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Slitter Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... trolley settings, slitter adjustments, assisting with lost web recovery & press restarts ... May assist with plate reports. Safety * Always work in a safe manner and consistently utilize ...

... trolley settings, slitter adjustments, assisting with lost web recovery & press restarts ... May assist with plate reports. Safety * Always work in a safe manner and consistently utilize ...

Operators will lead in all aspects of operation of rewind/slitter lines including change-overs ... Train and direct the rewind assistant to become efficient at all the required assistant duties ...

Operators will lead inall aspects of operation of rewind/slitter lines including change-overs ... Train and direct the rewind assistant to become efficient at all the required assistant duties ...

... trolley settings, slitter adjustments, assisting with lost web recovery & press restarts ... May assist with plate reports. Safety * Always work in a safe manner and consistently utilize ...

Slitter Assistant information

What is a slitter assistant?

Slitter assistants are workers who support the operation of slitting machines, which are used to cut large rolls of materials like paper, film, or metal into narrower strips. Their responsibilities typically include loading and unloading materials, monitoring the slitting process, ensuring product quality, and assisting with machine maintenance. Slitter assistants work closely with machine operators to keep production running efficiently and safely, and may also help with packaging finished products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a slitter assistant?

To thrive as a Slitter Assistant, you need a basic understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with slitting machines, measuring tools, and safety protocols is typically required, along with on-the-job training or certifications related to machine operation. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help a Slitter Assistant collaborate effectively and respond quickly to production issues. These skills are important to ensure product quality, maintain workplace safety, and support efficient production flow.

What are some common challenges a slitter assistant might face in their day-to-day work?

Slitter Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise material alignment, managing fast-paced production schedules, and ensuring safety protocols are followed around heavy machinery. They must also be attentive to detail to quickly identify and address material defects or equipment malfunctions. Effective communication with machine operators and team members is essential to keep operations running smoothly and to prevent delays or errors.

What is the difference between Slitter Assistant vs Material Handler?

AspectSlitter AssistantMaterial Handler
CredentialsBasic OSHA training, possibly forklift certificationOSHA training, forklift certification often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or printing facilities, operating machineryWarehouses, distribution centers, handling materials
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, printing, or converting industriesLogistics, warehousing, manufacturing

While both roles involve physical work in industrial settings, a Slitter Assistant primarily supports the operation of slitting machines in manufacturing, whereas a Material Handler focuses on moving and organizing materials within warehouses or distribution centers. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and certifications.

How to become a slitter assistant?

To become a slitter assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have basic math and mechanical skills. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with safety procedures and equipment is important. Some employers may prefer candidates with prior manufacturing or warehouse experience.
Infographic showing various Slitter Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Press Operator I

gannett

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Gannett rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated media


Job description

PRESS OPERATOR I

Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO

Des Moines, IA

This position pays $22 per hour based on background and experience.

We are also offering a sign on bonus of $2,250  paid out in 3 increments of $750 each

The Press Operator I is assigned to perform printing related tasks to support efficient press operations as needed to achieve and maintain on-time production, product quality standards, low waste, and operational safety.  

Pressroom Tasks

  • Reel operations: Request, deliver and stage newsprint rolls, set reels, prepare approved paste patterns for all roll sizes, use web kites/devices as applicable, monitor automatic pasters and/or make hand pasters assist with reel room reports as required.
  • Unit make-ready: Prepare press configurations, check and prepare units for operation, spot plates, ink make-ready, web-up, conveyor set-up and folder set-up.
  • Basic press control proficiency to reduce waste and achieve quality standards which may include: Press inch, start and stop, speed adjustments, CMYK ink and water balance, CMYK ink density, registration and compensation, web tension/nip and trolley settings, slitter adjustments, assisting with lost web recovery & press restarts.
  • Densitometer calibration & operation.
  • Perform general press maintenance including cleaning and replacing blankets, wiping down press units, installing, checking & adjusting rollers, folder clean out, replacing cutting bars, and other press maintenance as specified.

Platemaking

  • Ensure timely and accurate execution of platemaking functions.
  • CTP operations: Request, deliver, and stage plates.
  • Product make-ready: Prepare digital page queues, check, prepare & operate equipment to image, bend & sort plates.
  • May assist with plate reports.

Safety

  • Always work in a safe manner and consistently utilize required safety equipment to promote top-of-mind safety awareness:
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment. 
  • Complete required annual OSHA safety training programs.
  • Ensure all machine safety-guards are installed, functioning properly, and in use.
  • Immediately report any potential safety hazards, operational concerns and all accidents/injuries and near misses to press management and supervisors.

Communications

  • Provide timely and accurate reports and information to the operations team and management.
  • Immediately report equipment issues to management.
  • Other duties as assigned

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