Press Operator Apprentice

Press Operator ApprenticeThe Press Operator Apprentice supports the efficient operation of high-speed printing presses by handling material flow, operating auxiliary equipment, and maintaining product quality throughout each press run. This role focuses on learning press operations, assisting with setup and maintenance activities, and ensuring that all printed materials meet established standards for accuracy, quality, and waste control.ResponsibilitiesMaintain proper market identification by checking mastheads, skid tickets, and verifying accurate counts throughout press runs.Operate and maintain robotic equipment used in the pressroom to support material handling and production flow.Operate and maintain stacker machines to ensure signatures are properly stacked and organized.Stack signatures and monitor the overall quality of skids to ensure they meet production standards.Identify and promptly report any noticeable print defects to appropriate press personnel or supervisors.Coordinate removal of paper waste in the pressroom to maintain a clean and safe work area.Complete all assigned tasks during make-ready periods and other press downtime to support efficient press operation.Assist with webbing up the printing press during setups and changeovers.Keep presses stocked with necessary supplies such as paper, ink, and packaging materials.Assist with the removal of waste ink, used printing plates, press-side garbage, skids, slip sheets, and plastic packaging.Assist with changing slip sheets at the printing units to support smooth production.Assist with manual signature stacking when needed to maintain production flow.Assist with cleaning press water systems and changing filters to support equipment performance.Perform Press Operator responsibilities when needed, under guidance, to support continuous operations.Complete preventive maintenance assignments and initiate work orders when equipment issues are identified.Develop job skills and equipment knowledge necessary for advancement to higher press operation levels.Monitor product waste and contribute to waste reduction efforts throughout the pressroom.Essential SkillsAbility to operate production machinery and follow established operating procedures.General production experience or understanding of manufacturing workflows.Mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn how complex equipment functions.Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while performing pressroom tasks.Ability to regularly lift and move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds.Capability to use hands to finger, handle, or feel materials and equipment and to talk and hear in a loud production environment.Ability to frequently reach with hands and arms and climb steps or ladders up to 25 feet or maintain balance in elevated areas.Ability to occasionally sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl when working on or around press equipment.Strong visual abilities including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.Additional Skills & QualificationsComfort working around moving mechanical parts, fumes, and airborne particles in an industrial setting.Ability to follow safety procedures when handling chemicals that require special handling.Willingness to work in environments with vibration, high or precarious places, and potential exposure to electrical components.Attention to detail in monitoring product quality, waste, and correct identification of printed materials.Willingness to learn and take on additional responsibilities as skills and experience grow.Ability to work collaboratively with press operators and supervisors to resolve issues and maintain productivity.Why Work Here?This opportunity offers hands-on training in a dynamic production environment, providing a clear path for skill development and career growth in press operations. You will work with modern equipment and be supported by a team that values safety, continuous improvement, and learning on the job. The rotating schedule allows for extended periods off between shifts, supporting a balance between work and personal time.Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a busy industrial pressroom where you will regularly work around moving mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, chemicals requiring special handling, and vibration. You may occasionally work in high or elevated areas and near electrical components. The noise level is typically loud, and appropriate hearing protection and safety gear are used as required. The position follows a 12-hour rotating schedule from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with initial training conducted on the day shift during the first few weeks. The work involves frequent standing, walking, climbing, and material handling in a fast-paced production setting.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Durham, NC.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $18.90 - $18.90/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment.

Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Durham, NC.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 1, 2026.