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Prototype Press Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JL Clark

2 Color Press Operator - 3rd Shift

Rockford, IL · On-site

$36.14 - $37.85/hr

From our new 6-color printing press and injection molding presses to advanced rapid prototyping and ... Is responsible for checking operating functions of trailing coater, during run, making sure proper ...

Pro Mach

Press Assistant

Rock Hill, SC

$17/hr

You'll work sidebyside with the Press Operator to keep production running safely, efficiently, and ... Additionally, CL&D Digital produces short run, production quality prototypes and promotional ...

CL&D Graphics LLC

Press Assistant

Hartland, WI

$20/hr

Support the Press Operator during press setup, operation, and changeovers to minimize waste and ... Additionally, CL&D Digital produces short run, production quality prototypes and promotional ...

CL&D Graphics LLC

Press Assistant

Rock Hill, SC

$17/hr

Support the Press Operator during press setup, operation, and changeovers to minimize waste and ... Additionally, CL&D Digital produces short run, production quality prototypes and promotional ...

Pro Mach

Press Assistant

Hartland, WI

$20/hr

You'll work sidebyside with the Press Operator to keep production running safely, efficiently, and ... Additionally, CL&D Digital produces short run, production quality prototypes and promotional ...

ProMach

Press Assistant

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$17/hr

You'll work side-by-side with the Press Operator to keep production running safely, efficiently ... Additionally, CL&D Digital produces short run, production quality prototypes and promotional ...

ProMach

Press Assistant

Hartland, WI · On-site

$20/hr

You'll work side-by-side with the Press Operator to keep production running safely, efficiently ... Additionally, CL&D Digital produces short run, production quality prototypes and promotional ...

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Job Title: Press Brake Operator This role involves setting up and operating Trumpf press brakes ... Work collaboratively with team members in a prototype sheet metal fabrication setting to meet ...

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Prototype Press Operator information

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How much do prototype press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype press operator in the United States is $18.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Prototype Press Operator, you need expertise in operating and troubleshooting printing presses, a solid understanding of print production processes, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specialized press machinery, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required, along with technical training or certifications in press operation. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that prototype prints meet strict specifications, minimize errors, and support efficient workflow in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

How much do press operators make in the US?

Press operators in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the presses they operate. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in setting up and maintaining presses may earn higher wages and overtime pay.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

High-paying media jobs that can reach $150,000 annually include senior roles such as media directors, producers, or executives, often requiring extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge of industry tools. Positions in specialized areas like digital content management, advertising, or broadcast management may also offer such salaries, especially in larger organizations or with additional certifications. Entry-level roles typically do not reach this level without significant experience or advancement.

What are some common challenges Prototype Press Operators face when working with new materials or designs?

Prototype Press Operators often encounter challenges when working with unfamiliar materials or unique design specifications, as prototypes frequently require adjustments to standard press settings. Adapting to varied tolerances and troubleshooting issues like material warping or ink adhesion can be part of the daily routine. Close attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as operators must collaborate with engineers and designers to ensure prototypes meet quality standards and deadlines. Flexibility and a proactive approach are key to succeeding in this dynamic, fast-paced environment.

What are Prototype Press Operators?

Prototype Press Operators are skilled technicians who set up, operate, and maintain specialized printing or stamping presses to produce prototype parts or samples, often for evaluation and testing before full-scale manufacturing. Their work involves interpreting technical drawings, adjusting machine settings, and performing quality checks to ensure prototypes meet precise specifications. They frequently collaborate with engineering and design teams to refine production processes and may work with various materials, such as metals or plastics, depending on the industry. Attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a strong understanding of safety protocols are essential for this role.

What is a prototype maker job description?

A prototype maker is responsible for designing, building, and testing prototypes of products or components to evaluate their functionality and design. The role often requires skills in CAD software, manual fabrication, and understanding of engineering principles, with work typically performed in a workshop or lab environment. Attention to detail and the ability to follow technical specifications are essential for this position.

What is the difference between Prototype Press Operator vs Sheet Metal Worker?

AspectPrototype Press OperatorSheet Metal Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly technical certificationsHigh school diploma, apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or prototype labs, working with presses and machineryConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, working with sheet metal
Industry UsagePrototyping, product development, small-batch manufacturingHVAC, aerospace, automotive, construction

The Prototype Press Operator and Sheet Metal Worker roles share some technical skills and work in manufacturing environments. However, Prototype Press Operators focus on operating presses for prototypes and small runs, often in product development settings, while Sheet Metal Workers handle fabrication and installation of sheet metal components in construction and industrial projects. Both roles require technical training, but their specific tasks and industries differ.

Is press operator a hard job?

A press operator job involves operating and maintaining industrial presses, which requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and may involve working in noisy environments, but with proper training and experience, it becomes manageable. Some positions may require certifications or knowledge of specific machinery.
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Prototype Press Operator jobs near you

2 Color Press Operator - 3rd Shift

J L CLARK INC

Rockford, IL

$36.14 - $37.85/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

At J.L. Clark, we don’t just make packaging, we help build iconic brands. Since 1904, we've blended craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to deliver packaging solutions that stand out on shelves and stand the test of time. With more than 120 years of experience behind us, our passion for quality, service, and innovation is stronger than ever.

As we grow, so does our investment in the future. From our new 6-color printing press and injection molding presses to advanced rapid prototyping and high-speed fabrication systems, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of packaging technology.

Sustainability is more than a goal, it’s part of who we are. As the first North American metal lithographer to earn SGP Certification, and a multiple-time recipient of the Illinois Governor’s Sustainability Award, we take pride in building a better tomorrow.

Come be part of a company where tradition meets transformation, and where your work truly makes an impact.

Position Summary: 

Responsible for preparation and operation of tandem (2-color) offset lithography press line with trailing coater.

Education, Training & Experience: 

Position requires one of the following (which could include short specialty courses plus completion of company litho apprentice program or comparable experience):

  • A minimum of one (1) year high school.
  • GED equivalency.
  • A minimum of one (1) year vocational school.
  • Two (2) years of experience is necessary to develop skills and knowledge to perform proficiently.

Supervises:

None

Supervised By:

Lithography Manager 

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Automatic feeder, single color offset lithographic press, drying oven, load turner, automatic stacker, spectrophotometer, various small hand tools.  Must have better-than-average mechanical ability.  Must have excellent color vision and have an excellent aptitude in color discrimination which requires passing the Farnsworth Munsel 100 Hue Test.  Required to stand for long periods of time and climb up and down on press.

RELATIONSHIPS:

Litho, Tin Stores and Art departments

Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Considerable skill is required to maintain proper ink balance and registration.
  2. Responsible for assigned daily work schedule and orders from schedule clerk.  Must be able to interpret orders with special setups and procedures necessary press plates, inks, color samples, and other necessary supplies
  3. Responsible for setting up complete press in necessary very close tolerances including mechanical gauging, setting of press plates, blanket, ink, and water rollers when necessary.
  4. Responsible for function of complete line of equipment as well as feeder and tender assigned.
  5. Trains and supervises all work assigned to Press Feeder and instructs oven tender on manner sheets are to be piled for specific job involved, either manually or by automatic stacker.  Must indicate during run, spoiled sheets that are to be either “kept separate” or discarded as spoilage.
  6. Adjusts oven heats for correct bake and checks this every load during run.
  7. Adjust ink for proper running, puts in fountain, and adjusts controls for proper coverage.
  8. Adjusts register and develops correct lay and color for supervisor’s OK.
  9. Is responsible for maintaining lithographic quality with correct color and registry through run.  (This requires constant highly skilled attention.)
  10. Is responsible for checking sheets at discharge end for proper drying, color control and keeps ink and water fountains supplied.
  11. Retimes press registry system when necessary and assembles all required color samples of new jobs or replacement samples of repeat jobs for ink room files.
  12. Checks recorded information on completed work orders for correct sheetage and spoilage, etc.
  13. Supervises set-up of trailing coater making sure correct materials, etc., are being used.  Is responsible for checking operating functions of trailing coater, during run, making sure proper coverage and quality is being obtained.

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