Exciting Opportunity – Flexographic Press Operator

This job is posted on behalf of Talent Guide USA by Top Echelon.

JOB DESCRIPTION

CONFIDENTIAL CLIENT | PRINTING & PACKAGING

Flexographic Press Operator – Labels & Packaging

Location: Chicago Area – Des Plaines, IL Schedule: Full-Time | Shift [Confirm] Compensation: $25.00–$31.00 per hour, based on experience Industry: Flexographic Printing | Pressure-Sensitive Labels | Packaging

About the Role

We are working with an established label and packaging manufacturer in the Chicago area seeking an experienced Flexographic Press Operator to join its production team.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on press operation, takes pride in producing high-quality printed labels, and can independently handle press setups, adjustments, troubleshooting, and production runs.

The company offers a stable manufacturing environment, competitive benefits, hands-on training, and opportunities for long-term career growth.

What You’ll Do

• Set up, operate, and maintain flexographic printing presses used to produce pressure-sensitive labels and related printed products.

• Read and interpret job tickets, production specifications, and work instructions.

• Install printing plates, print cylinders, dies, and other press components.

• Prepare ink systems, including ink pans, pumps, and related equipment.

• Perform press setups, job changeovers, and adjustments to maintain production efficiency.

• Monitor print quality, color consistency, registration, impression, and die-cut accuracy throughout production runs.

• Inspect printed samples and make necessary adjustments to correct defects.

• Mix and adjust inks to achieve required colors and viscosity.

• Troubleshoot printing problems, including registration issues, ink starvation, and inconsistent print quality.

• Perform routine cleaning, preventive maintenance, and basic equipment troubleshooting.

• Maintain accurate production records and follow established quality procedures.

• Follow plant safety guidelines and maintain a clean, organized work area.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 1 year of flexographic printing experience preferred; additional experience is a plus.

• Experience setting up and operating printing presses in a production environment.

• Understanding of printing fundamentals, including registration, impression, color, and ink control.

• Ability to read job tickets, measurements, and production specifications.

• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot press-related issues.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift or move up to 50 pounds, with or without mechanical assistance.

Preferred Background

• Experience in narrow-web flexographic printing.

• Previous experience producing pressure-sensitive labels or similar packaging products.

• Familiarity with multicolor printing, die-cutting, and finishing processes.

• Experience performing complete press setups and changeovers.

• Background in commercial label printing or packaging manufacturing.

Equipment / Technical Experience

• Flexographic printing presses; specific manufacturers and models [Confirm].

• Printing plates, cylinders, dies, and registration systems.

• Ink mixing, viscosity control, and color matching.

• Pressure-sensitive label stock, films, and other applicable substrates.

• Print inspection, defect identification, and quality control.

• Pr