Rev. 02/10/2025
Job Description: Press Apprentice
Location: Safford, AZ
Reports To: Print Production Manager
Job Type: Full Time, Hourly
Job Summary
The Press Apprentice supports the production team by learning and assisting with the operation and maintenance of printing presses. This is an entry-level role designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a skilled Press Operator. The apprentice will work closely with the Print Supervisor and experienced operators to ensure high-quality production, adherence to timelines, and the proper functioning of equipment.
Key Responsibilities
Training & Development:
โข Participate in hands-on training to learn press operations, material handling, and quality control procedures.
โข Study and understand different printing methods, materials, and machinery specifications.
Press Support:
โข Coordinate with Scheduler, Press Team Lead, and Lead Operator to prepare for upcoming jobs.
โข Make and mount plates accurately according to job requirements.
โข Prepare jobs according to the production schedule, ensuring ink, stock, dies, and other materials are delivered to the appropriate press.
โข Deliver and return miscellaneous press supplies such as rags, ink, stock, dies, tape, flags, solvents, and cleaners as needed.
โข Clean carts and components being returned after press runs and assist Press Operators with cleanup tasks to minimize downtime.
โข Assist Press Operators as needed to support efficient press operation.
โข Stock presses daily with essential supplies, including tape, flags, solvents, cleaners, and cores.
โข Cover lunches and breaks for Press Operators to keep production running without interruption.
โข Maintain an accurate inventory of press supplies and communicate needs to the Supervisor.
โข Print and assemble job tickets in preparation for running the press.
โข Act as a backup for the Slitter Operator when needed.
Rev. 02/10/2025
Quality Assurance:
โข Perform basic quality checks on printed materials, including color accuracy, alignment, and print consistency.
โข Follow company standards for defect identification and resolution.
Equipment Maintenance:
โข Clean and maintain presses and surrounding workstations to ensure optimal performance and safety.
โข Learn basic troubleshooting and maintenance tasks under the guidance of experienced operators.
Safety & Compliance:
โข Follow all safety protocols and guidelines for working with machinery and chemicals.
โข Adhere to company policies and procedures, including environmental and workplace safety regulations.
Qualifications
Education & Experience:
โข High school diploma or equivalent required.
โข Previous experience in manufacturing, printing, or a related field is a plus but not required.
Skills & Abilities:
โข Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn technical skills.
โข Attention to detail with a commitment to producing high-quality work.
โข Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
โข Good communication and teamwork skills.
Physical Requirements:
โข Ability to lift and carry moderate weights, such as rolls of label materials or inks, up to 60 pounds, on occasion.
โข Precise use of hands and fingers for handling small components in order to operate machinery
โข Clear vision, including close up vision and identification of colors, to make sure presses are set up properly.
โข Standing, bending, and moving for extended periods in a production environment.
โข Comfortable working in varying temperatures and with pressroom materials such as inks and solvents.
โข Ability to verbally communicate and collaborate with co-workers and supervisors.
Work Environment:
โข Fast-paced manufacturing environment with exposure to printing equipment.
Rev. 02/10/2025
โข Occasional lifting of materials up to 50 pounds may be required.
โข Standing and walking for extended periods during shifts.