Press Operator- NIGHTs

Position: Press Operator
Location: Hickory
Shift: Night Shift | 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM | 12-hour 2-2-3 schedule
Pay Rate: $26.97/hour + $2.00/hour shift differential

Summary Description

The Press Operator reports directly to the Plant Superintendent and is responsible for the complete operation of the press, ensuring production goals, print quality, and safe execution of all printing processes while supporting team development and operational efficiency.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Meet and exceed machine production goals
• Assume full responsibility for complete press operation and production quality
• Direct and support the performance and ongoing training of the Press Assistant
• Train the assistant to run the press independently with minimal support when needed
• Perform full print job setup including plates, sleeves, ink match, make-ready, anilox rollers, and film verification
• Maintain print quality including print position, copy accuracy, UPC codes, registration, and impressions
• Place roll tickets and weights on each roll and maintain accurate Shop Floor computer records
• Return inks, plates, sleeves, film, and materials to correct locations with proper identification
• Report damaged or worn plates for replacement
• Use web monitoring systems effectively
• Demonstrate full understanding of make-ready sequence
• Apply tension controls appropriately across different substrates
• Set proper impression on plates and anilox rollers
• Draw off bag dimensions for finished and converted bags
• Adjust dot gains and densities to match proof requirements
• Complete plate mounting procedures using proper tapes and mounting methods
• Partner with maintenance on operator‑based machine maintenance
• Handle hazardous waste according to trained procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shift Leader or Production Manager

We’d Love to Hear From You If

• Previous printing press experience is required
• You have flexographic printing experience on film and/or paper
• You have experience operating multi‑color web‑fed printing presses
• You understand company printing procedures and quality standards
• You have technical knowledge of inks, color, and film properties
• You can read and interpret work orders, artwork, and specification sheets
• You understand machine operating capabilities and press functions
• You have successfully fulfilled Press Assistant I and II requirements or equivalent experience
• You have technical training and/or apprenticeship experience up to three years as an operator

Benefits

At TOPPAN Packaging Americas, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support overall wellbeing. Benefits may vary based on location, employment classification, or collective bargaining agreement and may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources
• Paid time off and holidays
• Company‑paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer

TOPPAN Packaging Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.