Machine Operator - Printing

Responsibilities​

Press Setup & Pre-Run Preparation:

• Review job cards, artwork specs, and production schedules to understand order requirements (substrates, die-cuts, rewind direction, line screen, and quantity).

• Mount photopolymer printing plates accurately on cylinders and set up print stations (flexographic/rotary dies/foiling units).

• Thread raw substrate materials through press tension rollers, corona treaters, and drying/UV curing units.

• Load correct ink formulations provided by the Ink Kitchen, adjusting ink viscosity and pH to match target Pantone colours and client proofs.

Production & Operations:

• Run trial proofs to verify registration, colour accuracy, print quality, and web tension before starting full production runs.

• Operate printing presses efficiently to hit production targets while maintaining minimal material, substrate, and ink waste.

• Oversee integrated press processes such as cold/hot foil stamping, lamination, varnish application, and inline rotary die-cutting.

Quality Control & Inspection:

• Conduct continuous visual inspections and inline video monitoring during print runs to identify defects (e.g., misregistration, ink hickeys, streaking, or colour drift).

• Measure colour densities using densitometers/spectrophotometers against approved signed proofs.

• Maintain strict quality assurance documentation, press logs, and batch traces per ISO standards.

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Carry out routine preventive maintenance on press machinery (cleaning anilox rollers, doctor blades, plate cylinders, and ink pans).

• Diagnose operational and mechanical issues during production runs and coordinate with the maintenance team for corrective actions.

Health, Safety & Cleanliness:

• Adhere to strict Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Keep press area clean and organized following 5S principles.

• Handle inks, solvents, and hazardous chemical waste safely and in compliance with local environmental guidelines.