Flexographic Press Specialist

Location: Hickory, NC
Position: Press Operator
Rate: $26.12/hr
Shift: (F Shift) Days- 12 hour, 7am to 7pm, Monday-Thursday

At Sonoco, we have evolved from a small family-run enterprise into a leading global corporation, revolutionizing products and packaging while nurturing the principle that "People Build Businesses." Our dedicated workforce is the foundation of our success, consistently innovating and providing exceptional solutions each year. We proudly operate in over 34 countries, establishing ourselves as a frontrunner in global packaging solutions. Our commitment to sustainability and industrial advancement, along with the remarkable contributions of our team, drives our achievements.

The Press Operator will report directly to the Plant Superintendent.

Key Responsibilities:

• Achieve and surpass production targets for the printing press.
• Oversee the entire operation and output of the press, ensuring the quality of all printed materials.
• Guide and enhance the performance of the press assistant, including training them to operate the press independently when necessary.
• Manage the setup for print jobs, including plates, sleeves, ink matching, and verifying film.
• Ensure print quality by monitoring print position, correct copy, UPC codes, registration, and impressions.
• Label rolls and maintain accurate records in the Shop Floor computer system.
• Return all materials, including inks and plates, to designated locations with proper identification after completing an order.
• Report any damaged or excessively worn plates to the Shift Leader for timely replacement.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the setup and utilization of the web monitoring system.
• Understand and execute the sequence of the make-ready process.
• Comprehend tension controls and their application to various substrates.
• Learn to set the correct impression on plates and anilox rollers and demonstrate this skill.
• Exhibit the ability to measure and adjust bag dimensions for finished products.
• Adjust dot gains and densities based on readings to align with proofs.
• Complete training on plate mounting, including understanding different mounting tapes and procedures.
• Collaborate with maintenance to understand operator-based maintenance requirements for the machines.
• Handle hazardous waste according to established training procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Shift Leader or Production Manager.

Qualifications:

• Prior experience in printing press operations is essential, specifically in:
  • Flexographic printing - film and/or paper
  • Multi-colored press operation
  • Web-fed printing machine operation
• Comprehensive knowledge of company printing protocols and quality standards is required.
• Technical understanding of inks, colors, and film properties is advantageous.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, artwork, and specification sheets is necessary.
• Familiarity with the operational capabilities of specific machines is required.
• Completion of Press Assistant levels I and II is mandatory.
• Technical training or equivalent apprenticeship of up to three years as an operator is necessary for proficiency in most job aspects.

At Sonoco Products Company, we provide a comprehensive total rewards package, which includes competitive compensation and benefits.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with various services.
• Paid time off and holidays to recharge and care for your health and family.
• A variety of company-paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans, including life, personal accident, and disability insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.

We are an equal opportunity employer and strictly prohibit discrimination against employees, applicants, or any other covered persons based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

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