1

Press Operator Trainee Jobs in Gresham, OR (NOW HIRING)

BINDERY OPERATOR

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Pull all samples from press sample pallets and ensure they are used and distributed according to ... Train general workers, trainees and temporary employees to properly and safely perform their job ...

BINDERY OPERATOR

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Pull all samples from press sample pallets and ensure they are used and distributed according to ... Train general workers, trainees and temporary employees to properly and safely perform their job ...

Press Operator Trainee information

See Gresham, OR salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do press operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for press operator trainee in Gresham, OR is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a press operator trainee do?

A Press Operator Trainee learns to operate and maintain printing presses or similar machinery under the supervision of experienced operators. Their duties often include setting up the press, loading materials, monitoring production runs, inspecting finished products for quality, and performing basic troubleshooting and maintenance. The trainee position is designed to provide hands-on training and develop the skills necessary to become a fully qualified press operator.

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

To thrive as a Press Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with printing presses, quality control tools, and safety protocols is typically required, and on-the-job training or certifications in press operation are often provided. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team help you excel in this hands-on, fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintaining production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and supporting a safe workplace.

What are some common challenges faced by a press operator trainee, and how can they be addressed?

As a Press Operator Trainee, you may encounter challenges such as learning to operate complex machinery, maintaining high quality standards, and troubleshooting minor technical issues. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and understanding safety protocols are also important hurdles. Overcoming these challenges typically involves thorough on-the-job training, asking questions when unsure, and closely following established procedures. Building good communication with experienced operators and supervisors can also greatly help in developing your skills and confidence.

What is the difference between Press Operator Trainee vs Press Operator?

AspectPress Operator TraineePress Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; specialized training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning processFull responsibility for operating printing presses, independent work
Employer UsageEntry-level position, training role in printing industrySkilled role, responsible for press operation and quality control

The Press Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Press Operator is a fully responsible role requiring skills and experience to operate printing presses independently.

Infographic showing various Press Operator Trainee job openings in Gresham, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,646 per year, or $20 per hour.

Press Operator/Press Trainee (Goss Metro & Community)

The Columbian Publishing Company

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$19 - $28/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Columbian is a family-owned and operated daily newspaper recognized as one of the nation’s top mid-sized publications. We operate 7 days a week and are located just blocks from the Vancouver waterfront along the Columbia River.

Job Summary:

We are hiring a Press Operator or Press Trainee to support production on Goss Metro (double-wide) and Goss Community presses. This role is ideal for experienced press operators or mechanically inclined individuals looking to enter the trade.


Schedule:

35–40 hours per week

Must be available to work any day (7-day operation)


Qualifications:

Preferred:

  • Experience with double-wide Goss Metro press
  • Experience with Goss Community press
  • Printing press or web offset experience

Trainee Candidates:

  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Willingness to learn a skilled trade
  • Reliable and team-oriented

Benefits:

Pay up to $28/hour depending on experience

Full benefits package

401(k) after 1 year

Paid vacation and holidays

Requirements:

Responsibilities:

  • Operate and maintain Goss Metro and Community presses
  • Adjust ink and water balance for print quality
  • Monitor and correct color registration
  • Hang plates and assist with press setup
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting
  • Work with press crew to meet production deadlines