Position: Press Operator
Location: Hickory
Shift: Night Shift | 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM | 12-hour 2-2-3 schedule
Pay Rate: $27.78/hour + $2.00/hour shift differential
Summary Description
The Press Operator reports directly to the Plant Superintendent and is responsible for the complete operation of the press, ensuring production goals, print quality, and safe execution of all printing processes while supporting team development and operational efficiency.
What You’ll Be Doing
Meet and exceed machine production goals
Assume full responsibility for complete press operation and production quality
Direct and support the performance and ongoing training of the Press Assistant
Train the assistant to run the press independently with minimal support when needed
Perform full print job setup including plates, sleeves, ink match, make-ready, anilox rollers, and film verification
Maintain print quality including print position, copy accuracy, UPC codes, registration, and impressions
Place roll tickets and weights on each roll and maintain accurate Shop Floor computer records
Return inks, plates, sleeves, film, and materials to correct locations with proper identification
Report damaged or worn plates for replacement
Use web monitoring systems effectively
Demonstrate full understanding of make-ready sequence
Apply tension controls appropriately across different substrates
Set proper impression on plates and anilox rollers
Draw off bag dimensions for finished and converted bags
Adjust dot gains and densities to match proof requirements
Complete plate mounting procedures using proper tapes and mounting methods
Partner with maintenance on operator-based machine maintenance
Handle hazardous waste according to trained procedures
Perform other duties as assigned by the Shift Leader or Production Manager
We’d Love to Hear From You If
Previous printing press experience is required
You have flexographic printing experience on film and/or paper
You have experience operating multi-color web-fed printing presses
You understand company printing procedures and quality standards
You have technical knowledge of inks, color, and film properties
You can read and interpret work orders, artwork, and specification sheets
You understand machine operating capabilities and press functions
You have successfully fulfilled Press Assistant I and II requirements or equivalent experience
You have technical training and/or apprenticeship experience up to three years as an operator
Benefits
At TOPPAN Packaging Americas, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support overall wellbeing. Benefits may vary based on location, employment classification, or collective bargaining agreement and may include:
Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources
Paid time off and holidays
Company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage
Tuition reimbursement
Equal Opportunity Employer
TOPPAN Packaging Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.
