Litho Printer

Smurfit Westrock the global leader in paper-based packaging is offering opportunities at their Belfast based plant (Mallusk Newtownabbey) The Belfast plant is the largest pharmaceutical packaging facility in Ireland and has been in existence for over 100 years. We offer secure full-time employment with excellent career development opportunities, highly competitive salary and employee incentives. The Belfast site has an annual turnover >£40

million and 170 FT employees. Due to continued growth, we are seeking to fill the role:

Lithographic printer Pharmaceutical Packaging

We are seeking an experienced Lithographic Printer to join our Belfast site. This is a key role within a regulated manufacturing environment, where quality, accuracy, and compliance are essential.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the operation and routine maintenance of lithographic printing presses, ensuring all work meets GMP standards, customer specifications, and internal quality requirements. You will take ownership of print quality and colour consistency, contributing to continuous improvement and right-first-time production.

This role is ideal for a motivated print professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and takes pride in delivering high-quality, compliant pharmaceutical packaging.

Job Purpose

You will take ownership of the first stage of our production process, ensuring pharmaceutical packaging products are completed to the highest standards. This includes full machine setup, operation, and optimisation, working as part of a small crew and maintaining strict compliance within industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance & Machine Care

• Carry out machine setup, routine checks, and planned maintenance in line with the company maintenance programme
• Maintain excellent housekeeping around the machine and work area
• Work closely with engineering to report faults and improve machine reliability
• Assist with fault-finding and resolving machine issues

Production & Quality

• Set up and run printing press to optimum performance
• Complete the first stage of producing pharmaceutical packaging products
• Meet daily, weekly, and monthly production targets
• Maximise machine efficiency and minimise downtime
• Support continuous improvement and participate in improvement projects
• Work in accordance with company procedures to comply with Health & Safety requirements

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• At least 2 years experience in setting up, operating, and carrying out basic maintenance on machinery within a print/packaging environment
• Experience with Komori or Heidelberg presses is a strong advantage
• Ability to take ownership of output and product quality

Person Specification

• Results-driven with a strong focus on quality
• Flexible and able to work a various shift pattern, Monday to Friday
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication skills
• Confident problem-solver with a proactive mindset
• Adaptable and open to change

Salary

Competitive salary: £40,000 £ 47,000 (depending on experience)

Opportunities for Progression

Skilled operators who demonstrate initiative, leadership, and strong technical ability will have opportunities to progress into:

• Senior Machine Operator roles
• Crew Leader or Shift Leader positions
• Technical specialist or trainer roles
• Continuous improvement or project roles

Benefits

• Free onsite parking.
• Enhanced pension contributions.
• 195 hours flexible holiday allowance, plus 8 annual bank holidays.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Company sponsored education opportunities.
• Employee perks and discount platform.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Long service awards.
• Reward and recognition initiatives.
• Shift premium paid in addition to basic salary.
• Oopportunities for voluntary overtime paid at a premium rate.