Press Assistant

The Press Assistant position supports press operations by performing essential support tasks, maintaining equipment cleanliness, assisting with material handling, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards. This entry‑level role provides foundational experience in printing operations with opportunities for advancement through demonstrated competency and skill development. Key Responsibilities Support press operator with quality monitoring, machine efficiency optimization, and future job staging for changeovers. Manage ink and coating systems including viscosity control, filling, and maintenance of inks, varnishes, adhesives, and cold seals. Execute material handling duties including roll preparation, loading, splicing, and removal of finished products and waste materials. Perform equipment maintenance including doctor blade changes, machine cleaning, and participation in scheduled Preventative Maintenance programs. Safely operate elevator and handle press components during changeovers, including management of print cylinders, aniloxes, doctor blade chambers, and ink pans. Prepare and organize pre‑setup materials such as sleeves, mandrels, anilox rolls, and inks for efficient job transitions. Maintain waste management procedures including weighing startup rolls and waste materials, and emptying refuse containers. Ensure compliance with Food Safety standards and 5S methodology through proper housekeeping and workplace organization. Monitor and replenish operational supplies including inks, adhesives, and other consumables while maintaining inventory levels. Support quality control processes by assisting with inspection procedures and maintaining cleanliness standards while following all safety protocols. Education & Experience High School diploma or equivalent preferred. Manufacturing experience preferred. Required Skills Basic mechanical aptitude. Ability to safely operate material handling equipment. Basic mathematical skills for measurements and calculations. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately. Strong teamwork and communication skills. Reliable attendance and punctuality. Strong attention to detail. Strong organizational skills. Basic computer literacy. Multi‑tasking capabilities. Problem identification skills. Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment. Willingness to learn and adapt to new procedures. Additional Requirements Must be 18 years of age. Must pass pre‑employment assessment. Drug screening required. Background check required. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Basic understanding of printing processes and equipment. Material handling requirements. Troubleshooting skills. Cleaning and maintenance procedures. Food safety standards. Safety compliance with protocols and procedures. Time management. Following standard operating procedures. Basic mathematical calculations. Physical Demands Exposure to the manufacturing environment with hazards and requirements including, but not limited to: lifting and moving up to 50 pounds; standing and walking for extended periods; climbing, kneeling, bending, reaching, stooping, and squatting; grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine motor skills; passing the Ishihara color test; climbing ladders and stairs safely; working at heights; wearing required PPE (hearing protection, steel‑toe shoes, safety glasses); and becoming certified in material handling equipment. Travel Requirements Travel is not required in this position. Work Conditions Noise levels above 80 dB. Operation of complex machinery. Solvents, fumes, and inks. Variable temperatures. Must work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Additional $2.50/hr premium for hours worked on NIGHT shift only. Equal Opportunity Statement Printpack is proudly an equal‑opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.Find your rights and government notices at: Know Your Rights, Conozca sus Derechos, Your Rights Under USERRA, FMLA, FMLA (Spanish), Polygraph Protection, Right to Work (Spanish). Benefits Printpack offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote wellness and provide protection for its associates and their families. Some of the competitive benefits include: Medical coverage Dental coverage Life insurance Short‑term and long‑term disability 401(k) Matching gift program Employee assistance programs Educational assistance Service awards #J-18808-Ljbffr