Printing Press Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Description

The Press Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, monitoring, and maintenance of flexographic printing press to produce high-quality label rolls that meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production schedules. This position ensures safe and efficient press operation, maintains print quality throughout production runs, and supports continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing environment.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Press Setup and Operation

• Set up and operate flexographic printing presses according to work order specifications and production requirements.
• Review job tickets and production orders to determine quantities, colors, substrates, print sequences, anilox specifications, and customer requirements.
• Install and configure printing plates, cylinders, dies, rollers, gauges, feed guides, screens, and other press components.
• Load, position, and adjust substrates and materials into press feeding mechanisms.
• Set and adjust press parameters including speed, temperature, registration, pressure, tension, and ink flow.

Quality Control

• Inspect printed products throughout production runs to ensure print clarity, color consistency, registration accuracy, and conformance to customer specifications.
• Identify and correct print defects, equipment malfunctions, and quality concerns promptly.
• Reposition printing plates, adjust pressure settings, and make machine adjustments to optimize print quality.
• Complete required quality checks and production documentation accurately.

Ink and Material Management

• Mix, blend, test, and adjust inks, coatings, solvents, and other materials according to work order requirements.
• Monitor ink viscosity and color consistency throughout production.
• Replenish inks and materials as needed while minimizing waste.
• Maintain proper handling and storage of inks, solvents, and production materials.

Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting

• Monitor press performance and auxiliary equipment to maintain efficient operation.
• Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance on presses and related equipment.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, print quality, and production issues and make necessary adjustments.
• Report equipment concerns to maintenance personnel when needed.

Finishing and Production Support

• Operate and monitor auxiliary finishing equipment as required.
• Package, label, and prepare finished products for shipment or next-stage processing.
• Maintain accurate production records, downtime documentation, and material usage reports.
• Assist with inventory management and material movement as needed.
• Support continuous improvement, 5S, and lean manufacturing initiatives.

Safety and Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA requirements.
• Consistently wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, incidents, and equipment concerns promptly.

Other Duties

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Physical Demands   

Physical Activity               Frequency

Standing                              Constantly 

Walking                               Frequently 

Sitting                                  Occasionally

Handling/Fingering           Frequently

Reaching Outward            Frequently

Reaching Above Shoulder    Frequently

 Climbing                            Occasionally

 Crawling                            Occasionally

 Squatting/Kneeling         Occasionally

 Bending                            Frequently

Lift/Carry Requirements   

Weight                              Frequency

 Up to 10 lbs.                    Constantly

 11-20 lbs.                         Frequently

 21-50 lbs.                         Frequently

 51-100 lbs.                      Frequently

 Over 100 lbs.                   Occasionally (with assistance as required)

Push/Pull Requirements  

Weight                              Frequency

Up to 12 lbs.                     Constantly

13-25 lbs.                         Frequently

 26-40 lbs.                        Frequently

 41-100 lbs.                     Occasionally

Frequency Definitions

• Occasionally      (O):      Up to 33% of the workday.
• Frequently (F): 33% to 66% of      the workday.
• Constantly (C): More than 66%      of the workday.

Other Physical Requirements

• Near, distance, peripheral, and depth perception vision abilities.
• Ability to distinguish colors accurately.
• Manual dexterity and sense of touch.

Ability to wear required PPE, including hearing protection, safety glasses, face shields, and cut-resistant gloves. 

Requirements

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

Competency Statements 

• Accountability: The extent to which an individual is willing to accept responsibility.
• Accuracy: The extent to which an individual's work is correct and error free within company policies and guidelines.
• Adaptability: The extent to which an individual can fit into a changing work environment.
• Communication, Oral & Written: The extent to which an individual communicates with clarity, actively engaging in conversations in order to clearly understand others' message and intent, and received and processes feedback.
• Organized: The ability of the individual to be structured and methodical in working skills.
• Problem Solving: The ability to recognize courses of action which can be taken to handle problems or potential problems.
• Safety Awareness: The ability to identify and correct conditions that affect employee safety.

SKILLS & ABILITIES 

Preferred Education

• High School Diploma or GED
• Technical Certification or Associates Degree in printing processes

Preferred Experience 

• Previous flexographic printing experience

Computer Skills 

• Must have working knowledge of the use of a PC and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Other Skills

• Mechanical aptitude is a must

Heartland Label Printers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. 

We participate in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the work eligibility of all new hires following an accepted job offer.