Job Title: Press Operator
Location: Cerritos, CA | Onsite
Employment Type: Temp to Hire
Schedule: Monday–Thursday 6:00 AM–2:30 PM; Friday 5:00 AM–1:30 PM
Compensation: $18–$24 per hour
Company Overview:
A global manufacturer specializing in heat transfer solutions, serving a diverse customer base with screen printing and digital transfer products.
Job Summary:
The Press Operator supports the Production Department by operating manual and semi-automatic transfer screen printing presses. This role is responsible for press setup, quality control, troubleshooting, and maintaining production standards. The position requires hands-on technical skill, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain productivity while adhering to company and customer specifications.
Key Responsibilities:
Operate transfer printing presses, including flatbed, semi-automatic, and automatic equipment
Read job orders to verify quantity, overrun tolerance, color sequence, and substrate requirements
Obtain substrates, screens, ink, squeegees, and related materials for production
Set up presses according to established guidelines, safety standards, and job requirements
Print proof sheets to verify setup, registration, ink viscosity, and color accuracy
Obtain approval from Lead Operator prior to production run
Adjust dryers for proper gel and cure
Maintain optimal production rates, color density, registration, and quality standards
Troubleshoot and resolve printing issues during production
Produce R&D runs, including production samples and overruns
Complete R&D documentation, including techniques and test results
Maintain cleanliness of press, workstation, and surrounding area
Return unused ink to designated areas and remove waste materials
Direct the work of a press helper
Train press operators on new printing techniques as assigned
Perform additional duties as required by management
Qualifications
Required:
Three to five years of screen printing experience
Experience with manual flatbed and automated presses
Knowledge of screen making, including exposure, mesh preparation, washing, and reclaiming
Strong color theory and color mixing skills
Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions in English
Strong documentation and communication skills
Preferred:
Knowledge of operating a Sakurai press
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand, walk, reach, handle materials, and use hands regularly
Ability to sit, stoop, kneel, or crouch as needed
Ability to regularly lift up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 35 pounds
Visual acuity including close, distance, and color vision
Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
