Apprentice Offset Press Operator

FLSA Status: Nonexempt

Job Titles: Apprentice Lithographic Press Operator

Job Summary 

Assists in setting up offset lithographic equipment, adds ink to ink fountain, continually inspects printed material, and cleans the press.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Receive job assignment from Offset Press Operator. Obtain plates and inks according to instructions. Assist in setting up the press, including installing packing sheets on impression cylinder, adjusting space between blanket and cylinder, adjusting feed and delivery mechanisms, suction gripper, guides, feed wheels, jogging device and cams. Adds ink during operation and continually inspect the printed copy for fit, correcting any irregularities and reporting same to Press Operator.

Performs routine maintenance on the press, including lubrication with grease gun or oil can, adjusting pressure between rollers and replacing worn rollers. Keeps daily time, production, and material usage records. Operates offset press in absence of Press Operator. Performs other duties as needed or assigned. Maintains cleanliness of work area and equipment.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Carries out conduct and leadership responsibilities in accordance with company policies, procedures, safety, and applicable laws.

Qualifications 

To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

Two years of concentrated study in lithography; or one to three years of printing experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Strong mechanical skills and must have good judgment of color, design, and printing quality.

Language Skills 

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret printing periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from supervisor, press operator, and fellow employees.

Mathematical Skills 

Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations to printing jobs.

Reasoning Ability 

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret a variety of technical instructions and deal with press troubleshooting problems.

Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, talk, or hear and use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. Some independent travel may be required.

Work Environment 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes, toxic chemicals, and heat. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.