registration for optimal print.

• Monitor control panels during runs.
• Perform visual checks and parts to spot imperfections.
• Ensure color matching, proper register (alignment), and dryness.
• Make real-time adjustments to correct issues and minimize waste.
• Perform daily cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs (preventative maintenance).
• Quickly address jams and technical problems.
• Read work orders and understand job specifications.
• Manage material supplies (inks, blankets, solvent, etc.) and plan for upcoming jobs.
• Train other crew members in processes and equipment.
• Assist with brakes and lunch.
• Enforce safety rules and follow hygiene/PPE protocols.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Excellent eye for detail and color.
• Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve quickly.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE:

• Press Operation:Setting up, running, adjusting, and maintaining dry offset presses (R&D Printers), including feeder, printer, & stacker systems.
• Pre-Press:Understanding job specifications, plate mounting, and preparing files for the specific process.
• Ink & Color Management:Knowledge of fast-drying ink, color matching (CMYK/Pantone), density control, and using tools like densitometers.
• Substrate Handling:Expertise with plastics or Styrofoam
• Quality Control:Visual inspection, using spectrophotometers, and ensuring accurate registration and defect identification.
• Maintenance:Performing routine cleaning, lubrication, and basic troubleshooting (e.g., plate wear, ink issues).
• Problem-Solving:Diagnosing and fixing issues with ink, registration, or machine malfunctions quickly to maintain production.

SAFETY:

• Demonstrated ability to comply with all Company policies and procedures and to uphold, support and exemplify the safety programs and standards.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• High School Diploma or GED, with 3-5 years prior machine operator experience; printing experience a plus.
• Experience working with machinery.
• Strong interpersonal skills to be able to train, communicate, and lead effectively.
• Demonstrated analytical thinking skills and problem-solving skills.
• LOTO Certification (Inhouse training and licensing).
• Powered Industrial truck Certification (Inhouse training and licensing).

ADA – ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Must be able to:

• Work a 12-hour shift with overtime as required
• Ability to stand and walk for a minimum of 11 hours during a 12-hour shift.
• Strong organizational skills with proven ability to complete multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to climb ladders. Stoop, Kneel, Crouch or Crawl: 10% of the shift.
• Ability to lift 35 lbs.
• Speak and hear constantly.
• Use of fingers, hands and arms constantly.

Genpak is an Equal Opportunity Employer