Press Operator

Press Operator

Gannett Publishing Services - USA TODAY CO.

Des Moines, IA

The Press Operator I is assigned to perform printing related tasks to support efficient press operations as needed to achieve and maintain on-time production, product quality standards, low waste, and operational safety.

Pressroom Tasks

• Reel operations: Request, deliver and stage newsprint rolls, set reels, prepare approved paste patterns for all roll sizes, use web kites/devices as applicable, monitor automatic pasters and/or make hand pasters assist with reel room reports as required.
• Unit make-ready: Prepare press configurations, check and prepare units for operation, spot plates, ink make-ready, web-up, conveyor set-up and folder set-up.
• Basic press control proficiency to reduce waste and achieve quality standards which may include: Press inch, start and stop, speed adjustments, CMYK ink and water balance, CMYK ink density, registration and compensation, web tension/nip and trolley settings, slitter adjustments, assisting with lost web recovery & press restarts.
• Densitometer calibration & operation.
• Perform general press maintenance including cleaning and replacing blankets, wiping down press units, installing, checking & adjusting rollers, folder clean out, replacing cutting bars, and other press maintenance as specified.

• Ensure timely and accurate execution of platemaking functions.
• CTP operations: Request, deliver, and stage plates.
• Product make-ready: Prepare digital page queues, check, prepare & operate equipment to image, bend & sort plates.
• May assist with plate reports.

• Always work in a safe manner and consistently utilize required safety equipment to promote top-of-mind safety awareness:
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Complete required annual OSHA safety training programs.
• Ensure all machine safety-guards are installed, functioning properly, and in use.
• Immediately report any potential safety hazards, operational concerns and all accidents/injuries and near misses to press management and supervisors.

• Provide timely and accurate reports and information to the operations team and management.
• Immediately report equipment issues to management.
• Other duties as assigned