Lathe Machine Operator Apprentice Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Master the Press. Deliver Precision. Lead Production.

We're looking for an experienced Offset Press Operator who takes pride in producing exceptional print quality while leading by example on the production floor. If you're an expert in sheet-fed offset printing, enjoy solving complex mechanical challenges and are passionate about continuous improvement, this is your opportunity to join an industry-leading manufacturing team.

In this position, you'll operate offset printing presses that produce charitable gaming products used by organizations across North America. Your expertise will directly impact product quality, production efficiency and customer satisfaction while helping develop the next generation of press professionals.

What You'll Do

As an Offset Press Operator, you'll set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain multi-color sheet-fed offset presses while ensuring every production run meets the highest standards for quality, safety, and efficiency.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities Include:

• Set up, operate, calibrate and maintain multi-color sheet-fed offset printing presses.
• Adjust printing plates, ink fountains, rollers, and press settings to achieve precise registration and color consistency.
• Monitor print quality throughout production and make real-time adjustments to maintain customer specifications.
• Inspect printed materials for color accuracy, registration and overall quality.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, operational and print quality issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform preventive maintenance, cleaning, lubrication and routine press repairs.
• Optimize press performance to improve productivity, reduce waste and maximize equipment efficiency.
• Collaborate with Pre-Press, Production, Maintenance and Scheduling teams to meet production deadlines.
• Complete production reports, maintenance logs and work center documentation accurately.
• Train, mentor and support Press Apprentices and Press Helpers in safe operation, troubleshooting and quality standards.
• Promote a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following OSHA standards and company safety procedures.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality and operational performance.
• Other duties as required.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who combines technical expertise with leadership, values precision, and is committed to producing outstanding printed products.

• Minimum of four (4) years of experience operating and maintaining multi-color sheet-fed offset printing presses.
• Strong knowledge of offset printing processes, including pre-press, press operation, color management and post-press production.
• Experience using color control densitometers and interpreting print quality data.
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical problem-solving skills.
• Experience implementing process improvements to increase productivity and reduce waste.
• Ability to read and follow production schedules, job tickets and customer specifications.
• Strong organizational, communication and time-management skills.
• Previous experience training, mentoring or directing Press Apprentices or Press Helpers preferred.
• Basic computer proficiency with the ability to learn manufacturing software and reporting systems.
• High attention to detail with a commitment to quality, efficiency and safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to work well in a diverse environment.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and provide documentation establishing identity and employment eligibility as required by federal law.
• Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug screening.

Ensuring the safety of our employees and compliance with industry regulations is our top priority. Therefore, our company enforces a zero-tolerance policy regarding substance abuse and criminal activity. All job offers are contingent upon passing a rigorous background check and drug screen. Failure to meet these requirements will result in disqualification from the hiring process.