Lead Litho Press OperatorShift: 2nd shift- 5:30pm-5:30amPay Range: $ 38.00- $ 43.00Equipment:Heidelberg Speedmaster CX 102-6+LHeidelberg Speedmaster XL 105-6+LXHeidelberg Speedmaster SX 102-8PJob DescriptionThe Lead Litho Press Operator provides hands-on leadership for daily operations and maintenance in the Litho Press department. This role sets the pace for safety, quality, and throughput—coordinating crew assignments, ensuring efficient make-ready and color control, resolving press issues, and supporting continuous improvement.This position partners closely with Scheduling, Prepress, Bindery, and Quality teams to meet customer specifications, delivery commitments, and plant performance goals.ResponsibilitiesLead start-of-shift huddles covering safety, priorities, quality focus, and crew assignmentsCoordinate crew assignments across Heidelberg presses based on workload and skillsetsTroubleshoot press issues including registration, color, sheet handling, marking, scumming, streaking, and roller settingsManage shift handoffs and ensure accurate documentation in job travelers and press logsOversee efficient make-ready processes including plate mounting, blanket/cylinder checks, ink/water balance, and changeoversVerify imposition, plates, substrates, and ink sets prior to production; escalate issues as neededMaintain color standards (density, ?E, gray balance, G7 where applicable) and document resultsEnsure proper documentation and traceability including lot tracking, line clearance, and label controlEnforce and support preventative maintenance (PMs) such as roller care, blankets, filters, and lubricationConfirm readiness of tooling and consumables (plates, blankets, fountain solution, press chemistry, etc.)Support root cause analysis for downtime, defects, and recurring issuesOperate offset presses as neededEnforce all safety procedures including LOTO, machine guarding, and chemical handlingPromote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvementPerform other duties as assignedQualifications5+ years of experience in offset lithography, preferably with Heidelberg sheetfed presses (e.g., Speedmaster) or similarStrong expertise in make-ready, color management, and troubleshooting multi-color presses (aqueous/UV coating experience is a plus)Solid understanding of substrates, ink/water balance, coatings, and pressroom chemistryAbility to read and interpret job tickets, proofs, color standards, and prepress documentationProven leadership experience as a lead operator or senior pressmanBasic computer skills and familiarity with press consoles and quality systemsAbility to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks including standing, walking, and material handlingComfortable working in a production environment with noise, chemicals, and required PPEWillingness to work assigned shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed