Printing Press Operator / Apprentice

Printing Partners, Inc.; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on training

Long-term stability

Industry-leading technology

401(k)

401(k) matching

Disability insurance

Employee assistance program

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Job summary

Printing Partners in Indianapolis invites applications for a Press Apprentice Program. Start as a Press Feeder and learn Heidelberg offset press operations, with hands-on training and mentorship from experienced operators.

The program aims to develop you into Lead Press Operator within 3–5 years, with opportunities for those who already have offset press experience. This is a full-time, on-site role emphasizing safety and quality.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Good math and computer skills.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift materials.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Offset printing experience preferred but not required.
• Commitment to safety in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Review work instructions and job specifications.
• Prepare and calibrate machinery; adjust press settings for color, registration, and other parameters.
• Install printing plates, load paper, and fill ink fountains.
• Inspect proof sheets and ensure color accuracy and alignment.
• Identify and resolve issues such as paper jams or ink inconsistencies.
• Maintain records of production and press settings.
• Follow safety protocols and keep a clean work area.
• Assist with other press operations as needed.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Good math skills

Good computer skills

Strong communication skills

Reliable attendance

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

929 West 16th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Full-time

Company Description

Printing Partners has been a trusted name in commercial printing since 1989. Based in Indianapolis, we deliver a full range of services including design, offset and digital printing, finishing, mailing, and more. As a G7® Master Colorspace Qualified Printer, an ISO 9001:2015 certified facility, and an FSC® Chain of Custody certified company, we are committed to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Our 115+ team members take pride in ensuring every project exceeds expectations, on time and at a competitive price.

Job Overview

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our Press Apprentice Program. This position begins as a Press Feeder, where you’ll support Heidelberg offset press operations and learn the fundamentals of the trade. Over time, you will transition into an Apprentice Press Operator, receiving hands-on training directly from experienced operators and Heidelberg subject matter experts.

The goal of this program is to develop the right candidate into a Lead Press Operator within 3-5 years.

Already have offset press experience? That is fine, we are also open to interviewing experienced Press Operators.

Duties

Machine Setup & Preparation

• Review work instructions and job specifications.
• Prepare and calibrate machinery; adjust press settings for color, registration, and other parameters as required.
• Install printing plates, load paper, and fill ink fountains.

Monitoring Print Quality

• Inspect proof sheets and compare printed pieces to color proofs.
• Check print quality regularly for color accuracy, alignment, and consistency, making adjustments as needed.
• Monitor the printing process to ensure production meets all standards and specifications.
• Identify and resolve issues such as paper jams, ink inconsistencies, or mechanical malfunctions.
• Work closely with team members to maintain workflow efficiency and meet deadlines.
• Participate in customer press checks when required.

Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance to keep equipment in proper working order.
• Remove and clean plates, blankets, and cylinders.

Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate records of production, materials used, and press settings.
• Update maintenance and service logs.

Additional Duties

• Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean work area.
• Assist with other tasks related to press operation as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Strong mechanical aptitude (required)
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions precisely
• Good math and computer skills
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift materials as needed
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Strong communication skills, written and verbal
• Offset printing experience preferred but not required
• Commitment to safety in a manufacturing environment

What We Offer

• Hands-on training with Heidelberg experts and seasoned operators
• Long-term stability with a well-established, family-owned company
• Opportunity to work with industry-leading technology
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience

• Offset Press: 1 year (Required)
• Heidelberg Offset Press: 1 year (Preferred)

Shift Availability

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute

• Indianapolis, IN 46202 (Required)

Learn More

About Printing Partners

Since 1989, Printing Partners has grown from a family-owned shop into one of Indiana's leading commercial printers. With over 115 employees, ISO 9001 certification, FSC® credentials, and G7® Master Colorspace qualification, we deliver reliable quality, sustainable practices, and personal service.

Founded by brothers Michael and Joel O'Brien, Printing Partners began as a small quick-print operation in downtown Indianapolis. Through decades of innovation and investment in state-of-the-art presses, the company has become a trusted print partner for businesses, nonprofits, and the arts community across the region.