OFFSET PRESS OPERATOR
#1705
General Characteristics:
An Offset Press Operator is responsible for producing a high volume of quality offset printing accurately to specifications on deadline; operates and maintains high volume presses; operates a camera to produce megalith printing plates; produces and strips negatives to make metal printing plates; does related work as required. Work requires well developed verbal skills to consult with and advise Printing/Graphics customers on technical details relating to preparing copy for printing, binding, paper type and timelines and to exchange technical information with staff, vendors and service technicians. Physical strength and agility are required to lift and carry boxes of paper. Running presses requires good visual acuity and eye-hand coordination. Working conditions include standing for long periods of time, frequent exposure to noise and exposure to hazardous chemicals and solvents.
Examples of Work:
Operates two offset presses to produce quality four-color and black and white printing; prints forms, stationery, envelopes, business cards, brochures, publications and posters; double checks accuracy of work orders; mixes printing ink to specifications; maintains a production log of all impressions produced on the presses.
Performs preventive maintenance on the presses or makes adjustments/repairs in consultation with service representatives; communicates technical problems to service reps and determines if they should be called in for repairs.
Operates graphic arts camera to produce megalith printing plates and negatives; maintains plate/processor portion of the camera; produces and strips negatives to make metal printing plates.
Operates computerized programmable paper cutter to cut paper for jobs to be printed on both presses; operates bindery equipment when required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of printing and graphics processes; knowledge of offset printing processes; knowledge of printing chemicals, inks and papers; good mechanical ability for making adjustments and repairs; ability to work quickly and accurately; ability to compute percentages, weights and measures; ability to work effectively under pressure; ability to see important detail in pictures and graphic materials; ability to strip and burn metal printing plates with accuracy; skill in working in a dark- room; ability to operate offset press, programmable paper cutter, graphic arts camera, platemaker, paper folder, collator, paper drill, binder, booklet maker, wire stitcher and silver recovery system; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to lift and carry boxes of paper weighing up to 55 pounds; ability to occasionally assist another person to lift and carry cartons of paper weighing up to 160 pounds; ability to stand for long periods of time; ability to work safely.
Supervision:
Reports to and works under the general supervision of the Printing/Graphics Manager. After an initial training period, work is performed independently according to printing/graphics policies and procedures. Work is reviewed by the supervisor through results obtained and customer satisfaction.
Supervision of others is not a normal responsibility of this position; however, this position may have responsibility to assign tasks, provide priorities, train and monitor the work of student assistants.
Minimum Qualifications:
An associate degree in graphics technology, visual communications, graphic communication or a related field is required. Two years of related offset press experience with the ability to run four-color work is required.
Equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered qualifying.
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