Job Description
Job Description
Press Operator – Wide Web Flexographic Press
***RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROVIDED***
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Wide Web Flexographic Press Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for operating and maintaining wide web flexographic printing presses used in the production of high-quality folding carton packaging. The ideal candidate will have experience printing on paperboard substrates, strong color management skills, and the ability to maintain production efficiency while meeting strict quality standards.
The Press Operator will work closely with prepress, quality, and production teams to ensure customer specifications, color consistency, and production schedules are achieved safely and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up, operate, and monitor wide web flexographic printing presses used for folding carton and paperboard packaging production.
- Review job tickets, artwork, color standards, and production specifications prior to press setup.
- Mount plates, sleeves, and anilox rolls according to job requirements.
- Adjust ink viscosity, registration, impression, tension, and drying systems to optimize print quality and production speed.
- Print on a variety of substrates including SBS, CRB, coated/uncoated paperboard, and specialty carton materials.
- Maintain accurate color consistency using densitometers, spectrophotometers, and approved color standards.
- Troubleshoot print defects including streaking, dot gain, trapping, registration, and color variation issues.
- Perform press wash-ups, preventative maintenance, and routine mechanical adjustments.
- Monitor production output to minimize waste and maximize machine uptime and efficiency.
- Ensure all products meet customer quality specifications and company standards.
- Maintain safe work practices and comply with all OSHA and company safety requirements.
- Accurately complete production reports, downtime logs, and quality documentation.
- Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance, and quality teams to improve press performance and workflow efficiency.
Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience operating wide web flexographic printing presses in a packaging or folding carton environment.
- Experience printing folding cartons or paperboard packaging strongly preferred.
- Strong understanding of flexographic print processes, color management, and press mechanics.
- Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and print quality issues independently.
- Experience working with water-based, solvent-based, or UV inks.
- Ability to read and interpret production orders, print specifications, and color targets.
- Mechanical aptitude and strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining quality standards.
- High school diploma or GED required; technical training or printing certifications preferred.
Preferred Experience
- Folding carton, paperboard, or packaging industry experience.
- Experience with wide web CI flexographic presses.
- Knowledge of GMP, SQF, or food packaging standards.
- Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience.
- Experience with inline finishing operations such as die cutting, coating, lamination, or cold foil applications.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods during shift operations.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to work around moving mechanical equipment, inks, and cleaning chemicals.
- Ability to work overtime or rotating shifts as production demands require.