Press Operator

CJK Group•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

The Timson Press Operator prints and folds signatures according to work-order specifications, producing bindery-ready book bundles that meet or exceed customer expectations. The operator oversees press operations, including machine setup, printing, folding, quality inspection, data collection, and preparation of bundles for bindery. The role also includes routine machine maintenance and cleaning, troubleshooting and minor repairs, assisting maintenance personnel, training an Assistant in machine operation and safety, and preparing the work area for the next shift.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, one to three months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
One year of printing experience.
Ability to read and comprehend instructions.
Ability to read and interpret work orders, workplace and safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Basic math skills, including addition and subtraction, and ability to use a measuring device.
Basic problem-solving skills.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently and 20 pounds constantly.
Ability to constantly perform work activities involving movement between tasks or worksites, communication, and operation of machines and/or power tools.
Ability to work in noisy environments.

Nice To Haves

Ability to work with software packages including Microsoft Office and Excel.
Effective email and electronic communication skills.
Ability to work with a pallet jack, paper turning disc, razor knives, hand knives, slab-off skives, pallet wrap holder, vacuum lift, plate bender, plate carts, hand tools, grease guns, air hose nozzles, and shaft handling cart.
Ability to occasionally climb ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and similar structures.
Ability to occasionally change position to accomplish tasks in various environments, including tight spaces.
Ability to occasionally remain stationary, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Ability to occasionally adjust or move objects up to 50 pounds in all directions.
Ability to occasionally perform repetitive motions involving the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
Ability to assess the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of assigned work.
Ability to work occasionally in high temperatures and small or enclosed spaces.

Responsibilities

Read and understand work orders, verifying substrate, bind type, ink color, and run lengths.
Interpret work-order information and follow the daily running order provided by the Scheduling Team.
Communicate with the Supervisor and Scheduling Team as needed.
Set up the machine and perform quality printing and folding of text and halftone work.
Maintain throughput through efficient make-readies, job changeovers, and folder changeovers.
Inspect work for defects and ensure quality standards are met.
Maintain accurate data collections.
Understand substrate weights, PPI, size, grain direction, coating, marking, and storage.
Oversee all segments of press operation.
Ensure bundles meet bindery needs, including proper identification.
Dispose of waste properly, including printed and blank substrate, inks, and fountain solution.
Perform preventative maintenance, general cleaning, and upkeep of the machine and auxiliary equipment.
Train the Assistant in machine operation and safety, and ensure the Assistant performs assigned duties.
Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs to the machine and auxiliary equipment.
Assist maintenance personnel with machine repairs.
Exercise initiative, ask questions, and identify ways to improve productivity.
Keep the work area safe and clean.
Communicate adequately with the oncoming shift and complete end-of-shift duties so the area is ready for that shift.
Perform other duties as assigned.