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Press Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Social Influence LLC

Lead Litho Press Operator

Garner, NC ยท On-site

$38 - $43/hr

Heidelberg Speedmaster CX 102-6+L Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105-6+LX Heidelberg Speedmaster SX 102-8P The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and maintenance ...

Social Influence LLC

Lead Litho Press Operator

Garner, NC ยท On-site

$38 - $43/hr

Heidelberg Speedmaster CX 102-6+L Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105-6+LX Heidelberg Speedmaster SX 102-8P The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and maintenance ...

Social Influence LLC

Lead Litho Press Operator

Garner, NC ยท On-site

$38 - $43/hr

Heidelberg Speedmaster CX 102-6+L Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105-6+LX Heidelberg Speedmaster SX 102-8P The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and maintenance ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - KBA

Durham, NC

$27 - $45/hr

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - KBA

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$27 - $45/hr

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - Komori

Durham, NC

$27 - $35/hr

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - Komori

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - Flexo

Durham, NC

$27 - $35/hr

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - Flexo

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

RR Donnelley

Press Operator 3 - Flexo

Durham, NC ยท On-site

Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning ...

CCL Label, Inc.

2nd Shift Press Helper

Fuquay Varina, NC ยท On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Press Operator Helper Reporting Relationships Position Reports to:Production Supervisor Supervisory Responsibilities: Basic Function/Summary To support pressman in accordance with company procedures.

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All JobsPress Operator JobsPress Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Press Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$18

$27

How much do press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for press operator in Raleigh, NC is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Press Operators?

Press Operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing or manufacturing presses. They ensure the equipment runs smoothly, monitor production quality, and make adjustments as needed to achieve the desired results. Press Operators often work with various materials, such as paper, metal, or plastic, depending on the industry. Their role is crucial for maintaining efficiency and quality in mass production environments.

How do you become a press operator?

To become a press operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate printing presses. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in manufacturing or familiarity with safety protocols and machinery operation. Certification is not always required but can improve job prospects and safety knowledge.

What jobs pay 250 an hour?

Press operators typically do not earn $250 an hour; such high wages are more common in specialized fields like surgeons, anesthesiologists, or certain executive roles. Skilled trades and technical positions may reach high hourly rates with experience and certifications, but $250 per hour is rare for standard press operator roles.

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

To thrive as a Press Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and knowledge of printing processes, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with specific printing presses, quality control tools, and production management systems is often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication help operators minimize downtime and maintain safety standards. These abilities ensure efficient production runs, consistent product quality, and safe operation in a manufacturing environment.

What are the responsibilities of a press operator?

A press operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing presses or manufacturing equipment to produce high-quality products. They monitor machine performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed during shifts. Attention to detail and knowledge of machinery are essential for efficient operation.

Is press operator a stressful job?

Press operators often work in fast-paced manufacturing environments where precision and safety are critical, which can contribute to job stress. The job requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and sometimes shift work, all of which can impact stress levels depending on individual resilience and workplace conditions.

What is the difference between Press Operator vs Machine Setter?

AspectPress OperatorMachine Setter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or printing facilities, operating pressesManufacturing plants, setting up and adjusting machines
Industry UsagePrinting, metal, plastic, and packaging industriesPrinting, manufacturing, and production industries
Primary FocusOperating presses to produce productsPreparing and adjusting machines for production

While both roles are essential in manufacturing and printing industries, Press Operators focus on running presses during production, whereas Machine Setters prepare and calibrate machines beforehand. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers target the right skills and responsibilities for each position.

What are some common challenges faced by Press Operators and how can they be addressed?

Press Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, maintaining print quality, and meeting tight production deadlines. To effectively address these issues, operators need to perform regular equipment maintenance, closely monitor press output, and communicate proactively with supervisors and team members about any issues. Developing strong troubleshooting skills and staying updated on new press technologies can also help reduce downtime and improve efficiency in the role.
More about Press Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Press Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Press Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Press Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Press Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Press Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Press Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Press Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Press Operator job openings:
Press Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Press Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,212 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Lead Litho Press Operator

Lead Litho Press Operator

Social Influence LLC

Garner, NC โ€ข On-site

$38 - $43/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Shift: 2nd shift- 5:30pm-5:30am
ย 
ย 
Pay Range: $38.00-$43.00
ย 
ย 
ย 
Equipment:
Heidelberg Speedmaster CX 102-6+L
Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105-6+LX
Heidelberg Speedmaster SX 102-8P
Job Description

The Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and maintenance in the Litho Press department. This role sets the pace for safety, quality, and throughputโ€”coordinating crew assignments, ensuring efficient make-ready and color control, resolving press issues, and supporting continuous improvement.

This position partners closely with Scheduling, Prepress, Bindery, and Quality teams to meet customer specifications, delivery commitments, and plant performance goals.

Responsibilities
  • Lead start-of-shift huddles covering safety, priorities, quality focus, and crew assignments
  • Coordinate crew assignments across Heidelberg presses based on workload and skillsets
  • Troubleshoot press issues including registration, color, sheet handling, marking, scumming, streaking, and roller settings
  • Manage shift handoffs and ensure accurate documentation in job travelers and press logs
  • Oversee efficient make-ready processes including plate mounting, blanket/cylinder checks, ink/water balance, and changeovers
  • Verify imposition, plates, substrates, and ink sets prior to production; escalate issues as needed
  • Maintain color standards (density, ฮ”E, gray balance, G7 where applicable) and document results
  • Ensure proper documentation and traceability including lot tracking, line clearance, and label control
  • Enforce and support preventative maintenance (PMs) such as roller care, blankets, filters, and lubrication
  • Confirm readiness of tooling and consumables (plates, blankets, fountain solution, press chemistry, etc.)
  • Support root cause analysis for downtime, defects, and recurring issues
  • Operate offset presses as needed
  • Enforce all safety procedures including LOTO, machine guarding, and chemical handling
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in offset lithography, preferably with Heidelberg sheetfed presses (e.g., Speedmaster) or similar
  • Strong expertise in make-ready, color management, and troubleshooting multi-color presses (aqueous/UV coating experience is a plus)
  • Solid understanding of substrates, ink/water balance, coatings, and pressroom chemistry
  • Ability to read and interpret job tickets, proofs, color standards, and prepress documentation
  • Proven leadership experience as a lead operator or senior pressman
  • Basic computer skills and familiarity with press consoles and quality systems
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks including standing, walking, and material handling
  • Comfortable working in a production environment with noise, chemicals, and required PPE
  • Willingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.