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Press Apprentice Jobs in Manchester, CT (NOW HIRING)

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Press Apprentice information

See Manchester, CT salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do press apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for press apprentice in Manchester, CT is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a press apprentice?

Press Apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills required to operate printing presses and related machinery under the supervision of experienced press operators. They typically work in printing companies, newspapers, or publishing houses, gaining hands-on experience in setting up, running, and maintaining presses. Apprenticeships usually combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, helping apprentices learn about print technology, safety procedures, and quality control. This role is an entry point into the printing industry and can lead to more advanced positions as a press operator.

What are some common challenges a press apprentice may face during their training period?

As a Press Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as mastering the operation of complex printing machinery, maintaining consistent print quality under tight deadlines, and adapting quickly to new printing technologies. You'll also need to develop strong attention to detail to spot and resolve printing errors efficiently. Collaborating with experienced press operators and learning proper maintenance procedures are essential to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth production workflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a press apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Press Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of printing processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with printing machinery, basic maintenance tools, and sometimes training in safety protocols or print-specific software is typically required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure accurate print production, support efficient workflow, and facilitate growth into more advanced positions within the printing industry.

What is the difference between Press Apprentice vs Press Operator?

AspectPress ApprenticePress Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; some roles may require technical certification
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often in manufacturing or printing facilitiesManufacturing or printing plant, operating machinery
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in printing, manufacturing, or publishing industriesSkilled role in similar industries, often with more responsibility
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level training roles in printing or manufacturingLearning about machine operation and skilled manufacturing roles

The main difference between a Press Apprentice and a Press Operator is that the apprentice is in training, gaining skills and experience, while the operator is a trained professional responsible for running press machinery independently. Apprenticeship programs focus on learning, whereas operators perform day-to-day operational tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Press jobs in Manchester, CT?

The most popular types of Press jobs in Manchester, CT are:

Press Apprentice jobs near you

Progressive Tool & Diemaker / Auto Power Press

Connecticut Spring & Stamping

Farmington, CT • On-site

$27.50 - $34.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

**$10,000 Sign-On Bonus**


Job Title

Progressive Tool & Die Maker / Auto Power Press

Job Number

51-4111.00

Department

Automatic Power Press

Reports to

Department Supervisor / Assistant Supervisor

Primary Position Objectives

To effectively support operations by maintaining and implementing systems and programs with regard to tooling and machine maintenance to support production schedules, continuous improvements to the quality, cost, and lead-time of goods and services provided to the customers of CSS.

Position Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

  • Set-up & Maintenance of Tooling including but not limited to First piece quality submission.
  • Follow process for documenting Tool History and Set-up information (reference Brown Card)
  • Alert Supervisor when there is a need for – Machine Maintenance & Tool Maintenance on Production tooling.
  • Fabricate tools, components fixtures and gauges as directed by area supervisor or technical lead.
  • Collaborate with New Tool Group on the introduction of new tools into production areas
  • Assist in the Standardization of Tooling Component Inventory. Assists as requested in the development of Project/Tool estimates (quotes).
  • Assists as required department set up associates solving problems and issues with tool set up and tool production running.
  • Assists company Managers as requested on all Metal Stamping and Four slide projects
  • Alerts Supervisor on updates and corrections needed on job travelers for operation changes/additions.
  • Assists in the training of apprentices

Department Goals

  • Meet quoted/job estimate for Service-Set-up and Production Rate on all tooling.

Other

  • Maintains adherence to company policies, environmental and safety standards as well as good housekeeping standards
  • Assists in development & implementation of Lean Projects.
  • May be required to assist or otherwise instruct other personnel.
  • Performs other duties as may be required.
  • Attendance is an essential function of the job.
  • Willingness to work overtime to support the needs of the business.

Qualifications

Education

Experience

  • Minimum 5 years experience in Component/Tooling Fabrication, Trouble Shooting Tooling and Repairing Tooling. Set-up – Trouble shooting of Production Stamping Equipment 60T-330T in an Automatic Power Press Production Department.
  • WINTRESS CONTROL Knowledge. Fein Blank Knowledge.
  • CT approved (apprenticeship completed) journeyperson.
  • Ability to read - understand blue prints and GDT as needed for production manufacturing.
  • Working knowledge and practical experience with the use of statistical process control in production environments. Progressive stamping background required
  • Working knowledge of ISO quality standards and practical experience with the use of statistical process control in a production environment.
  • Familiar with Medical and Aerospace (ISO13485 & AS9100) working environments.
  • An understanding of Manufacturing Engineering - Quality Engineering - Knowledge of Lean manufacturing and its components (i.e. Kaizen, Kanban, SMED, 5S, etc.)
  • Familiar with principles of concurrent engineering and design for manufacturing and assembly.
  • Experience with production standards, cost of quality and manufacturing methods.
  • Self starter with strong work ethic / production oriented.

Physical Requirements

  • Visual ability (corrected) to read directions and prints and to inspect parts closely to ensure that they meet specifications.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate machinery for precision work.
  • Physical ability to do work requiring frequent stooping and bending.
  • Ability to lift up to 35lbs unassisted

The above description reflects a general outline considered necessary to describe the principle function of the job identified. It shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.