Press Assistant - Day Shift

Press Assistant

The Press Assistant is a vital member of the production team, responsible for supporting the Press Operator in the efficient setup, operation, changeover, and maintenance of printing presses. This role combines technical assistance with a structured learning path toward becoming a professional Press Operator. The Press Assistant ensures the timely production of high-quality materials by preparing supplies, performing routine maintenance, and conducting quality checks. Success in this role requires a strong mechanical aptitude, a safety-first attitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with a high sense of urgency.

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Responsibilities and Activities

• Assists the Press Operator with machine setup procedures and leads quick changes from one job to the next. This includes measuring materials, preparing the workspace, mounting/changing plates, cleaning rollers, and feeding paper.
• Supports the Operator in running the machine at optimal speeds; learns to make minor adjustments to ensure productivity and minimize waste. Tends the press in the absence of the Press Operator.
• Mixes ink in accordance with PMS or Joules PMS books. Performs routine cleaning of ink fountains, plates, and press units.
• Locates, stages, and pulls necessary supplies/stock to and from the press. Lifts and positions rolls of paper into the feed mechanism and processes finished pallets.
• Maintains the cleanliness of machinery and the organization of the workspace to ensure equipment longevity and a hazard-free environment.
• Conducts frequent visual quality checks to identify common print defects (e.g., color shift, hickeys, set-off); reports findings immediately to the Operator to uphold quality standards.
• Tracks and records job counts, make-ready status, and waste metrics with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Participates in training to develop technical skills in offset print production and software-driven mechanical systems.
• Maintains clear verbal and written communication with the Operator and Team Lead regarding job status, supply needs, and production concerns.
• Exhibits a safety-first attitude by adhering to all departmental Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), proper PPE compliance, and lock-out/tag-out procedures.
• Performs additional responsibilities as required to ensure the team's success.

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.

Work Experience:

• Six months as a machine operator or 2 years' experience running production equipment preferred.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing, production, or physical labor environment is a plus.
• Experience with computers and software-driven mechanical systems preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Technical Aptitude: Strong mechanical aptitude with a genuine enthusiasm for learning complex industrial processes and the ability to read/understand job tickets.
• Equipment Operation: Ability to use machinery such as Forklifts, Pallet Jacks, and Walkie Riders.
• Physical Stamina: Able to stand and move around the press area for long periods (on concrete floors), bend, kneel, twist, and stoop throughout the day.
• Lifting Requirements: Ability to lift up to 30 pounds from floor to waist regularly and occasionally up to 40 pounds; occasional lifting above the shoulders.
• Work Environment: Ability to work around various chemicals such as press wash and inks.
• Professionalism: Reliable, punctual, and able to work in a fast-paced environment with a high sense of urgency.
• Collaboration: Effective communicator with good interpersonal skills; able to work independently or as part of a team.
• Availability: Willingness to work overtime and occasional shifts other than the primary assignment as required.