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Heat Press Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mittera

Dye Sublimination Press Operator

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

This role involves operating sublimation presses to produce high-quality customized products ... Operate Kleverick heat press to sublimate prints and perform routine maintenance * Operate Helios ...

SATO America

Press Operator 2nd Shift

Romeoville, IL

$24 - $28/hr

A press operator will perform complex printing jobs, including set-up and troubleshooting for each ... Report machine and equipment malfunctions immediately to the group leader, maintenance and/or ...

SATO America

1st Shift Press Operator

Romeoville, IL

$24 - $28/hr

A press operator will perform complex printing jobs, including set-up and troubleshooting for each ... Report machine and equipment malfunctions immediately to the group leader, maintenance and/or ...

FGS-WI LLC

Press Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

We are recruiting experienced Commercial Web Press Operators to join our talented team of high-impact employees on 3rd shift in our Aurora IL, production facility. Join a company that values your ...

Thunderbird Metals

Machine Operator - Plastics

Elgin, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Machine Operator - Plastics Position Overview The Machine Operators maintain the operation of ... Prolonged standing as required during press and assembly operations. * Ability to reach into ...

SATO America

Press Operator 2nd Shift

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

A press operator will perform complex printing jobs, including set-up and troubleshooting for each ... Report machine and equipment malfunctions immediately to the group leader, maintenance and/or ...

SATO America

1st Shift Press Operator

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

A press operator will perform complex printing jobs, including set-up and troubleshooting for each ... Report machine and equipment malfunctions immediately to the group leader, maintenance and/or ...

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All JobsHeat Press Machine Operator JobsHeat Press Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Heat Press Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do heat press machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for heat press machine 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 does a heat press machine operator do?

A Heat Press Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining heat press machines used to imprint designs, graphics, or lettering onto various materials such as textiles, garments, or promotional items. This role involves preparing materials, aligning items on the press, selecting the correct temperature and pressure settings, and monitoring the process to ensure high-quality results. Operators must also troubleshoot equipment, perform routine maintenance, and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure efficient workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heat press machine operator?

To thrive as a Heat Press Machine Operator, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heat press machines, temperature controls, and safety protocols is typically required, along with experience using related manufacturing or printing equipment. Strong time management, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help operators manage workloads and resolve production issues efficiently. These skills ensure high-quality output, minimize errors, and maintain a safe and productive manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges a heat press machine operator might face during a typical shift?

Heat Press Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as ensuring consistent temperature and pressure settings for various materials and designs, which is crucial for achieving high-quality results. They may also need to troubleshoot machine malfunctions or adjust setups to accommodate urgent or custom orders. Balancing speed with attention to detail, especially during high-volume production, requires strong focus and time management. Additionally, operators frequently collaborate with designers and quality control teams to ensure finished products meet client specifications.

What is the difference between Heat Press Machine Operator vs Screen Printer?

AspectHeat Press Machine OperatorScreen Printer
CredentialsBasic technical skills, sometimes certifications in heat transfer or manufacturingGraphic design knowledge, sometimes certifications in printing technology
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or apparel production facilities, indoor settingsPrinting shops, apparel factories, indoor environments
Industry UsageTextile, promotional products, apparel customizationTextile, promotional items, apparel printing

Both roles involve working with printing equipment in manufacturing settings, but the Heat Press Machine Operator focuses on heat transfer processes, while the Screen Printer specializes in screen printing techniques. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit based on skills and industry needs.

What are popular job titles related to Heat Press Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Heat Press Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heat Press Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Heat Press Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Heat Press Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Heat Press Machine Operator job openings:

Heat Press Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heat Press Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,497 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Dye Sublimination Press Operator

Mittera

Melrose Park, IL • On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Mittera rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 52 rated marketing agency

Job description

The Dye Sublimation Press Operator ensures efficient production and quality output that meets customer specifications. This role involves operating sublimation presses to produce high-quality customized products, including setting up equipment, monitoring the sublimation process, and verifying that finished products meet established quality standards. Additionally, the operator will train and develop new department staff, coordinate production workflows with prepress and post press teams, and maintain strict compliance with all company safety and environmental policies.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operate EFI FabriVu dye sublimation press to produce prints and perform routine maintenance
  • Operate Kleverick heat press to sublimate prints and perform routine maintenance
  • Operate Helios laser cutter to cut sublimated prints and perform routine maintenance
  • Set up and operate sublimation equipment according to standard operating procedures
  • Adjust press settings, including temperature and time, to achieve desired results and prevent bleeding and ghosting
  • Load and unload substrates (up to 50 lbs of unbacked polyester fabric) onto the press
  • Monitor the sublimation process to ensure optimal quality and efficiency
  • Identify and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the sublimation process
  • Implement corrective actions to maintain quality standards
  • Inspect finished products for defects, color accuracy, bleeding, ghosting, and overall appearance
  • Ensure all output meets established quality specifications
  • Organize and maintain a clean and organized workspace
  • Properly dispose of waste materials in accordance with environmental regulations
  • Adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations, including proper handling of chemicals and equipment
  • Report any safety hazards or equipment malfunctions to supervisors immediately
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In keeping with Mittera's philosophy that each individual should be encouraged to reach his or her full potential, and in compliance with the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations or modifications will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. This is a second shift position and hours may vary depending on departmental staffing needs.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 5 - 10+ years of work experience
  • Thorough knowledge of press operations and functions
  • Mechanical ability
  • Must be organized and have the ability to plan, prioritize and follow through on projects with minimal supervision
  • Must have ability to communicate effectively with all levels in the organization and interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
  • Understands basic math skills, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, measurements and critical thinking, to solve practical problems
  • Must have the ability to work effectively in stressful situations and meet stringent deadlines
  • Must have basic computer skills with ability to use Microsoft programs and production related software
  • Must be self-motivated, reliable, and quality, safety oriented

Physical Requirements
  • Requires use of proper body mechanics with pushing, pulling, reaching, lifting, squatting, kneeling and bending
  • Pushing/pulling and lifting up to 50 lbs
  • Requires fine motor hand and arm movement, manual dexterity and coordination
  • Requires near visual acuity
  • Requires working around and operating departmental equipment
  • Must be able to access and navigate each department in the facility
  • Requires the ability to function in a professional manner under stressful circumstances

Work Environment
This position requires some work in an office environment and some work in a production environment. The office environment has a low noise level with ambient temperatures controlled by heating and air conditioning and PPE is not required. The production environment has a loud noise level may require hearing protection, ambient temperatures are warmer in the summer and colder in the winter, and may have exposure to vapors, chemicals, dust, and odors. Other PPE may be required related to specific tasks.
Mittera is a leading-edge company that provides commercial and digital printing, finishing, graphic design, data analytics, direct mail processing, and fulfillment services. Mittera's full-service approach connects data-driven revelations, bar-raising creative, and expertly printed materials to give our customers' brand recognition it deserves. Competitive compensation and robust benefits plans are offered. Benefits include:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life and AD&D Policies
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Volunteer Time Off
  • Location specific benefits should go here!

Mittera is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. All applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

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