Flexographic Wide Web Press Operator

The Wide Web Flexographic Press Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of a high-speed, multi-color Central Impression (CI) flexographic printing press ranging from 52 to 55 inches in width. This role requires extensive knowledge of flexible packaging substrates (films, foils, laminates), solvent and water-based inks, and a deep commitment to producing high-quality print in accordance with customer specifications, while maintaining efficiency and safety standards.

Need a seasoned, well experienced pressman who can perform almost immediately.

Candidates who seem to match these requirements will be flown in to observe and then to work on site for evaluation at company expense.

Reports to the Press Department Manager

Setup:
Mount and register printing plates, install anilox rolls, adjust ink pumping systems, and prepare doctor blades according to job specifications.

Operation:
Operate the flexographic press (e.g., W&H, Bobst, Comexi) at optimal speed to achieve production targets while maintaining excellent print quality, registration, and color consistency at optimum web speed without compromising quality.

Substrate Management:
Handle large, wide rolls of substrate, including loading and unloading using roll-handling equipment (forklift and roll lifts).

Monitor web tension, treating systems (e.g., corona/plasma), and drying systems. No experience with treating systems is required.

Ink Management:

Experience with Solvent based inks a prerequisite, Client does not use water based inks Viscosity checks and adjust

Mix and manage solvent- based inks, ensuring color match to specified Pantone standards or approved targets using spectrophotometers. Company uses only solvent based inks, so water based ink experience isn’t required.

Inspection:
Continuously monitor print quality for defects such as mis-registration, color variations, haloing, dirty print, skips, and streaking.

Measurement:
Use precision instruments (spectrophotometers, densitometers and micrometers) to verify color, density, and registration. No stroboscope = video web inspection only.

Documentation:
Accurately complete all production paperwork, including run reports, quality checks, material usage, and downtime logs.

Safety & Compliance:
Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, including proper handling of flammable materials (solvents/inks) and Lockout/Tagout procedures.

Troubleshooting:
Identify and diagnose mechanical, electrical, and print-related issues, making appropriate adjustments or escalating complex problems to maintenance personnel.

Maintenance:
Perform routine and preventative maintenance on the press, including cleaning ink pans, anilox rolls, plate cylinders, and maintaining the press area to 5S standards.

Experience:

Minimum of 3-5 years of experience operating wide web (50"+) multi-color CI flexographic printing presses. Experience with solvent-based inks is essential.

Technical Knowledge:
Strong understanding of flexographic printing principles, plate mounting techniques, anilox selection, and color theory.

Mechanical Aptitude:
Proven ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve press operational issues promptly.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and handle large rolls of material using assisted equipment. Must be able to distinguish colors accurately.

Work Ethic:
Highly dependable, safety-conscious, and capable of working effectively without supervision in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Certification or training from a major press manufacturer (e.g., W&H, Bobst, Comexi).

Experience with automated register control systems and defect detection systems.

Familiarity with ISO/HACCP/AIB quality standards related to food-grade packaging.

Salary/Wage:
Commensurate with experience

Benefits:
Health, Dental, vision, 401(k) matching, Paid Time Off, Shift Differential

Relocation and interview costs

Southwest Location - Albuquerque, NM - ideal climate, beautiful mountains and sky

Smaller non-corporate work environment, but stable. growing company.

An opportunity for someone who 'wants to make a difference' and be noticed.