Press Operator

Printing Press Operator - Direct Hire - 3rd Shift

As a Printing Press Operator, you will be responsible for the preparation and operation of a tandem (2-color) offset lithography press line with a trailing coater. This role requires considerable skill to maintain proper ink balance and registration. You will oversee the daily work schedule and interpret orders for special setups and procedures, ensuring that all necessary supplies, such as press plates and inks, are prepared and utilized effectively.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the complete press in very close tolerances, including mechanical gauging, setting of press plates, blanket, ink, and water rollers.
• Ensure the function of the complete line of equipment, including feeder and tender assignments.
• Train and supervise the Press Feeder and instruct the oven tender on sheet piling for specific jobs.
• Indicate during runs which sheets are to be kept separate or discarded as spoilage.
• Adjust oven heats for correct baking and check this with every load during a run.
• Adjust ink for proper running, place it in the fountain, and adjust controls for proper coverage.
• Adjust register and develop correct lay and color for supervisor's approval.
• Maintain lithographic quality with correct color and registry throughout the run.
• Check sheets at the discharge end for proper drying and color control, and keep ink and water fountains supplied.
• Retime press registry system when necessary and assemble all required color samples for new or repeat jobs.
• Supervise the setup of the trailing coater, ensuring correct materials are used and proper coverage and quality are obtained.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in operating a printing press, specifically offset lithography.
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Experience in print press setup and operation.
• Capability in quality inspection.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience in machine operation.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Ability to adjust register and develop correct lay and color.
• Maintain lithographic quality with correct color and registry.
• Check for proper drying and color control.
• Supervise set-up of trailing coater and ensure operating functions are optimal.

Why Work Here?

Employees enjoy a supportive work environment with recently enhanced bereavement policies, offering additional paid time off for immediate family. The Health, Safe, and Personal (HSP) Time Policy provides 40 hours of flexible paid time off annually, separate from vacation. Additionally, the company offers 12 paid holidays, 100% paid parental leave, and opportunities for paid volunteer work, fostering a strong sense of community involvement.

Work Environment

The lithography department offers a climate-controlled environment with a close-knit culture.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Rockford, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $72633.60 - $82388.80/yr. Medical Insurance Dental/Vision/Hearing Insurance Company Paid Life Insurance Supplemental Life Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts 401(k) Plan with Company Match Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rockford, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 23, 2026.