Assistant Press Operator (2nd Press Operator)

  • Full-Time
  • Houston, TX
  • RR Donnelley
  • Posted 3 years ago – Accepting applications
Job Description

Performs manual and machine operator tasks in the set up, maintenance and operation of printing press.

Responsibilities include:

  • Safe operation of assigned press
  • Examine job tickets to determine details such as quantities to be printed, production times, stock specification, colors and color sequences.
  • Select and install printing plates, rollers, feed guides, gauges, etc, according to specifications.
  • Monitor feeding, printing and racking processes of presses in order to maintain specified operating levels and detect malfunctions; make any necessary adjustments.
  • Inspect and examine printed products for print clarity, color accuracy, conformance to specifications and external defects.
  • Maintain make-ready, production speed and waste standards.
  • Maintain records of goods produced, supplies used, production costs and machine maintenance and repair activities.
  • Perform proper machine start-up and shut down procedures.
  • Repair, maintain or adjust equipment.
  • Cross-train as Press Operator 1 and participate in the orientation and training of new hires. Substitute as Press Operator 1 when directed.
  • May be used in any other position in the press department as needed for the purposes of production efficiency and the training of press crews.
  • It is the responsibility of all associates to follow the requirements of documented process as defined in the ISO Quality manual.

Assists Press Operator with press make ready, operating, and maintaining sheet-fed or web offset printing press. This includes inserting packing sheets on plate cylinder to build up plate to printing height, fastening reinforcing bars to offset blankets, and installing plates and blankets on press cylinders, using hand tools and power tools, to achieve pressure required for printing. Adjusts press machine parts, such as feeder and delivery mechanisms, suction grippers, guides, feed wheels, jogging devices, tapes, and cams, using hand tools. Assist in removing and replacing worn rollers and adjusting pressure between rollers of press, using hand tools. Wash blankets and cleans ink and ink distributing rollers and ink fountains, using ink solvent and cleaning mechanism on press. Assist Press Operator by making necessary color or register corrections and/or press adjustments prior to production run to meet and maintain the quality specifications of the work.

Third shift position.


RRD is an EEO/AA including Vets and Disabled Employer


Required Skills

Requires general knowledge of offset presswork procedures and materials. Ability to read and follow job specifications to determine press set-up materials needed to run the job successfully. Skill to follow instructions to operate equipment safely and produce the desired product. Ability to use micrometer to mount and align the printing plate correctly. Ability to make adjustments to feeder and feed board (e.g., ability to adjust suctions and blast, front and side guides and the timing of the head stops). Skill in performing routine operational maintenance and minor repairs to equipment under guidance of senior level Press Operators.

With or without an accommodation must be able to lift and handle materials of 50+ lbs, while pushing, pulling, reaching, lifting and twisting; and must be able to stand continually with frequent bending, climbing and squatting.

Ability to work in a team environment, be reliable and have excellent attention to detail.

Ability to work all shifts and overtime as required based upon production demands.


Required Experience

Minimum of 3 years experience as an Assistant Press Operator on a multi color Harris or Heidelberg Web press. Good understanding of press mechanics, register and guides. Must be able to operate and troubleshoot feeder and delivery sections.

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