Step into the pressroom as our Heidelberg Sheetfed Offset Press Technician
Your day begins at the console, reviewing the job ticket and layout, translating specifications into a precise plan of action. You stage plates, dial in ink and water balance, and complete a thorough make-ready so the Heidelberg press is set to deliver consistent, on-spec sheets. As the run starts, you pull predetermined check sheets, verify color and registration, and fine-tune as needed to maintain Snyder’s safety and quality standards. Between jobs, you clean and service the press, record operating and maintenance details, and submit maintenance requests when needed. Throughout the shift, you collaborate with your supervisor and plant manager, handling additional tasks they assign to keep production moving.
What you’ll handle most of the time
- Operate and make-ready the Heidelberg offset press to meet Snyder Packaging quality expectations.
- Interpret job layouts and project specs; set up equipment for efficient production runs.
- Hang and position plates; establish ink and fountain solution levels; balance color and water.
- Monitor the run with scheduled pull sheets; inspect and correct for color, registration, and defects.
- Troubleshoot issues quickly to minimize downtime and waste.
- Clean and maintain the press; keep operating and maintenance records current.
- Submit maintenance requests as needed and perform other duties at the direction of the supervisor and plant manager.
- Adhere to Snyder’s safety protocols and quality standards at all times.
How your time typically breaks down
- ~80%: Make-ready and run the Heidelberg offset press to Snyder Pkg. quality standards.
- ~10%: Plate hanging/positioning; setting ink and water levels; related offset press operations.
- ~5%: Computer data entry and form completion.
- ~5%: Routine maintenance and cleaning.
Minimum qualifications
- Hands-on experience operating offset printing equipment and strong color vision.
- Shop math proficiency (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
- Intermediate English skills for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- Basic computer literacy (data entry, typing, printing, etc.).
- Comfort with measurements; able to measure accurately and read a ruler.
Key competencies
- Mechanical aptitude and pressroom savvy.
- Keen eye for defects and detail.
- Strong problem-solving under time and quality pressures.
- Working knowledge of printing, die cutting, and gluing processes.
Physical effort and environment
Expect manual loading, lifting, and some climbing while operating semi-automatic equipment. Work alternates between repetitive and intermittent tasks and is active and varied, requiring strength and good eyesight. This role is based in a general warehouse setting within a paperboard packaging facility, involving reaching, bending, and lifting; must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
Proficiency highlight