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Press Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Press Assistant

Holland, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

General Information Job ID ATR63072 Posting Job Title Press Assistant Locations MI Holland Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 08-Jul-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements Smurfit ...

Job purpose Responsible for assisting the Offset Lead Press Operator in the operation of printing press. Assist in performing setup, make-ready, print runs, setup and adjustment of the feeder system ...

Prelim/Prepress Assistant

Midland, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Load customer supplied electronic files for output, onto the Pre-Press file server * Create an electronic image of the pages to create manufacturing proofs used by the Press and Bind operators during ...

Load customer supplied electronic files for output, onto the Pre-Press file server * Create an electronic image of the pages to create manufacturing proofs used by the Press and Bind operators during ...

Fill-in as needed or directed in other departments Locate and look ahead at next jobs to maintain good flow for press Assist Shipping & Receiving in staging materials and labeling skids Ensure that ...

In addition, you will also be expected to assist in other areas of the press department as needed, help maintain a clean and organized work area, communicate any machine or quality concerns to ...

Press Operator Grand Haven, MI, 2nd shift, $19.00 per hour Job Summary Are you someone who enjoys ... procedures, and assist with other production tasks as needed. What We're Looking For To be ...

Press Operators

Grand Ledge, MI · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Press Operator - Urgently Hiring for a great company located in the Grand Ledge, MI area! Come join ... Follow all safety procedures and company policies while operating machinery. * Assist with ...

Stamping/Press Prototype Press Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

PRINCIPLE DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Assist in set-up soft and hard tooling in press. 2. Assist with spotting all dies. 3. Assist in Tryout of all dies. 4. Complete Binder Development. 5. Perform ...

Press Operator

Grand Ledge, MI · On-site

$17.27/hr

Press Operator - Urgently Hiring for a great company located in the Grand Ledge, MI area! Come join ... Follow all safety procedures and company policies while operating machinery. * Assist with ...

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Press Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$11

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How much do press assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for press assistant in Michigan is $16.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get into PR with no experience?

To become a press assistant with no experience, focus on developing strong communication and writing skills, gain familiarity with media outlets and press releases, and consider internships or volunteer roles in communications to build relevant experience. Entry-level positions often value enthusiasm and a willingness to learn alongside basic knowledge of social media and media relations tools.

What does a press assistant do?

A press assistant supports media and public relations efforts by preparing press materials, coordinating communication with journalists, and managing press events. They often handle administrative tasks, maintain media lists, and use tools like media monitoring software to track coverage. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

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

To excel as a Press Assistant, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and a relevant qualification in communications, public relations, or journalism. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, press release distribution platforms, and office software like Microsoft Office is often required. Organizational ability, time management, and the capacity to work well under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills enable a Press Assistant to effectively support media outreach, manage information flow, and maintain a positive public image for their organization.

What Is a Press Assistant?

A press assistant, also called a press operator, supervises and operates the press machine that produces print publications like newspapers, magazines, and books. Their job duties are to run the printing press machine, load supplies like ink and paper, and adjust the settings to ensure quality results. They also have to manage inventory and meet deadlines. The qualifications for a career as a press assistant are a high school diploma or GED and voluntary postsecondary certification in print technology. On-the-job training provides you with the skills and experience you need to operate a press machine on your own.

How much does a PR assistant earn?

A press assistant, often part of public relations teams, typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in larger markets can earn higher salaries. Strong communication skills and familiarity with media tools can influence earning potential.

What are some typical challenges a Press Assistant might encounter during a busy press run, and how can they effectively address them?

Press Assistants often face challenges such as managing tight production schedules, handling unexpected equipment malfunctions, and ensuring consistent print quality. To address these, it's important to stay organized, communicate proactively with press operators and other team members, and be diligent in monitoring both machinery and output. Developing a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of the press workflow can help Press Assistants quickly identify and resolve issues, ensuring that deadlines are met and quality standards are maintained.

What is the difference between Press Assistant vs Public Relations Assistant?

AspectPress AssistantPublic Relations Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or related fieldsSimilar educational background, often with additional PR certifications
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, press offices, news agenciesPR firms, corporate communication departments, nonprofit organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in journalism, media, and news industriesCommon in corporate, nonprofit, and agency settings
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level media support rolesCompared for roles supporting public image and communication strategies

Press Assistants primarily support media and news organizations by handling press materials and coordinating media coverage. Public Relations Assistants focus on managing an organization’s public image, including media relations, event planning, and communication strategies. While both roles require similar skills and education, Press Assistants are more media-focused, whereas PR Assistants work across broader communication functions.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Press assistants and other entry-level roles often require strong communication skills and familiarity with digital tools, which can be challenging for some Gen Z candidates due to limited work experience or competition from more experienced applicants. Additionally, economic factors and changing hiring practices may make it harder for young job seekers to secure positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Press jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Press jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Press Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Press Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Press Assistant jobs in MI? For Press Assistant jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Press Assistant job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,761 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Press Assistant

Westrock

Holland, MI • On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

General Information
Job ID
ATR63072
Posting Job Title
Press Assistant
Locations
MI Holland
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
08-Jul-2026
Relocation Support
No
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
The Opportunity
The Feeder Operator (Press Assistant) is responsible for setting up and assisting in the operation of a multi-color printing press. This role supports press performance by contributing to productivity, quality, spoilage reduction, and equipment maintenance, while providing direction and support to the feeder operator assigned to the press. A typical day includes preparing the press for production, monitoring print quality, maintaining color standards, completing documentation, and supporting pressroom operations.
How you will impact Smurfit Westrock
  • Clear machines before and after each production run, ensuring removal and disposal of all foreign materials and waste within designated areas.
  • Review job tickets, layout sheets, and samples prior to production to ensure accurate setup.
  • Inspect printing plates and blankets for defects and pack blankets to specification.
  • Download pre-press information, assign print units for correct color sequence, and set up scanners as required.
  • Achieve color match and print registration and obtain supervisory approval prior to production.
  • Interpret color bars and manage ink and water balance to control print quality.
  • Maintain color consistency throughout production using approved sheets and closed-loop systems.
  • Inspect both sides of press sheets for defects and tag job samples appropriately.
  • Accurately record good sheet counts and ink usage on job tickets.
  • Remove, preserve, and store printing plates as required.
  • Assist with press wash-up, cleaning, and housekeeping activities.
  • Train, direct, and support the feeder operator assigned to the press.
  • Perform routine and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment.
  • Communicate with sales staff and customers during press proofs as needed.
  • Complete all ISO documentation and quality checks accurately and on time.
  • Perform all duties in compliance with federal, state, local, and company safety regulations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support operational objectives.

What you need to succeed
  • Minimum of two years of print production experience required.
  • Minimum of two years operating a multi-color printing press required.
  • Excellent communication skills with demonstrated tact, sensitivity, and professionalism.
  • Knowledge of printing terminology and industry practices.
  • Ability to maintain reliable attendance.
  • Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to perform basic arithmetic including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
  • Ability to pass required reading, mechanical aptitude, color vision, and color hue tests.
  • Basic computer skills including email and word processing.
  • Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.
Employees must be able to sit, stand, remain mobile, talk, see, and hear throughout the workday. Job duties may include bending, stooping, climbing, kneeling, reaching above shoulder level, pushing and pulling, repetitive operations, and frequent use of hands and fingers.
Lifting requirements may include lifting up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 25-50 pounds occasionally during a work shift.
Vision Requirements
This position requires close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus to maintain print quality and operational accuracy.
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.