What Does a Press Operator Do?
A press operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining presses that produce printed materials or fabricated parts. They load materials, calibrate machines, and monitor production runs to ensure accuracy and consistency. Press operators work with different types of presses depending on the industry, including offset, digital, and flexographic machines in printing, or hydraulic and mechanical presses in manufacturing.
In addition to running equipment, a press operator inspects finished products for quality, performs routine machine maintenance, and ensures production deadlines are met. They follow safety protocols, troubleshoot machine errors, and may assist in training new operators. By balancing technical skill with attention to detail, press operators help deliver high-quality products efficiently and safely.
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Press Operator Core Responsibilities
- Set up and calibrate presses for production runs
- Load paper, metal, or other materials into machines
- Monitor operations and make adjustments to maintain quality standards
- Inspect finished products for defects or inconsistencies
- Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting
- Follow workplace safety procedures and maintain a clean workspace
- Record production data and report issues to supervisors
- Collaborate with team members to meet daily production goals
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in operating printing or industrial presses
- Knowledge of machine calibration and adjustment procedures
- Ability to read blueprints, work orders, or production specifications
- Familiarity with quality control standards and inspection methods
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Problem-solving mindset for addressing machine issues
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Technical training in printing technology or machine operations recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–3 years of experience in printing, manufacturing, or machine operation
- OSHA safety certification or industry-specific training
- Experience with computerized or automated press systems
National Average Salary
Press operator salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Position is:
$123,456
Sample Job Description Templates for Press Operators
Entry-Level Press Operator
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level press operator to assist in the setup and operation of printing or industrial presses. This role is ideal for individuals new to manufacturing or printing who are eager to learn machine operation and quality standards in a hands-on environment.
Responsibilities
- Assist in loading materials such as paper, metal, or packaging stock into machines
- Monitor press operations under supervision to ensure consistency
- Perform basic quality checks on finished products
- Maintain cleanliness of machines and work areas
- Follow safety procedures and company policies at all times
- Support senior operators with press setup and troubleshooting tasks
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of machinery and mechanical processes
- Ability to read simple work orders or instructions
- Familiarity with tools for minor adjustments and cleaning
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and follow instructions carefully
- Strong attention to detail in repetitive tasks
- Reliability and teamwork
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in a warehouse, printing, or manufacturing environment helpful
Experienced Press Operator
Position Overview
We are hiring an experienced press operator to independently run production presses and ensure accuracy in high-volume environments. This role requires prior machine operation experience and the ability to meet strict quality and efficiency standards.
Responsibilities
- Set up presses based on job specifications
- Operate machines during production runs and make adjustments as needed
- Conduct quality inspections and correct inconsistencies
- Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on machines
- Record production output and report equipment issues
- Train new hires or entry-level operators on basic press functions
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in operating printing or mechanical presses
- Knowledge of press calibration and quality control procedures
- Ability to troubleshoot common machine issues
Soft skills
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently while meeting deadlines
- Clear communication with supervisors and team members
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–3 years of hands-on press operation experience
- Forklift or equipment safety certification
Senior Press Operator
Position Overview
We are seeking a senior press operator to manage complex production runs and ensure adherence to high quality and efficiency standards. This role requires advanced technical knowledge and the ability to handle more specialized or high-speed presses.
Responsibilities
- Oversee large-scale or complex press operations
- Lead press setup, calibration, and advanced adjustments
- Monitor and resolve technical issues during production runs
- Train and mentor entry-level and experienced operators
- Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards
- Collaborate with supervisors on workflow improvements and production schedules
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of press technology, calibration, and maintenance
- Strong ability to troubleshoot mechanical and software issues
- Proficiency with automated or computerized press systems
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Strong focus on quality assurance and safety
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical coursework recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in press operation
- Previous mentoring or team leadership experience
Lead Press Operator
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead press operator to oversee daily press operations and provide guidance to a team of operators. This role combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities to ensure production goals and quality standards are consistently met.
Responsibilities
- Supervise daily work of press operators and assign tasks
- Oversee press setups, production runs, and machine changeovers
- Ensure accuracy, quality, and efficiency in all press operations
- Train and mentor operators on advanced press techniques
- Assist with scheduling and workflow coordination in collaboration with supervisors
- Monitor compliance with safety and operational procedures
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of press operation and production workflows
- Knowledge of advanced quality control practices
- Ability to manage and track production metrics
Soft skills
- Leadership and staff coaching abilities
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills
- Effective communication with staff and management
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in press operations
- Prior team lead or supervisory experience
Press Operator Supervisor
Position Overview
We are seeking a press operator supervisor to manage a department of operators, oversee workflow, and ensure compliance with quality and safety standards. This role emphasizes leadership, operational planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and evaluate press operator staff performance
- Manage production schedules, staffing, and resource allocation
- Oversee press operations to meet safety, quality, and efficiency goals
- Conduct performance reviews and coach team members
- Collaborate with management to implement process improvements
- Ensure regulatory compliance and workplace safety protocols are followed
Requirements
Hard skills
- In-depth knowledge of press operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Strong ability to oversee production scheduling and staff allocation
- Familiarity with OSHA and safety compliance requirements
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Clear and professional communication with staff and management
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s degree in manufacturing or technical field preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of press operation experience with at least 2 years in a supervisory role
- Experience in process improvement or lean manufacturing practices