1

First Press Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Second Press Operator

Woodridge, IL ยท On-site

$27 - $30/hr

This individual will be responsible for assisting the First Press Operator in the operation and maintenance of the assigned press. The ideal candidate will possess a high school diploma/GED, 1 to 2 ...

We are seeking a Mark Andy Press Operator for the following shift in our Crystal Lake, IL facility:Shift available: 6:00 am to 2:30 pm, M-FMinimum Requirements:3 + years related Mark Andy press ...

1st Shift Press Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$24 - $28/hr

A press operator will perform complex printing jobs, including set-up and troubleshooting for each ... You are fully vested on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. SATO will match 100 ...

1st Shift Press Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$24 - $28/hr

A press operator will perform complex printing jobs, including set-up and troubleshooting for each ... You are fully vested on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. SATO will match 100 ...

Brake Press Operator

Crete, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $28/hr

This is a full-time, first-shift position consisting of four 10-hour workdays (Monday through ... Minimum 4 years of experience operating and setting up press brake machines. * Strong understanding ...

Flexographic Press Operator

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

We are looking for an intuitive Flexographic Press Operator who: * Does not want to work in ... We're hiring for 1st Shift (6:00 am - 2:00 pm), Monday through Friday. Essential Functions ...

Flexographic Press Operator

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

We are looking for an intuitive Flexographic Press Operator who: * Does not want to work in ... We're hiring for 1st Shift (6:00 am - 2:00 pm), Monday through Friday. Essential Functions ...

Press Break Machine Operator Blue Collar Addison, IL. 60101 1st Shift 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $20.00 per hour Temp to hire | Full-time. Position Summary: Our computer-controlled Amada press brakes are ...

Punch Press Operator

Lombard, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $29/hr

We are hiring a Punch Press Operator to join our production floor. This is a hands-on, full-time ... Retirement: 401(k) program with a company match of 100% of your salary deferrals, up to the first ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Press Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do first press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for first press operator in Chicago, IL is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between First Press Operator vs Second Press Operator?

AspectFirst Press OperatorSecond Press Operator
CertificationsTypically requires printing press operation experience, possibly a technical certificateSimilar certifications, often with additional experience in press setup
Work EnvironmentPrint shop or manufacturing plant, operating large printing pressesSame environment, often working sequentially after First Press Operator
Job ResponsibilitiesSets up, operates, and monitors the initial printing processHandles subsequent printing runs, quality checks, and adjustments

The main difference between a First Press Operator and a Second Press Operator lies in their roles within the printing process. The First Press Operator is responsible for the initial setup and operation of the press, ensuring quality from the start. The Second Press Operator typically takes over after the first run, focusing on maintaining quality, making adjustments, and running additional jobs. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but their responsibilities differ based on the printing workflow.

How much do first press operators make in the US?

First press operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in manufacturing or printing environments may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is a First Press Operator a stressful job?

A First Press Operator's job can be stressful due to the need for precision, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols while operating printing presses. The role often involves working in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines, which can contribute to job-related stress. Proper training and experience help manage stress levels effectively.

What does a First Press Operator do?

A First Press Operator sets up, operates, and monitors printing presses to produce high-quality printed materials. They ensure proper ink, paper, and machine settings, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot issues to maintain efficiency and print quality. This role often requires knowledge of printing equipment, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols.
Infographic showing various First Press Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,497 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Second Press Operator

Woodridge, IL โ€ข On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist the First Press Operator in the operation and maintenance of the press.

  • Read and review job tickets to prepare for press setup and ensure accurate job execution.

  • Feed paper during press runs, operate the press efficiently, and perform wash-up and safety procedures.


Job description

HIRING IMMEDIATELY: SECOND PRESS OPERATOR IN WOODRIDGE, IL
Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Second Press Operator to join our team in Woodridge, Illinois. This individual will be responsible for assisting the First Press Operator in the operation and maintenance of the assigned press. The ideal candidate will possess a high school diploma/GED, 1 to 2 years’ experience working as a Feeder or Floor Help with some exposure to feeding on a sheet fed press, and more listed below. Apply online and kickstart your career today!

Pay, Schedule, and Location
  • Starting at $27-$30/hour
  • Excellent benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision
  • 6am-6pm rotating shift , must be able to work weekends ($27)
  • 6pm-6am rotating shift , must be able to work weekends ($30)
  • Located in Woodridge, Illinois

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Reads Instructions from job ticket, i.e. type of stock, amount of paper, size, weight, and caliper, type of ink and colors, including all special instructions.
  • Brings stock and ink to press, makes sure all paper is accounted for and ink is the correct color/type.
  • Reviews job tickets before job runs and identifies all variables before set-up to ensure that 100% of all jobs are run accurately.
  • Makes up appropriate sets/books of waste for make ready pulls prior to starting make ready.
  • Sets up feeder, side guide, double sheet detector in-feed and delivery including slow down wheels.
  • Positions image on sheet according to layout provided.
  • Registers colors and does line up to check copy, imposition/pagination (work and turn, work and flop, sheet wise), trims, bleeds, folds, squareness of image to gripper and side guide.
  • Provides laminated for color and peel test and records in book.
  • Obtains supervisor’s approval on all jobs.
  • Uses mylar template to check position of image and magnetic strips on plastic card jobs, checks for roper shear marks on all hydraulic lamination jobs.
  • Feeds paper during press run and operates continuous feeder in an efficient manner.
  • Ensures press operates efficiently without trip-offs to meet required estimates.
  • Keeps ink fountain and chemical supply up to standard. Checks PH and conductivity of fountain solution
  • Ensures press does not run short of ink or chemicals.
  • Examines printed sheet along with First Press Operator during press run for quality assurance.
  • Time stamps and views quality pulls at each interval.
  • Washes press during change over, or final end of shift wash up, including impression cylinders, blanket wash blades, wash up pans, ink knives, gum plates if required, etc.
  • Meets the required estimate for wash-up and to have a smooth shift transition.
  • Follows all safety policies and directs safety of crew. Keeps abreast of MSDS program, Lockout/Tagout and directs the proper handling/disposal of hazardous chemicals.
  • Maintains awareness of policies and safety procedures, always utilizing proper techniques
  • Performs preventative maintenance on press such as lubrication, replacement of small parts, cleaning and minor adjustments and/or replacement of rollers and other small moving parts.
  • Cleans area prior to the next shift starting.
  • Performs other job duties as assigned.

Requirements and Qualifications
  • Must be a high school graduate or have a G.E.D.
  • Must have good color perception.
  • Must pass color hue test.
  • Must pass color vision test.
  • Must have 1 to 2 years’ experience working as a Feeder or Floor Help with some exposure to feeding on a sheet fed press.
  • Must have working experience with color scanning equipment.
  • Must have experience working with plastic substrates.
  • Must have the ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
  • Must have basic computer skills (data entry).
  • Must have the ability to perform basic arithmetic including additions, subtraction, multiplication and division.
  • Must have the ability to read a ruler.
  • Must have the ability to operate densitometers, spectrophotometers, calculators, computer terminals, gloss meters, PH/conductivity meters and other printing equipment needed to accomplish the task(s).
  • Must be able to work in and around UV (Ultra-Violet) materials.
  • Must be able to register 6/c work and spot coatings
  • Must possess the following competencies: accuracy, reliability, decision making, time management and self motivation.
  • Must be able to maintain good attendance
  • Must be willing to work overtime as needed; significant overtime may be required during busy periods.
  • Must be reliable and dependable.
  • Must be able to perform all essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

--
(Salary range based on experience)
--
ABOUT ACCURATE PERSONNEL
Do you need your next job fast? Accurate Personnel is here to help! As an industry-leading full-service staffing agency, we have all the tools you need to start earning that next paycheck soon. Send us your application and our team will instantly get to work on finding you the right placement to fit your needs. Accurate Personnel has provided temporary job services and direct hire searches for 45 years. Our expertise has allowed us to grow from a regional Chicagoland office into a nationwide search firm that services over 500 clients while never losing sight of personalized service. Let Accurate work for you. Apply with us today!
--
Accurate Personnel provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

(BOLB)