Hotpress Operator - Swing - Springfield Plywood
Listed on 2026-07-18
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Manufacturing / Production
Machine Operator, Manufacturing & Industrial Operations, Maintenance Technician / Mechanic
Press Operator
Since our founding in 1951, Swanson Group has proudly remained a multigenerational, family-owned company. We are committed to fostering a welcome and supportive workplace where every team member is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
At Swanson Group, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, working alongside dedicated employees who share a passion for excellence. We believe in building a culture that encourages growth, collaboration, and long-term success.
Explore our current job openings and discover how you can become a valued member of the Swanson Group family today!
Position Title: Press Operator
Reports To: Spreader Supervisor
Department: Spreaders
Hours per shift: Employee works 10-hour shifts, with three 10-minute breaks, and 30-minute unpaid lunch.
Day: 4:45 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. Swing: 3:15 P.M. to 2:00 A.M.
Wage: Level 3
Position Purpose: Pressing veneer into plywood utilizing the functions of the hot press through manipulation of controls, loading, and unloading. Maintain the time, temperature, and the pressure of the hot press by following press schedule. Keep a safe and clean work environment by removing obstructing debris. Operator must communicate with the Line Tender to ensure quality standards are met.
Position Functions:
Press Operator:
Essential Functions
* These duties are designated as ADA Essential Functions and must be performed in this job.
The Press Operator guides loads of un-pressed veneer into the press area through manipulation of controls and buttons.
The operator rides on an elevator with the unit of veneer and loads several layers of veneer into one press opening at a time.
After each panel is loaded the elevator indexes down to the next opening and the process is repeated until all veneer is loaded into the press.
The operator must complete this operation within one and half minutes to prevent the glue from drying in press.
The press ranges in temperatures of 270 degrees F to 360 Degrees
F.
The operator then closes the press by manipulation of controls.
The Operator sets the time, heat and pressure based on panel thickness and species of veneer used.
The operator also operates a computer-based inventory system which prints tickets to attach to pressed wood.
Non-Essential Functions: These duties are secondary in nature and are not classified as ADA essential.
The worker may be required to rotate to different positions for cross training purposes or to facilitate production. Job duties for other positions are outlined in their individual job descriptions. Assist Co-Workers or maintenance personnel in basic maintenance and upkeep of machine.
Working Environment: (1) Inside 100% average temperature 70 degrees F (2) Outside 0%; extreme low temperature 10 degrees F, extreme high temperature 115 degrees
F. Noise or vibration:
Machine noise to include machine being operated as well as other machines close by including Forklifts. Hazards:
See Job Hazard Analysis. (3) Atmospheric conditions:
Fumes:
Wood, Dust:
Limited, Mist:
Water, Odors:
Wood particle, Gasses:
None, Poor Ventilation:
None
Personal Protective Equipment Required: (1) Eye Protection. (2) Hearing Protection. (3) Blue Atlas gloves when feeding re-dry veneer. (4) Approved Footwear.
Physical Demands: See the attached Job/Task Evaluation and Physical Capabilities portion; this position requires constant use of hearing and vision, frequent bending, twisting, pushing/pulling and reaching, and occasional lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling more than 50 lbs.
Skills: Must have excellent hand eye coordination. Use vision/hearing continuously. Reading and speech required to communicate comprehension of Job Hazard Analysis, machine specific lockout procedures, monthly safety training, etc. Worker generally works with one other operator with little supervision. Operators must be self-directed in identifying and efficiently completing each task. Ability to prioritize, organize and make necessary decisions.
Safety: (1) Do only maintenance you are trained to do and keep all body parts out of machinery. (2) Always use our 14-step lockout/tagout procedure before doing any maintenance, clearing jams, or getting into machinery for any reason; be aware of stored energy. (3) Always use proper body mechanics (ex: don't overreach, get help as needed to push loads out). (4) Use proper PPE (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection).
(5) Be aware of and always communicate with your co-worker (ex: forklift driver). (6) Will be required to read and write during safety training.
Employee Signature
Employee Name (print):
Employee Signature:
Date:
Employer Representative Signature
Supervisor Name (print):
Supervisor Signature:
Date:
Equal Opportunity
Employer:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other status protected by law.
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