Press Operator – 1st & 2nd Shift
Position Summary
Arrow International is looking for dependable and motivated Press Operators to join our manufacturing team. Due to upcoming retirements and long-tenured employees transitioning out of the department, we currently have opportunities available on both 1st and 2nd shift.
This is a Monday through Friday position with opportunities for overtime.
- 1st Shift: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM
- 2nd Shift: Monday–Friday, 3:00 PM–11:00 PM
The Press Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and troubleshooting press equipment while ensuring each job meets established quality and production standards.
This is a great opportunity for someone with manufacturing, production, machine operation, or printing experience who is looking to build a long-term career with a growing organization. We are looking for individuals who take pride in their work, have strong attention to detail, and are willing to learn.
The role offers hands-on training, strong growth potential, and opportunities for advancement within the department.
Primary Responsibilities
- Operate press equipment safely and efficiently according to production schedules and work instructions.
- Work from work orders, schedules, first articles, database files, ticket tab visuals, written instructions, and verbal direction.
- Complete daily press setup, first transfer, and color calibration.
- Change databases, blankets, impression paper, PIP, stock, and other materials as required.
- Check color, registration, and overall print quality throughout production runs.
- Load the press with the appropriate type, size, and color of paper stock.
- Select appropriate print modes based on quality, color, and production speed requirements.
- Clean ink reservoirs, press components, cylinders, and related equipment.
- Monitor press performance and troubleshoot equipment or production issues.
- Make adjustments, minor repairs, or replace parts as needed.
- Utilize technical or phone support when additional troubleshooting assistance is required.
- Identify and report equipment problems, defective materials, improper operations, and quality concerns.
- Follow up on equipment repairs and communicate ongoing issues to press room management.
- Minimize waste, spoilage, and printing errors while maintaining production standards.
- Coordinate job and production information with employees on other shifts.
- Complete assigned work accurately and within expected production timelines.
- Maintain proper care of tools, equipment, materials, and work areas.
- Follow all company safety rules, policies, and departmental procedures.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
- Develop knowledge of press operations and share information with crew members and departmental personnel.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Previous manufacturing, production, machine operation, printing, or press experience preferred.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Dependable and safety-focused with a strong work ethic.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Ability to work independently while also contributing as part of a team.
- Willingness to learn press operations and develop additional technical skills.
- Must be open to overtime and shift flexibility as business needs require.
Physical Requirements / Working Conditions
- Must be comfortable working in a manufacturing and production environment.
- Must be able to occasionally lift approximately 20–40 lbs.
- Position may require sitting, standing, walking, bending, reaching, and moving throughout the shift.
- Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
- The production environment may require the use of hearing protection.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
You should be proficient in:
- Knowledge of Large Format Graphics
- Machine Setups for Production Runs
- Sheet Fed Offset Printing
- Binding Experience
- Offset Lithography
- Digital Printing
Machines & technologies you'll use:
- Flexographic Printing Press